The O’Connell Research Group in the Schmid College of Science and Technology of Chapman University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow position in Ecosystem Ecology and Global Change Science effective December 2026.
This postdoctoral position is available beginning December 2026 for one individual to join Dr. O’Connell’s research group to investigate the ecological impacts of global change, with a focus on biogeochemical cycles and ecosystem science in wet tropical forests. The position offers the opportunity to collaborate with an NSF long-term ecological research (LTER) location (Puerto Rico’s Luquillo LTER) and data synthesis work on biogeochemistry data from drought, warming and/or hurricane experiments carried out in the Luquillo LTER.
Chapman University is a nationally-ranked institution offering traditional undergraduate and graduate programs in the heart of Orange County, one of Southern California’s most diverse and vibrant regions. The University achieved R2 status in the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, a distinction held by just 10 percent of all U.S. universities and is ranked #100 among Best National Universities by US News and World Report (2027). Our faculty include academic leaders who excel in research, publishing, and world-class teaching in our 11 schools and colleges, including the Schmid College of Science and Technology. Dedicated to forward-looking, personalized education, we create an environment for unlimited achievement by both our students and faculty. More information about Chapman University is available at www.chapman.edu.
Responsibilities
We are seeking a passionate individual eager to broaden their expertise in ecosystem ecology, global change science, and data synthesis. The postdoctoral researcher in this role will have the opportunity to:
- Support the synthesis and publication of biogeochemistry data from drought, warming, and/or hurricane experiments conducted at the Luquillo Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) site in Puerto Rico.
- Apply time series and forecasting models to assess the effects of global change on carbon and nitrogen cycling, with a focus on understanding shifts in variability and resilience.
- Conduct biogeochemical lab experiments and contribute to building lab systems and structures in the O'Connell lab space in the Keck Center for Science and Engineering.
- Mentor undergraduate researchers, engage in professional development activities, and participate in grant writing and teaching if desired.
The postdoctoral researcher will conduct independent research and/or collaborate with ongoing lab projects, provide guidance and support to undergraduate students associated with the related projects, and document research activities and publish key findings in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals. We are especially interested in candidates who thrive in collaborative environments and value inclusive mentorship.
Qualifications
- A PhD awarded in the last five years, with preference given to candidates with a degree in ecology, environmental science, earth science, soil science, biogeochemistry or related field.
- Demonstrated experience in ecosystem science data analysis, biogeochemical research, remote sensing applications, and/or time series modeling.
- Demonstrated experience in lab-based biogeochemical techniques.
- Skills in R, Python, or other relevant programming languages for ecological data analysis and modeling.
- (Preferred) An ability to work both collaboratively and autonomously, mentoring students of various levels.
Application Instructions
Interested applicants should submit the following documents via Interfolio:
- Cover letter describing interest in the position and relevant experience
- Curriculum Vitae
- Contact information for 3 references (reference letters not required at the time of application)
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Please address any questions to Dr. Christine Sierra O’Connell (coconn@chapman.edu).
This assignment is set to begin on December 1, 2026. Successful completion of a background check is required for the final candidate. This position is subject to final budget approval. The salary for this Postdoctoral Research Fellow position is $73,000.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Chapman University is an equal opportunity employer that provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of their protected characteristics. All qualified applicants and employees are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.
