Beca Posdoctoral: North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

Although housed at NCSU, The Brimley Research Scholar will work with the director of the newly constructed Paleontology & Geology Research Laboratory (PGL) at the Nature Research Center (NRC), North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (NCMNS).

 It is the responsibility of this position to collaborate with the PGL director to: 1) conduct and disseminate original research in paleontology, geology, or deep time evolutionary biology; 2) write grants to support research and extension; and 3) undertake informal science education activities as part of the daily routine.

Doctoral degree from a recognized college or university with a major in biology, geology, or a related specialty. Candidate must have a proven record of research and publication. Field experience and experience with science education outreach and technologies for disseminating information to the public preferred.

Position is for two years (11 months/year). Salary is $35,200. We are unable to offer benefits at this time. Cost of living in the Raleigh area is quite reasonable.

Expanded description:

The NCMNS is the largest natural history museum in the southwestern US, with an annual visitorship exceeding one million, and remains free to the public, transcending socio-economic barriers and encouraging diverse audiences. The new wing—the NRC—is an 80,000 square foot innovative, LEED certified Green Building housing five state-of-the-art research laboratories (Genetics & Microbiology, Space Observation, Biodiversity & Earth Observation, Paleontology & Geology, and Instrumentation) in which scientific staff advance their research in front of public audiences. The NRC offers interactive and experiential learning opportunities for visitors of all ages including hands-on laboratories, Meet-the-Scientist areas, high-tech and dynamic presentation spaces, media productions and interactive exhibits that interpret cutting-edge research that affects the daily lives of visitors. The mission of the NRC is to bring scientists, educators, and technology gurus together to share inspiring science with the public.  The Brimley Research Scholar within the Paleontology & Geology Research Laboratory will be provided the exceptional opportunity to develop as a researcher within an institution dedicated to defining the future of public science communication.  NCMNS paleontological collections strengths include Triassic and Cretaceous vertebrate faunas from North Carolina and across the US.

Interested applicants should send a cover letter detailing their goals for research and extension at the NRC (including a brief project proposal), and a CV. Anticipated start date August 1st, 2013. Position open until filled. https://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/21384

Contact lindsay.zanno@naturalsciences.org with any questions.