Post Doctoral Researcher, January 2021

The Goldsmith lab in Schmid College of Science and Technology at Chapman University, Orange, CA, seeks a postdoctoral research associate to join a USDA-funded project with flexible proposed start date in January 2021. Applicants must currently possess a valid authorization to work in the United States.

The project is designed to understand the role of stem photosynthesis on physiological performance of avocado varieties in southern California. The main objective of the project is to determine the link between stem photosynthesis and drought tolerance in avocado by understanding the mechanistic link between stem photosynthesis and both water-use efficiency and hydraulic conductivity. The project is split in two phases: 1) phase one includes an ecophysiological survey of avocado cultivars at South Coast Research and Extension Center that seeks to establish the link between stem photosynthetic rate and water-use efficiency; 2) phase two involves a greenhouse experiment where we will modify rates of stem photosynthesis (by differential shading) and determine the effects on hydraulic functioning. There is flexibility to drive the project in new and interesting directions. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to mentor undergraduate students in support of the project.

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. Our faculty include academic leaders who excel in research, publishing and world-class teaching in our 11 schools and colleges, including Schmid College of Science and Technology. Schmid College of Science and Technology embodies Chapman’s mission of providing students with personalized educational experiences by fostering an outstanding community of teacher-scholars across a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Schmid College’s new 140,000 foot home, the Keck Center for Science and Engineering, features state-of-the-art laboratories, teaching spaces, and student collaboration areas. More information on Schmid College of Science and Technology can be found at www.chapman.edu/science. The Goldsmith lab is housed in the brand-new Keck Center for Science and Engineering and benefits from access to significant resources for carrying out cutting-edge field, greenhouse, and lab experiments. We strive for an equitable, inclusive, and welcoming community. All students and postdoctoral scientists develop individual development plans. More information on the lab can be found at www.gregrgoldsmith.com. 

The University is dedicated to enhancing diversity and inclusion in all aspects of recruitment and employment. More information on diversity and inclusion at Chapman University is available at https://www.chapman.edu/diversity. 

Required qualifications: PhD in plant biology, horticulture, crop science, ecology or similar relevant fields with knowledge of plant ecophysiology. The research involves work in hot and dry conditions during the summer. A valid driver’s license is required.

The successful candidate will work in collaboration with Dr. Gregory Goldsmith, Dr. Eleinis Avila Lovera from the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Research Scientist Dr. Mary Lu Arpaia from the University of California, Riverside, as well as with specialists from the South Coast Research and Extension Center in nearby Irvine. Funding is secured for 18 months, with possibility of extension. The successful candidate must be willing to relocate to the area in order to complete the field work. We are deeply committed to health and safety given the circumstances of COVID-19.

To apply, please provide a letter of interest, a CV, employment application, and a list of three professional contacts sent to:

Dr. Goldsmith and Dr. Avila-Lovera at
avilalovera@chapman.edu and goldsmith@chapman.edu.

Applicants must currently possess a valid authorization to work in the United States through the duration of the contract period.

Successful completion of a background check is required for the final candidate.

Chapman University is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic global community. The University is dedicated to enhancing diversity and inclusion in all aspects of recruitment and employment. All qualified applicants 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. The University is committed to achieving a diverse faculty and staff and encourages members of underrepresented groups to apply.

Chapman University, One University Drive, Orange, CA 92866 Human Resources Department