James R. Colclough Paleontology Postdoctoral Fellowship

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Fellowship position in the Department of Paleontology at the San Diego Natural History Museum (SDNHM). The James R. Colclough Paleontology Postdoctoral Fellowship supports research in Cenozoic mammalian paleontology and taphonomy. The Fellowship was created to honor the memory of James R. Colclough, longtime volunteer in the Department of Paleontology, and is funded by the James R. Colclough Paleontology Endowment. 

Objective: 

The Fellowship is designed to advance the academic and professional training of the next generation of vertebrate paleontologists and taphonomists by providing them with the funding and facilities to pursue specific, time-limited research projects in association with Museum scientists and utilizing vertebrate fossil specimens and data housed in the SDNHM Department of Paleontology.  

Responsibilities: 

Duties will include conducting original research in Cenozoic mammalian paleontology and/or taphonomy, providing research assistance to the Curator of Paleontology, and introducing new technologies and analytical methods into the Museum setting. Postdoctoral Fellows are expected to be in residence at SDNHM full time and actively engaged in the SDNHM community. The position will include opportunities for interactions with colleagues at nearby San Diego State University, University of California-San Diego, and University of San Diego.  

Qualifications: 

To be considered for this position, applicants must have received a PhD degree within the past six (6) years. Soon-to-graduate PhDs may apply, but all formal requirements for a PhD must be completed before the start of the appointment. 

Compensation: 

Annual compensation is $68,640. Supplemental research funds also may be available. Appointments will typically be made for two years contingent on satisfactory progress in year one.  

This is a full-time, temporary position with benefits such as health insurance, vacation,15 paid holidays, reciprocal free admission to all of Balboa Park’s museums, as well as to the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. 

Starting Date:  

On or after August 1, 2025.