Position Announcement

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Crop Modeling and Crop Physiology

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL USA


Specialties: Crop Modeling and Crop Physiology

Application Instructions: Applicants should submit a letter of interest, a complete CV, and the name, address, e-mail address, and telephone number of at least three referees. Send application package to Dr. James W. Jones ([log in to unmask]) indicating "PD Crop Model-Physiology" in the subject line. Applications will be received until a suitable candidate is found.

Position Description:
A postdoctoral research associate position is available from January 15, 2011 in the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering at the University of Florida. The research project will focus on evaluating and improving crop models for climate change impact and adaptation studies. Emphasis will be on crop and water balance responses to extreme temperatures, elevated atmospheric CO2, water deficit and interactions of these. The goal will be to identify shortcomings in crop models in representing climate change impact and in developing new physiological-based algorithms to improve model performance under climate change conditions. This is part of an international, multi-institutional and interdisciplinary project sponsored by the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering at the University of Florida.

Experience with crop modeling, crop physiology, parameter optimization, and knowledge of programming are required. Experience in either wheat, maize or cotton crop physiology is highly desirable. The incumbent is expected to have excellent oral and written communication skills, and the ability to work well in a collaborative research environment with a multi-disciplinary team. The incumbent will be expected to handle the coordination of data collection and processing, crop modeling, and experimental activities. A minimum commitment of 2 years is expected, however duration of employment will depend on performance. Salary will be commensurate with experience and demonstrated abilities.