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Postdoctoral Researcher at Emory University, Department of Environmental Sciences

The FACES Research Group at Emory University is recruiting a Postdoctoral Researcher to join an interdisciplinary and trans-institutional USDA-funded project led by the Rodale Institute that is quantifying the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase carbon sequestration on Southeastern vegetable farms. The Postdoctoral Researcher will work closely with Dr. Emily Burchfield to understand the scalability of sequestration benefits across the Southern Piedmont region and to assess the future suitability of the cropping systems proposed by our team.

The successful candidate will contribute to research in the following areas:

• Predictive modeling of future agricultural land use.
• Assessment of the scalability of climate-smart vegetable production across the Southern Piedmont.
• Integration of quantitative and qualitative data to understand barriers and bridges to adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices on Southeastern vegetable farms.
• Identification of transition pathways towards climate-smart vegetable production in the Southeastern U.S.

Qualifications

• Applicants must have a Ph.D. by the start date. Interdisciplinary backgrounds are encouraged, but candidates should have significant research experience at the intersections of agricultural systems and data science.
• Experience working with large geospatial datasets, particularly those that integrate social and environmental data.
• Demonstrated programming and statistical skills.
• Familiarity with agricultural systems in the U.S. Experience actively engaging with agricultural stakeholders is a plus.
• While no teaching is required, interest in mentoring talented undergraduates and developing innovative pedagogy at a leading liberal arts institution is encouraged.
• Ability to conduct high-impact independent and collaborative research.
• Excellent English language writing and communication.

Start date: August 1, 2025
Term: 1 year 1.00 FTE, renewable based on performance
Location: Atlanta, GA

Duration: The position will last one year, renewable for at least one additional year contingent on satisfactory progress.

Institution: Department of Environmental Sciences, Emory University

About the FACES Lab

We study the interactions between Food, Agriculture, Climate, and Environment to support Sustainability (FACES). We believe that significant agricultural adaptation to climate change will be necessary and inevitable. We believe in leveraging this moment of necessary change to transition our agricultural systems towards more resilient, just, and sustainable futures. Our work integrates “big” geospatial data with “deep” qualitative and survey data to understand and support agricultural system transition at multiple scales.

To Apply

• A cover letter describing interests and skills related to the job description. Please be specific and speak to any experience you have in (1) ML/predictive modeling, (2) geospatial analysis and programming (share links to code), (3) work in US food/agricultural systems, and (4) participatory work with and for stakeholders.
• A CV.
• A writing sample, ideally a journal publication relevant to this search.
• The contact information for three references. We will contact references for finalists selected for interviews.
• All materials can be submitted at https://faculty-emory.icims.com/jobs/123794/post-doctoral-fellow---department-of-environmental-sciences/job

Evaluation of applications will begin on February 21, 2025 and will be rolling after that. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

JOB DESCRIPTION: Helps design and conduct research within a specified field while receiving advanced training from a designated Principal Investigator to enhance professional skills and research independence needed for pursuit of a career. The specific area of research in which the trainee is mentored is determined by the department and laboratory of the Postdoc. Designs and evaluates experiments. Develops new ideas that promote current research. Prepares and publishes scientific manuscripts under the direction of the Principal Investigator. May be responsible for operation of specific equipment. May teach techniques to others, train, and supervise research staff. Positions are temporary appointments as a research trainee. The initial appointment is for one year, renewal expected if progress is satisfactory and funds are available. Appointments cannot exceed five years.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: A doctoral degree or equivalent (Ph.D., M.D., ScD., D.V.M., DDS etc) in an appropriate field. Excellent scientific writing ability and strong oral communication skills. The ability to work effectively and collegially with colleagues. Additional qualifications as specified by the Principal Investigator.

Emory University is dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, genetic information, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and veteran's status. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment on the basis of any factor stated above or prohibited under applicable law. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in University programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Executive Order 11246, as amended, Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action. Emory University is committed to achieving a diverse workforce through application of its affirmative action, equal opportunity and nondiscrimination policy in all aspects of employment including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Inclusion, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322.

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