Research Scientist - Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior

Duties:
We seek a researcher with extensive experience in plant disease ecology, imaging spectroscopy, remote sensing, and machine and deep learning approaches to work in the detection of invasive diseases using spaceborne observations. We are interested in recruiting an individual with strong theoretical and modeling skills, with a strong background in using satellite data to construct predictive models that allow the early detection of tree diseases from space. The research scientist will be responsible for 1) managing (accessing and processing) Landsat and Sentinel-2 data, 2) developing predictive models for the early detection of tree diseases, and 3) writing manuscripts to communicate the results.

Percentage breakdown of duties:
* 60% Conduct time series analysis of land surface phenology (LSP) based on Landsat and Sentinel-2 imagery. Develop and test predictive models of disease detection.
* 35% Contribute to manuscript preparation and reports.
* 5% Other duties, including preparing and delivering presentations, conducting outreach with the public.

Required Qualifications:
* Ph.D. in biodiversity informatics, remote sensing of biodiversity, or related fields, and a strong background in implementing advanced machine learning and deep learning approaches, spatial statistics, and experience in quantitative ecology and applied statistics.
* Analytical and programming skills commensurate with Ph.D. level training.
* Demonstrated ability to conceptualize, write, and publish high-quality scientific work.

Preferred Qualifications:
* Experience working with large data sets (Big data).
* Experience with Python, Julia, R, C++, and/or other programming languages.
* Experience with machine and deep learning modeling approaches and developing Bayesian models.
* Multidisciplinary skills to bridge fields such as plant disease ecology, remote sensing data, and geospatial statistics.
* Respect for and sensitivity to diverse cultures, identities, and backgrounds in the workplace.

Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior (EEB) faculty teach undergraduate classes, advise graduate students, and conduct research in the areas of ecology, evolution, and behavior. Check out the Faculty and research section to learn more about them and their intriguing research interests.

EEB is part of the College of Biological Sciences at the University of Minnesota and is one of the University's most highly-ranked units. The department is located in the Ecology Building on the St. Paul campus, but also has two major field stations where students and faculty conduct field research. Many of the research collections of the Bell Museum are also located in the Ecology Building, and the department is an affiliated department of the St. Anthony Falls Laboratory.

Pay Range: $61,008 to $71,000/annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment Category: 75%-100% Appointment (If job description above does not specify appointment or expected weekly hours, assume a 100% appointment.)

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

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