Abbott Lab: Post Doctoral Scholar

Description: Karen Abbott, Alan Hastings, Jon Machta, and Yufang Jin are seeking a postdoc to work on problems at the interface between statistical physics and theoretical spatial ecology. This position will be supported by our NSF grant, eMB: New mathematical approaches for understanding spatial synchrony in ecology. The project will involve developing extensions of foundational theories from statistical physics, mechanistic spatial modeling of ecological dynamics, machine learning from remotely sensed data, and understanding the limits of prediction. The position will be based in the Abbott lab at Case Western Reserve University and there will be opportunities to spend time both at the University of Massachusetts Amherst (Machta) and the University of California Davis (Hastings & Jin). Under the guidance of the PIs, the postdoc will develop and analyze models inspired by statistical physics to describe the dynamics of spatially coupled oscillating ecological systems. The start date is July 1, 2026 for an initial term will be 1 year. The annual starting base salary range for this position is $55,000-$65,652. CWRU considers factors such as (but not limited to) the specific grant funding and the terms of the research grant when extending an offer. Postdocs receive individual and family healthcare benefits, life insurance, and employee assistance.

Qualifications: Ph. D. in ecology or a related field. Research experience and expertise in spatial ecology, statistical physics, or both. Experience writing, optimizing, running, and analyzing complex computational models. Excellent communication and collaboration skills. In compliance with the City of Cleveland’s Pay Transparency Ordinance (effective October 27, 2025), the annual starting base salary range for this position is $55,000 - $62,652. Postdocs receive individual and family healthcare benefits, life insurance, and employee assistance. Case Western Reserve University is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are protected under federal and state laws and university policy from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, protected veteran status, disability, age and genetic information. Reasonable Accommodation Statement: Case Western Reserve University complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act regarding reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the Office of Equity by phone at 216.368.3066 or by email atequity@case.edu. Determinations as to granting reasonable accommodations for any applicant will be made on a case-by-case basis.