My research investigates the causes, patterns, and processes of tropical biodiversity at diverse scales of time and space. I intend to address questions from a paleobiological perspective (mainly using fossil pollen, spores and dinoflagellates), a point of view that is largely needed to understand and predict the behavior of biota in tropical ecosystems. I am also interested in Cretaceous-Cenozoic biostratigraphy and the paleobiogeography of Tethys.
POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIPS
Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute
The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute invites applications for postdoctoral positions to carry out research in Panamá and the Caribbean. The goal of the Panamá Geology Project is to reconstruct the history of the isthmus, its relation to the Caribbean and South American plates and its biological and paleogeographic implications using field mapping, paleomagnetism, modeling, major and trace-element geochemistry data, and low and high temperature geochronological data. A recent Ph.D. in Geology is required, as well as a demonstrated track record of recent publications. Candidate must be fluent in English and/or Spanish. The position requires residency in Panama, and candidates must be willing to carry out extensive fieldwork. This is a one-year position renewable for a second year depending on progress and availability of funding. Work starts in July 2010. Stipend is $35,000-40,000/year depending on qualifications. There are additional funds for travel and fieldwork. Deadline for application: April 30 2010. Prospective candidates should send a letter of interest and curriculum vitae to Camilo Montes montesc@si.edu.