Job Title

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Biological Sciences

Agency

Tarleton State University

Department

Biological Sciences

Proposed Minimum Salary

$5,000.00 monthly

Job Location

Stephenville, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Tarleton State University, a distinguished Doctoral National Comprehensive University, invites applications for the position of Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Department of Biological Sciences. As part of a vibrant academic community dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and service, this role offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a university that values innovation, collaboration, and inclusive growth. Join us in advancing knowledge and transforming lives—on campus and beyond. Tarleton State University continues to grow its impact across Texas, with four distinct campuses located in Stephenville, Fort Worth, RELLIS-Bryan and Waco, along with a robust online community that extends our reach even further.

At the heart of it all is Stephenville, where Tarleton State offers a dynamic environment for faculty and staff. From a lively live music scene and numerous local festivals to rich traditions rooted in the surrounding community, Stephenville provides a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

No matter where you're located—on campus or online—you are part of a mission that transforms lives and makes a difference across the state of Texas and beyond.

Overview:

The Postdoctoral Research Scholar contributes to research efforts in quantitative ecology, meta-analysis, and statistics, with a focus on the adaptation of native plants to global change drivers, particularly invasive species. The scholar engages in large-scale data synthesis projects and collaborates on field research. The hosting laboratory investigates evolutionary and functional ecology of plants from both basic and applied perspectives. Research outcomes will enhance understanding of contemporary plant adaptation in the context of global environmental change.

Appointment Details:
This is a full-time, non-faculty research staff position based on the University's main campus in Stephenville, Texas. The appointment is renewable annually, contingent upon mutual agreement, satisfactory performance review, and continued funding availability, with a maximum duration of two years. Standard working hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, or as required by project needs. The position also serves as a Campus Security Authority (CSA).

Responsibilities:

Conduct meta-analytical research on the position’s goals.
Collaborate with Dr. Gianoli, or designee, in preparing grant proposals.
Assist Dr. Gianoli, or designee, and students of his team in field research projects.
Present research results in regional and national scientific meetings or conferences.
Establish collaborative links with other researchers on plant ecology and evolution, both in the US and abroad.

Minimum Qualifications:

Conferred PhD in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Plant Sciences, or related fields.
Demonstrated experience with large-scale data synthesis projects and publications.
Proven ability to carry out original research independently, from design to publication.
Experience with statistical and modeling tools used in meta-analytical studies.

The successful candidate will have earned a PhD no more than 5 years before the start of the financial support; and will be able to begin employment at Tarleton State University by January 2026.

The selected candidate must be able to meet eligibility requirements for work in the United States at the time appointment is scheduled to begin and continue working legally for the proposed term of employment, be able to communicate effectively in English, and be trained in or able to obtain training in the responsible and ethical conduct of research.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Ability to communicate clearly and accurately by oral and written means.
Ability to lead data synthesis and field research projects.
A record of first authorship on peer-reviewed publications and presentations.
Outstanding proactivity, organization, and responsibility.

Preferred Qualifications:

Research grants awarded as PI.
Student mentoring experience.
Teaching experience as lecturer.
Experience with diverse research and cultural settings.

Application Procedure:

During the application process applicants have one opportunity to enter the requested information, upload documents, and Submit the application. Applicants will not be able to make changes or add additional documents once the application materials have been submitted via the "Submit" action.

Employment applications must include (required):

Completed online application
Cover Letter/Letter of Interest addressing qualifications
Curriculum Vitae or Resume
At least 3 current professional references and their full contact information
Unofficial transcripts

Applications received by Tarleton State University must have all job application data entered. Failure to provide all job application data could result in an invalid submission and a rejected application. "See resume" is not an acceptable entry in the job application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. The first round of application reviews will begin November 24, 2025, and continue until the position is filled. Anticipated start date is January 2026.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.