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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.

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Important Immigration Information:

A Presidential proclamation issued on September 19, 2025, imposes a $100,000 fee on new H-1B petitions filed after September 21, 2025. Please be advised that Tarleton State University will NOT pay this fee. Therefore, if you need immigration sponsorship for your employment, we recommend that you consult with your private immigration counsel at your own expense to ascertain whether your current immigration status would make a potential offer of employment from Tarleton State University subject to this fee. 

In addition, on January 27, 2026, Texas Governor Abbot issued a moratorium on the filing of any new H-1B unless approved by the Texas Workforce Commission. Accordingly, if you will now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status this moratorium may affect our ability to employ you should you be selected as the final candidate. 

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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, in person, non-faculty research staff position based on Tarleton’s main campus in Stephenville, Texas. Maximum appointment is 17 months: an initial 12 months, renewable for 5 additional months, contingent upon mutual agreement, satisfactory performance review, and continued funding availability. 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 Requirements

Required Education and Experience:

• 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.

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.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: Commensurate with experience

Salary Range:

The target base annual salary is $60,000 and may be negotiable based on funding availability and candidate experience/skillset in relation to the minimum requirements of this position.

We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package for full-time and qualifying part-time employees. Our Careers Page offers an overview of the great benefits we offer; for detailed information visit our Benefits Information page.

Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit a completed application for consideration. Initial review of applications will begin immediately and continue until position is filled.

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. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

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.