Post-Doctoral Research Associate: Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology - UTK

Knoxville, TN, United States (On-site)

Job Description

The Budke Lab in the Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at the University of Tennessee (http://jmbudke.github.io/) is seeking a Post-Doctoral Research Associate to work on an NSF-funded project. This project is investigating morphological evolution in a phylogenetic context using moss plants as the experimental system. 

Responsibilities

The research responsibilities will include 

• Assembling morphological datasets using the literature and herbarium specimens

• Compiling DNA sequence datasets from publicly available resources and laboratory-based methods using herbarium specimens

• Combining these data to analyze the evolution of morphological structures across a phylogeny

Opportunities will also be available to develop novel research questions focusing on the functional morphology, physiology, and evolution of the parent-offspring relationship in mosses. Supervising and mentoring undergraduate researchers in both the laboratory and herbarium will be required. An additional aim of this project is to build awareness of and appreciation for plants and botanical natural history collections. As part of the team, the postdoc will participate in hands-on outreach events, such as Darwin Day. The postdoc will also co-lead a May-term course for undergraduate students on collections-based research.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• A PhD in biology, ecology and evolution, systematics, or a related field. 

• Research experience in molecular systematics and plant morphology.

• Proficiency using bioinformatic tools to infer phylogenetic trees and perform comparative analyses.

• A strong work ethic with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• The ability to bring projects to completion, demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals.

• Motivation to engage in botanical outreach and education.

Compensation and Benefits:

The starting salary range for this position is $50,000 – $60,000, depending on experience and qualifications,  per year with annual increases contingent on performance. Full health and retirement benefits are included.

Find more information on UT Benefits here

Timeline and How to Apply 

Review of applications will begin on August 18, 2025,  and will continue until the position is filled. The initial appointment is for one year with funding available to extend up to two years, contingent on performance.

Please include the following items in a single PDF document with the online application: 

• Cover letter (include expected completion date of PhD, if appropriate)

• CV

• Contact information for three references.

About The Department:

The Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology values the quality of life of all its members, and we are committed to recruiting and retaining a varied community of scientific researchers and to supporting the intercultural goals of the University. Knoxville, Tennessee is an exciting city that has undergone a vibrant civic revitalization over the past several years and is recognized as one of the most exciting up-and-coming regions in the country, yet it remains a reasonably affordable city for the United States. Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville offers a broad spectrum of educational, recreational, and cultural opportunities.

About Us

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees—the Volunteers—who uphold the university’s tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service. 

UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee’s flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy’s largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory. 

The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.  

UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices that attract and retain a diverse community and that support a culture where everyone matters and belongs.  

The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as “Best Employer for New Graduates,” “One of America’s Best Large Employers,” and “Best Workplace for Women,” and has been designated as “Best Place for Working Parents” by Forbes Magazine.  

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!

Augustin-Pyramus de Candolle 2026 Prize

The Société de Physique et d'Histoire naturelle (SPHN) of Geneva is pleased to announce the award of the Augustin-Pyramus de Candolle Prize in 2026. This prize recognizes the author of the best taxonomic treatment of a plant group (angiosperms, gymnosperms, bryophytes and green algae), as well as fungi and lichens. The purpose of the prize is to encourage and foster the publication of monographic treatments in plant taxonomy, preferably by scientists still at an early stage of their career.

The submitted work should be a complete coverage of the treated group, namely its arrangement in a system of hierarchical classification. It should follow an integrated taxonomic approach, including descriptions of morphological and anatomical characters, physiology, chemistry, ecology and molecular phylogenetics. Complete bibliography, critical synonymy and identification keys are required. The work should comply with the International Code of Nomenclature (2024 – Madrid Code).

The work may consist of a single monograph or of a series of peer-reviewed papers on the same group. In this case, the candidate must be the first author of the phylogeny and taxonomy sections. Submitted works should be unpublished or published after October 31st, 2022.

The prize is open to researchers of all nationalities. The text, however, must be written in French, English, Spanish or Portuguese. A summary of the monograph, of no more than 4000 words, must be written in English or French.

The work should be submitted to the Secretary of the prize, along with its summary and the author's curriculum vitae, before Friday October 31st, 2025, as electronic files uploaded at the following address fred.stauffer@geneve.ch, using the website: https://www.swisstransfer.com/fr-fr or as printed documents (two copies) sent to the following address:

Dr. Fred Stauffer
Prix Augustin-Pyramus de Candolle
Conservatoire et Jardin botaniques de Genève
Case postale 71
CH-1292 Chambésy, Suisse

The 2026 de Candolle Prize of CHF 5'000 will be awarded in Geneva during early 2026, in the presence of the winner, invited by the SPHN to attend the ceremony. The Prize will not be awarded if the proposals are regarded as insufficient or do not comply with the conditions of this announcement.

For more details, please contact the Prize Secretary Dr. Fred Stauffer. For further information on the history of the Prize: https://www.unige.ch/sphn/Prixetbourses/

Research Scientist - Gainesville, FL

This is a highly professional position responsible for directing the service and research activities of the Botany Section, including the Division of Plant Industry Herbarium, in support of the plant and plant pest regulatory responsibilities of the Division of Plant Industry.

The incumbent spends majority of their time communicating with, motivating, providing, or coordinating training, and directing the work of subordinates. In addition, the incumbent must complete timely performance appraisals, develop accurate work plans, and timely approve attendance and leave for each subordinate. Incumbent has the authority to make recommendations for special pay increases, reclassifications, hiring, and disciplinary actions, when appropriate.

Provides expert identification and classification of plant specimens to genus and species, or the lowest taxonomic unit possible using taxonomic keys, herbarium specimens and other scientific methods of identification.  Researches plant species for various projects and surveys of the bureau.  Reviews pertinent scientific literature on plants. Prepares and writes peer-reviewed, scientific taxonomic publications based upon data compiled from identifications, classifications and systematic studies. This position also serves as a member of the Division’s Publication Review Committee which reviews all division publications, including manuscripts and lists of plant names (scientific and common) for accuracy, synonymy and author names.
Reviews applications for collecting/harvesting prohibited noxious weeds and protected aquatic, endangered or commercially exploited plants and nominating species for protected or prohibited status. Reviews federal permit applications relating to Florida.

Coordinates the DPI Herbarium Program, including supervising the collecting, mounting and labeling of plant specimens for the herbarium and seed collection.
Provides botanical training to plant protection specialists and clubs or interest groups through training classes, workshops, seminars and lectures.
 

Performs other related duties as required. For complete details, follow the link below.

RESEARCH SCIENTIST – SES - 42001257, assigned to BOTANY and headquartered in Gainesville, Florida.  This announcement is for ALL QUALIFIED CANDIDATES. Questions may be directed to Dr. Patti Anderson by calling (352) 395-4701 or emailing Patti.Anderson@FDACS.gov.    

Apply here: 42001257

Director of BRIT Press

The Director of BRIT Press will manage the Botanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT) Press. This position is responsible for the preparation, manufacture, and distribution of botanical research and scientific discoveries. This will include overseeing operations, scientific editing, and publishing plant systematics, floristics, ecology, and conservation research. The Director interacts with publication authors, BRIT Press supporters, and departments across the Fort Worth Botanic Garden (FWBG), including Marketing and Communications, Research and Conservation, Learning and Engagement, and Advancement.

Key Responsibilities:

Accountability
1. Maintaining innovation and excellence in scientific publications
2. Coordinating and directing scientific editing, peer review, and dissemination of botanical information to scientists, educators, and the general public through publication of the periodical BRIT Journal, books, and other publications
3. Setting editorial policy and developing proposals, budgets, and schedules for publications
4. Working with fulfillment staff on the development, marketing, and sales of publications

People Management/Interactions
1. Communicating and collaborating with the BRIT Press Editorial Advisory Board
2. Supervising, developing, and effectively supporting the Press Sales and Fulfillment Coordinator
3. Supporting the Librarian when relevant to Press projects

Communication
1. Connecting with colleagues, libraries, the systematic botanical community, and the general public about BRIT Press activities and publications
2. Exhibiting professionalism with authors, reviewers, graphic designers, and printers
3. Fostering goodwill and generosity with subscribers and supporters

Qualifications

Competencies: Knowledge and Skills required:
1. Competence with editing and publishing in both print and digital media
2. Knowledgeable in science, botany, taxonomy, and the publishing world
3. Familiarity with online taxonomic and library resources
4. Proficiency using Microsoft Office programs and databases
5. Maintenance of focus and character under the pressure of deadlines
6. Knowledgeable in database management and digital publishing with Open Journal Systems

Additional Job Requirements:
1. Be adaptable and flexible to changing schedules including weekends and evenings in support of FWBG public events.
2. Occasional travel for professional development, networking, and industry conferences.

Reasonable accommodation can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the job

Assistant or Associate Curator, Mycology or Cryptogamic Botany

Position Summary:

The New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) is seeking an outstanding Mycologist or Cryptogamic Botanist for a career-track appointment in the Center for Biodiversity and Evolution. We seek candidates who are innovative and collaborative, eager to advance nature-based solutions to contemporary challenges. The successful candidate will develop an innovative collections-based and laboratory research program focused on important issues in biodiversity science, supported by extramural funding from federal and private sources. They will also use diverse data (emphasizing but not limited to systematic and floristic data) in creative ways for conservation and nature-based solutions.

The new hire will join a growing interdisciplinary research and scholarship team at NYBG to build fundamental and applied knowledge that contributes to developing solutions-oriented approaches to biodiversity and conservation, climate change mitigation, climate and community resilience, and/or food security. This position will help NYBG meet its strategic goals to increase faculty diversity and grow the impact of NYBG research locally, nationally, and internationally.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities:

● Build an integrative/collaborative/synergistic research program and develop new partnerships both within and outside of NYBG.
● Attract extramural funding and produce a substantial body of publications.
● Develop a strong and innovative research program that leverages one or more of NYBG’s collections, which include the Steere Herbarium, Mertz Library, economic botany collections, facilities and collections of the Pfizer Laboratory, digital assets, and extensive living collections.
● Engage fully in service to NYBG’s Science programs, the institution, including Horticulture and Education, and the broader scientific community, as well as the general public.
● Enhance NYBG’s role in education and communication by advising graduate students, mentoring interns and/or postdoctoral fellows, teaching graduate-level courses, and/or participating on the editorial team of one of our impactful journals.
● Advance NYBG’s strategic objectives: Environmental Action, Bronx-Forward, Power of Place, Digital Impact, Management Excellence.

Qualifications:
● PhD in Botany, Biology, Evolutionary Biology, Mycology, or a related field.
● Preferred two or more years of postdoctoral experience.
● The rank of Associate Curator is appropriate for candidates who have developed a national reputation in their research field and are coming from a parallel rank at a research institution or university (e.g., Associate Professor).
● Strong publication record.
● Evidence of potential or current success in securing external funding to support research.
● A taxonomic focus on a large fungal or plant group or ecosystem type (e.g. urban ecology) will be an asset, as will the ability to identify species across a broad range of genera and families of fungi or plants.
● Strong quantitative skills in an area such as genomics, data science, modeling, GIS, phylogenetic analysis, or computer programming.
● Ability to contribute to a collegial environment and a dedication to professional service.
● Demonstrated ability to communicate science effectively to multiple constituencies.
● Preference for candidates with experience successfully teaching and mentoring students.
● Demonstrated experience in fostering an inclusive environment, working with people from diverse backgrounds, and incorporating diverse and innovative perspectives in research.
● Willingness and ability to develop collaborative research with NYBG’s existing science staff.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:
• This position will require work in an office environment, with extended periods sitting or standing at a desk, using a computer, and attending meetings virtually and in person with other people.
• Travel is required, both within the United States and internationally.
• Fieldwork may be an important component of this position, requiring work in diverse and potentially remote outdoor environments, sometimes under challenging conditions.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.


Baseline Work Schedule:
35-hour work week; some extended hours based on deliverables may be required. Generally, work hours are Monday - Friday 9 to 5 with evening, weekend, and holiday work as needed. NYBG’s hybrid work policy applies to this exempt position. The primary work location is at the New York Botanical Garden.


Benefits:
• 15 Vacation Days
• 13 Paid Holidays
• 12 Sick Days
• Health and Dental Insurance Coverage
• 401K
• Pension Plan

Please submit:
1. A cover letter (up to two pages) that briefly summarizes the following:
● The candidate’s research agenda, expertise and goals, and how these would advance the research vision of NYBG science in developing nature and biodiversity based solutions to 21st Century problems.
● The candidate’s interest or experience in conducting collaborative, applied, interdisciplinary research.
● A summary of leadership potential through existing or proposed research, teaching, service, community engagement, outreach, contributions to equity, diversity and inclusion, or other relevant activities.
2. Curriculum vitae with links to significant publications.
3. A statement (up to two pages) describing the current and proposed research program, and connections with solutions to the biodiversity and climate crisis. This statement should also include how the applicant would leverage and build the collections at NYBG and ideas for how to interact synergistically with current NYBG Curators and/or how to leverage current and future collaborations with national and international agencies to grow the impacts of NYBG science.
4. A statement (up to one page) of education and engagement that may include teaching philosophy, interests and accomplishments, graduate student training, workshops for environmental professionals, public education and lectures, or scientific exhibition content.
5. Up to three representative publications or accepted manuscripts.
6. Names and contact information for three references.

If you have specific questions about the application process, please contact Kelly Coale at kcoale@nybg.org.

Application Deadline: To ensure optimal consideration, all application materials must be received by March 31, 2025, although the position will remain open until filled.

The anticipated starting date for position is July 1, 2025, or soon thereafter depending on immigration and travel restrictions. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.