We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join our NSF-funded project, Effects of environmental change on 
microbial self-organized patterns in Antarctic Lakes. The postdoc researcher will lead the effort to construct 
numerical models to investigate mechanisms forming the morphology and spatial patterns of benthic 
microbial communities (modern “stromatolites”) in Antarctic lakes. The quantitative framework will enhance 
our interpretation of ancient stromatolites in the geological record and improve our understanding of Earth’s 
evolutionary and environmental history.

Qualifications: An ideal candidate will have expertise in at least one of following areas: reactive transport 
modeling, computational fluid dynamics, or theory of spatial pattern formation. 
The successful candidate will be part of the research groups led by Dr. Xiaoli Dong (Department of 
Environmental Science and Policy, UC Davis) and Dr. Dawn Sumner (Department of Earth and Planetary 
Science, UC Davis).

Start Date: Negotiable, preferably by Spring or Summer of 2025. 

Duration and Salary: The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of extension for an additional 
year based on satisfactory performance. The annual salary ranges from $64,480 to $77,327, depending on 
the candidate’s experience. For more details on salary scales, please refer to the UCOP salary guidelines: 
https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/2023-24/oct-2023-acad-salary-scales/t23.pdf

Responsibilities: Under the guidance of the PIs, the postdoctoral researcher will develop and analyze reactive 
transport models to explore the mechanism driving the morphology and spatial patterns of benthic microbial 
communities in Antarctic lakes. 

How to apply: Please email a cover letter describing your background and interests in the position, a CV, and 
contact information for three references to Dr. Xiaoli Dong at xldong@ucdavis.edu. Review of applications will 
begin on Feb 14, 2025, and the position will remain open until filled.


Diversity and Inclusion: UC Davis is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. All 
applicants are protected under Federal law from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national 
origin, disability, age, and genetics. UC Davis provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with 
disabilities.  Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring 
process should contact the Office of Equity by email at dmshelp@ucdavis.edu. Determinations as to granting 
reasonable accommodations for any applicant will be made on a case-by-case basis.