Job Description

Description

The Department of Biology in the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences at West Virginia University (WVU) invites applications for a Post Doctoral Fellow in Ecology. In the lab of Dr. Ember Morrissey, the incumbent in this position will conduct research in the area of pasture ecosystem ecology. This is a full-time, benefits eligible position. Applicants experienced with soil health measurements, plant diversity surveys, data analysis, NCRS funded projects, soil biogeochemistry, and agroecology are particularly encouraged to apply.

The Department of Biology has a strong research focus in ecosystem ecology with a large group of faculty, post-docs, and graduate students. This ecology group has a long track record of collaboration, has built a environment that supports team science, and enables open discussion of research ideas. In addition, the Department of Biology has access to numerous resources including the WVU Herbarium, Core Arboretum, Ecotron, and greenhouse facilities to advance innovative, collaborative research. Beyond the department, there is a plethora of nearby research sites that have hosted scientific efforts including WVU’s experimental farms and the Fernow Experimental Forest. Finally, WVU houses cutting-edge high-performance computing clusters, including Dolly Sods and Thorny Flat, which are available to support data-intensive projects. Further information can be found at the Department website: https://biology.wvu.edu.

Responsibilities:

Specific responsibilities will include but are not limited to collections and processing research samples – performing soil health analyses and vegetation surveys; assist with grant management and reporting and collaborating on grant proposals; analyze data and interpret results and perform statistical test; communication research results by writing scientific manuscripts and presenting at conferences; and provide mentorship to junior project personnel.

Qualifications

Professional Qualifications

A Ph.D. in Biology, Plant and Soil Sciences, Microbiology, Environmental Sciences, or a related field is required.

In addition, the successful applicant must have working knowledge of ecological and soil health principles and concepts in agricultural ecosystems.

Application:

To apply, please visit WVU Careers. Upload the following: 1) a curriculum vitae; 2) an application letter that discusses relevant experience and interest in research area; and 3) contact information for three references that can provide recommendation letters.

The screening process will begin on February 10, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. For more information, contact Dr. Morrissey ([email protected]).

Morgantown, WV is a growing university city. The area offers abundant outdoor recreation and the cultural opportunities of a college town. It is within easy driving distance of Pittsburgh, PA (70 mi) and is within a day's driving distance to Washington DC and Columbus, OH (200 mi).

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.

From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.