Program Overview
The UF/IFAS Invasive Species Council seeks a detail-oriented and highly organized postdoctoral researcher to lead an interdisciplinary, interagency effort to develop a standardized curriculum for a new tiered training program in invasive plant management. Standardized protocols can enhance workforce mobility, improve resource management outcomes, and increase public support by professionalizing the field.
The program will design an operationally focused training curriculum that centers on the skills and knowledge needed for progressive roles within invasive species management. The four identified tiers are: Volunteer/Crew Trainee, Crew Member, Crew Lead, and Invasive Manager.

Position Information
The postdoc will oversee program coordination, support tier leads, collaborate with UF faculty and stakeholders, assess existing resources, and develop new materials as needed. This two-year position, based in Gainesville, FL, offers a starting salary of $60,000 with full benefits. Candidate must have a conferred PhD in invasive plant science and management, weed science, natural resource management, agricultural education, or a related field. The ideal candidate will have experience with herbicide use in natural areas, invasive plants of southeastern U.S. landscapes, and some knowledge of invasive plant management field operations.
This position is particularly well-suited for individuals with PhDs focused on extension or applied research. The role involves leading the development of an innovative extension program, with the potential for topical expansion into broader aspects of invasive species management and geographic expansion to other states or regions. The postdoctoral researcher will be expected to contribute to the academic literature by publishing findings on both the processes and outcomes of the project, capturing successes and challenges to inform and support future, analogous initiatives.

Key Responsibilities
• Facilitate Program Coordination: Ensure seamless collaboration across program tiers to maintain alignment with project objectives and achieve timely progress.
• Support Curriculum Development: Assist tier leads in organizing and leading stakeholder meetings and in the development of curriculum content to address diverse needs effectively.
• Evaluate Existing Resources: Conduct a thorough review of available curriculum materials to assess their relevance and alignment with program goals.
• Create New Educational Content: Collaboratively design and develop new curriculum materials in consultation with UF faculty and other key stakeholders to address identified gaps.
• Assess Program Impact: Design and implement robust evaluation tools, including surveys, feedback mechanisms, and performance assessments, to measure program outcomes and inform continuous improvement.