Opportunities
I am always looking for motivated and enthusiastic individuals to join my lab. Interested applicants should read through some of my recent publications to evaluate fit, and contact me to discuss opportunities.
Visiting Postdoc Position in Plant Trait Ecology of Tundra Ecosystems (now accepting applications)
The Fraterrigo lab at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to study the trait ecology of arctic tundra plant communities (https://fraterrigolab.nres.illinois.edu/). The successful candidate will take a leading role in advancing fundamental understanding of trait covariation and trait-environment relationships at community-, PFT-, and intraspecific-levels by leveraging a large dataset of aboveground and belowground plant traits from a latitudinal gradient in northern Alaska. This work will improve prediction of plant trait responses to environmental change and the consequences for ecosystem functioning. The postdoc will be expected to drive projects toward publication, actively engage with other researchers, and help mentor graduate and undergraduate students in the lab.
Specific responsibilities include leading and collaborating on scientific manuscripts, empirical modeling, and developing new research ideas. The lab is supportive of opportunities for professional development (e.g., conferences, workshops), and the postdoc will have the opportunity to develop and pursue their own research questions in conjunction with the general interests of the lab. The successful candidate will have opportunities to interact closely with a diverse group of scientists and collaborate on several ongoing projects.
Essential qualifications include:
- A Ph.D. in plant ecology or related fields at time of appointment.
- Strong background in trait ecology.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills (English).
- Proficient in statistical analyses and data visualization, using R or a related language.
- Demonstrated ability to conduct independent quantitative research, articulate scientific questions and findings, and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
The initial appointment will be for one year with the possibility of extension based on satisfactory performance and funding. The start date is flexible, but ideally the candidate would begin early summer. Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.
To apply, please email a single PDF file containing the following to jmf_[at]_illinois_[dot] edu, with “Trait Postdoc” in the subject line: (1) a short cover letter describing your interest in the project and your preferred start date (< 1 page); (2) your CV with names/contact information of 2-3 professional references.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. The University of Illinois encourages a diversity of applicants to apply. The Fraterrigo Lab strives to foster an inclusive, intellectually rigorous research environment grounded in collaboration, curiosity, and continuous learning.
Graduate Student Opportunities for Fall 2026. I am recruiting graduate students (MS or PhD) to study forest ecosystem responses to fire history and non-native species invasion in the Central Hardwood Region of southern Illinois. The positions will focus on plant community change through a functional-trait lens, demographic responses of an invasive grass to variation in fire history, or biogeochemical cycling. The positions provide a unique opportunity to advance understanding of forest ecosystems undergoing global change with direct impact on forest management, conservation, and restoration. The positions provide a competitive stipend, tuition waiver, and full benefits through a combination of teaching and research assistantships.
Qualifications: Applicants should have a B.S (or preferably M.S. for prospective PhD students) in ecology, biology, forestry, environmental science or a closely related field. Applicants should be able to work independently, but also cooperatively with other researchers. Applicants should have a strong work ethic, excellent communication skills, ability to problem solve, demonstrated writing and quantitative capabilities, and a record of leadership. Preference will be given to applicants with previous field experience in forest ecosystem ecology.
To apply, please email jmf[at]illinois[dot]edu) a single PDF file containing the following: (1) a cover letter indicating who you are, why you are interested in joining the lab, what kind of research you hope to do in graduate school, and your short- and long-term career goals; (2) a CV that summarizes your academic and work experiences; (3) the names and contact information (including email addresses) for three references. Please submit these materials before November 10. This will allow time to assess whether your research interests fit with our research group before submitting an official application.
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Students may choose a degree program through either the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES) or the Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology (PEEC). Official applications are due Dec. 1 to PEEC and Dec. 15 to NRES, with interviews typically occurring in early February.
The University of Illinois encourages a diversity of applicants to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other category legally protected by federal or state law.