Working/Functional Title
Postdoctoral Research Scholar - Kobe Lab
Position Summary
The Department of Forestry at Michigan State University is seeking an outstanding Postdoctoral Scholar to lead or assist with all phases of research on a long-term project focused on temperate forest dynamics in response to climate change across gradients of soil moisture. Project focal areas include effects of climate on seed rain, seedling survivorship, mature tree growth and survival, and stand productivity. Data sets, some spanning 25+ years, include annual seedling establishment and survivorship; resource measurements in a subset of years (% canopy openness and soil nutrients); mapped forest stands; mature tree survivorship and growth; and local weather station data. The successful candidate is expected to author/co-author publications based on existing long-term data on seedling and tree dynamics and will manage data sets, analyze and interpret data in a modeling framework (preferably Bayesian), and assist in managing the project, including supervision of undergraduate assistants and overseeing summer field data collection in a national forest. The position holds the potential for extending research in new directions and to collaboratively pursue additional research funding. MSU’s strengths in quantitative ecological methods provide a collaborative environment that supports success. The position will begin as a one-year appointment with available extensions, depending on satisfactory performance and funding availability.
Desired start date is May/June 2026.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Degree
Doctorate -Statistics/Forestry/Ecology or related
Minimum Requirements
The successful candidate must have an earned PhD in Statistics, Forestry, Ecology or closely field, expertise in managing large and complex datasets, modeling experience using Bayesian and/or Maximum Likelihood approaches, strong coding skills in R and/or other programming languages; strong skills in written and verbal communication; and experience in managing personnel and projects.
Desired Qualifications
Preferred qualifications include documented ability to bring research projects to completion (peer-reviewed publication record), successful grant-writing skills, and evidence of effective independent and collaborative work.
Required Application Materials
Upload the following required documents: 1) a letter of interest detailing qualifications for the position and research interests, 2) curriculum vitae, and 3) a writing sample (preferably a journal article or dissertation chapter), and 4) a list of three professional references with contact information (institution, email address, phone number).
Special Instructions
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Review of Applications Begins On
03/02/2026
Remote Work Statement
MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.
Website
FOR.MSU.EDU
Department Statement
At MSU Forestry, our mission is to generate and translate knowledge of trees, forests and associated natural and human systems to advance sustainable solutions for people and ecosystems. We create the future of sustainable forestry through innovative research, learning and outreach. We agree with and support University initiatives that are designed to create a welcoming and safe collegiate community that includes a strong sense of belonging. We value the uniqueness that every person adds. Faculty and staff are committed to fostering open dialogue and supportive communication.
MSU Statement
Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.
