Job Description

This is a full time, exempt, fully benefitted position. The starting salary is $74,263 and will be commensurate on experience.

Position summary

Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher in stream and watershed biogeochemistry. The postdoc will collaborate on an NSF-funded project exploring the role of aquatic bryophytes in structuring biogeochemical cycles in headwater streams and stream networks. This project uses modelling, regional surveys, and experiments at whole-ecosystem and smaller scales, and includes a team of researchers from the Cary Institute, Duke University, and the University of Washington. The project is closely integrated with long-term studies at the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest, and there are numerous opportunities for the postdoc to engage with those long-term data and the Hubbard Brook LTER research community to explore other questions in stream and watershed biogeochemistry and ecology.

Funding for the position is secured for 2 years. The initial appointment is for one year, with possibility of extension based on performance. The anticipated start date is on or around 1 September 2026. The position is based at the Cary Institute in the beautiful Hudson Valley of New York, a short way north of New York City. The Cary Institute is home to a diverse, vibrant, and supportive community of colleagues.

Questions about the position may be directed to Dr. Chris Solomon at the Cary Institute, and questions about the project may be directed to Dr. Solomon, Dr. Heili Lowman (Duke Univ. / Univ. of Washington), or Dr. Emily Bernhardt (Duke Univ.).

Essential responsibilities

• Design, plan, and execute scientific research in collaboration with the research team.
• Present research findings in peer-reviewed papers, at scientific meetings, and in other forums.

Required qualifications

• Expertise in stream and/or watershed biogeochemistry.

• Excellent quantitative skills, including experience with stream network modeling or other process modeling as well as statistical analysis.
• Good field skills in stream biogeochemistry.
• Strong record of publishing peer-reviewed research.
• Self-motivated and collaborative, with the ability to thrive working alone or with a team.
• The successful applicant must have completed a PhD in a relevant field before the start date of this position.

Working conditions

• Occasional field work.
• Occasional travel for field work or meetings is required.

Closing date

Review of applications will begin 2 March 2026 and continue until the position is filled.

To apply:

Visit our career page on our website and complete our online job application. Please use the "Upload Resume" button to submit a single file containing a brief cover letter, names and contact information for three professional references, and a curriculum vitae. Cary Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of the Institute to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, familial status, protected veterans.

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