Join Us

The science of ecology is about solving some of the world’s most pressing problems. More than ever, this requires a breadth of perspectives from a workforce that reflects the racial and cultural diversity of society. The Fridley Lab supports efforts that broaden participation in ecology and the field sciences. We strive to do better in recruiting and nurturing underrepresented scientists; we value above all an inclusive workplace free of discrimination; and we support the fight for social and environmental justice.

Graduate Studies in the Fridley Lab - Opportunities for Fall 2024

Opportunities are available for new PhD and MS students for Fall 2024 admission into the Biological Sciences Graduate Program at Clemson. Prospective graduate students are encouraged to email Jason (fridley@clemson.edu); please include a CV and a statement of interest. Research in the Fridley Lab focuses on plant functional ecology, with expertise in species invasions, forest ecology, climate change, and tree ecophysiology. Opportunities are available for fieldwork internationally, as well as new projects that take advantage of collections at the on-campus South Carolina Botanical Garden or the surrounding 7000-hectare Clemson Experimental Forest. Research assistantship support may be available for PhD applicants; support through teaching assistantships is guaranteed for all graduate students pending satisfactory degree progress. Full applications are due by Dec 1; there is no admission fee or GRE requirement. 

Details about the program, the university, and life in Clemson are found in the Department Graduate Student Guide.

Postdoctoral Position in Forest Dynamics and Global Change

The Fridley Lab at Clemson University is seeking applications for a postdoctoral researcher with expertise in forest ecology and statistical modeling to help lead a suite of projects at the interface of tree physiology and demography. The successful applicant will apply new theory on whole-plant carbon dynamics to develop models that integrate tree responses to climate and biotic interactions, using longitudinal datasets from the U.S. and Europe. Specific projects could include 1) comparison of individual-based forest models (e.g., SORTIE) in the Eastern and Western U.S. in the context of varying roles of climate, fire, pests, and regional diversity (in collaboration with the University of Denver); 2) analysis of long-term vegetation trends in Great Smoky Mountains National Park (USA) with respect to climatic and biotic factors; and 3) comparative demographic analysis of woody forest invaders in their home and away ranges in France and the U.S. (in collaboration with the Université de Picardie Jules Verne). Funding is available for two years with annual reappointment, with the potential for extension pending additional grant support. Start date is flexible. To apply, visit https://apply.interfolio.com/114621.

Open Position for a Research Technician (2023) [filled]

We seek a full-time research technician to manage lab and field activities related to forest dynamics, tree physiology, and biological invasions. The position is renewable annually for a minimum of two years. Activities include fieldwork in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Clemson Experimental Forest, and the South Carolina Botanical Garden, with the potential for travel to more remote locations. Laboratory and greenhouse activities may include plant growth trials, gas exchange measurements, chemical assays, isotopic analysis, and construction of environmental sensors. Preferred qualifications include a graduate degree in ecology or related disciplines; evidence of strong organizational, leadership, and data management skills; student mentoring experience; and the capacity for working long days in remote locations.  Experience in programming, electronics, statistics, tree ring analysis, or relevant lab instrumentation is desirable but not required. Candidates with a Bachelor's degree and relevant field and lab experience may still apply. The starting annual salary is $47-55K, depending on experience, and the position could begin as early as May 1, 2023. Please contact Jason Fridley (fridley@clemson.edu) for more information. Applicants that apply by April 15 will get full consideration. To apply, visit https://jobs.clemson.edu and search for job 107668. 

Opportunities for Undergraduates 

Undergraduate research in the Fridley lab could take a number of forms, including field surveys, experiments, simulation modeling, and database analysis. Interested undergraduate students should be prepared to dedicate at least two semesters to their research project, should have strong quantitative skills, and should be eager to immerse themselves in the scientific literature. Interested students should contact Jason to discuss potential research projects.