2-year Ross-Lynn Postdoctoral Fellowship in Human Behavioral Ecology, Evolution, and Data Science
Purdue University
Applications are now being accepted for a full-time Postdoctoral Fellow in Human Behavioral Ecology, Evolution, and Data Science at Purdue University’s Department of Anthropology. The position can begin as early as fall 2024, with the latest possible start date at the beginning of the spring 2025 semester.
Position Description
The Fellow will contribute to ongoing and new research projects in Human Behavioral Ecology and Evolution under the supervision of Dr. Erik Otárola-Castillo. Their full-time effort will be dedicated to actively formulating, analyzing, and testing scientific predictions. These activities will relate to the central goals of Otárola-Castillo’s laboratory research program on Paleoamerican Climate Change, Foraging Ecology, and Habitat Selection. This work consists of empirical methods (observational and controlled experiments) and theoretical modeling (mathematical, statistical, and computational).
The Fellow will work closely with Dr. Otárola-Castillo to submit several external grant proposals, contribute productively to journal publications, and present their research at professional conferences. They will contribute substantially to a high volume of upcoming publications and propose new projects where they will serve as the lead author. The Fellow will allocate their full-time effort to the following activities:
- Data generation (field and lab-based observation and experimentation), data modeling and analysis, and manuscript preparation for current laboratory projects (approximately 50-60%).
- External grant submissions for current and new laboratory projects (approximately 30-40%).
- Other professional development activities include presenting research at conferences, attending training and development workshops, and preparing for the academic job market (approximately 10%).
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Dr. Otárola-Castillo specializes in taphonomically oriented zooarchaeology and a wide range of advanced statistical and quantitative theoretical methods. These include mathematical and computational modeling, geometric morphometrics, multivariate and Bayesian statistics, spatiotemporal and spatial modeling (including GIS), causal inference, machine learning, AI, and statistical software development. A significant benefit of this position is the opportunity to learn and apply these innovative methodologies to various scientific research questions and contexts. While prior knowledge of these methods is advantageous, the position also offers mentorship and training for those eager to expand their methodological expertise and experience. This role provides a unique chance to develop skills under the guidance of an experienced professional, making it an excellent opportunity for professional growth.
By the end of the two-year appointment, a successful Ross-Lynn Fellow will have significantly advanced their career, adding several publications, research presentations, and external grant submissions to their professional portfolio. They will have cultivated their unique research trajectory with support from Dr. Otárola-Castillo and the Department of Anthropology at Purdue University, positioning themselves for further success in the field.
Qualifications
The Ross-Lynn Postdoctoral Fellow must have a Ph.D. in Anthropology, Archaeology, or a related field, such as Human Evolutionary Biology or Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology. The candidate should have research specialties in Human Behavioral Ecology, Evolutionary Archaeology, quantitative methods, data science, or similar areas. Highly motivated candidates with a strong track record of journal article publications, external funding, and experience in quantitative data analysis are especially encouraged to apply.
The position requires writing productively and skillfully in English, along with strong organizational and flexible time management skills. Candidates should be highly motivated and able to work independently to complete projects while being collaborative and aligned with the laboratory’s research objectives. Experience with statistical computing languages such as R or Python is preferred. Candidates should have strong interpersonal skills, work well in research teams, nurture a professional environment, and have a strong commitment to rigorous scientific hypothesis testing. The ideal candidate will thrive in an environment where ideas are rigorously debated and will demonstrate resilience and openness to having their ideas critically examined and challenged.
Candidates should be able to work in the U.S. without immigration sponsorship from Purdue University.
The Department, College, and University
The in-residence Postdoctoral position is based at Purdue’s West Lafayette campus in Indiana. Purdue is a rapidly growing leading research institution, member of the AAU, and public serving university with an active and collegial network of faculty, postdocs, and graduate students in residence. Anthropology Department members are active in publicly engaged scholarship and practice and collaborate with interdisciplinary programs and centers, including the Purdue Institute for Sustainability and the Advanced Methods at Purdue (AMAP). West Lafayette is an affordable, welcoming community with many opportunities for entertainment, dining, hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.
Benefits
The Postdoctoral Fellow will receive a full-time salary of $60,000 per 12-month fiscal year plus fringe benefits. The position is renewable for a second year. This benefits-eligible position includes access to office space, necessary research resources, and a small allowance for travel funds to present at conferences.
Application Process
Interested candidates are invited to submit a cover letter describing their interest in the position, highlighting their relevant skills, and discussing their potential contributions to fostering a climate that values scientific rigor. Applicants should include their curriculum vitae (CV) along with the cover letter. All materials should be submitted through the job application portal https://careers.purdue.edu/viewalljobs/ at Purdue University https://careers.purdue.edu/job/Ross-Lynn-Postdoctoral-Fellowship/33566-en_US/ .
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Letters of reference are not required at the time of application submission. Applications are accepted from August 15 through October 15, 2024, or until the position is filled. Applications received after October 15 might not be reviewed. The short-listed candidates will be invited to arrange for three letters of reference to be sent and participate in a video conference interview wherein the candidate will present their research portfolio and answer a set of standardized interview questions. A background check will be required for employment. Questions about the application process may be directed to Brenda Gunion (gunion@purdue.edu). Questions about the appointment should be directed to Dr. Otárola-Castillo (eoc@purdue.edu).
Purdue University is an EOE/Affirmative Action employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans, are encouraged to apply.