Postdoctoral Position in Remote Sensing for Animal and Ecosystem Ecology across African Savannas and Tropical Forests in Cambridge, Massachusetts at Harvard University

We seek a postdoctoral fellow to work with Professor Andrew Davies at Harvard University to apply high-resolution remote sensing to a broad range of ecological questions focused primarily on how animals shape landscape and contribute to Earth system models (e.g., nutrient cycling and methane flux) in African savannas and tropical forests. The research will combine high-resolution airborne Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) with animal and plant field data of various kinds (e.g., field surveys, camera traps, GPS telemetry, herbivore exclosure experiments) to uncover patterns and mechanisms of animal influences on ecosystem properties and functioning. The postdoctoral researcher will play a leading role in this research, working closely with Professor Davies, and be expected to originate project ideas and use existing data to perform a wide variety of studies. The successful candidate will also be expected to provide remote sensing support to other postdoctoral researchers, graduate students and undergraduates within the Davies Lab and collaborating groups, providing opportunities for extensive mentorship and collaboration. The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of annual renewal contingent upon satisfactory performance, continued funding, research needs, and required approvals. The start date is flexible but ideally early in 2027.

Candidates must have a PhD in ecology, environmental science, remote sensing, or a related field by the time of appointment.

The ideal candidate will have experience using airborne or satellite remote-sensing data in animal, plant, or ecosystem ecology; proficiency in R or Python; experience with geospatial software such as QGIS, ArcGIS, or Google Earth Engine; and a strong record of relevant publications and conference presentations.

Candidates should upload a curriculum vitae, a 2-page statement outlining their research interests, experience and vision for the kinds of projects they would be excited to lead in this role, and a brief cover letter that includes the names and contact information of at least three references.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled

Professor Andrew Davies

$67,600-$80,000

Pay offered to the selected candidate is dependent on factors such as years of experience, training or qualification, field of scholarship, and accomplishments in the field.