Opportunities

Lab Overview

The Song Lab is a new research group in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh, focused on understanding how global change alters phenology and biodiversity, and how these ecological changes interact with human activities.

Our research operates at the intersection of environmental data science and global change biology. We integrate large-scale observational and experimental datasets and cutting-edge analytical tools—from hierarchical Bayesian modeling to artificial intelligence. We aim to provide both theoretical insights and practical solutions to the challenges posed by our rapidly changing world.

Positions

We are recruiting a PhD student to develop research projects at the intersection of phenology, biodiversity, and global change, using large ecological datasets and innovative modeling approaches. Potential projects include:

A. Modeling seasonal changes in biodiversity (e.g., richness, evenness) along environmental gradients to improve our understanding of the biodiversity curve under environmental change and its link to phenology. This project will leverage data from large-scale observatory networks.

B. Forecasting fine-scale pollen concentrations in urban landscapes using models that integrate wind-pollinated plant composition and phenology. This project will leverage remote sensing imagery, ground observations, and air sampling data. The successful candidate will be involved in field sampling.

C. Extracting phenological signals from multimodal data sources (e.g., herbarium specimens, social media, citizen science) to reconstruct and model phenological change across space and time.

The PhD student will co-develop research questions and methods with the PI, lead data analysis, collaborate with internal and external partners, prepare manuscripts, and present scientific findings. We welcome students trained in an ecology background who would like to develop expertise in ecological modeling and data science, as well as students who are passionate about applying statistical and computational methods to tackle challenges in global change biology.

Preferred qualifications:

• A background in ecology, environmental science, data science, or related fields
• Strong quantitative skills, or demonstrated ability and motivation to develop them further
• Curiosity about how environmental change (e.g., climate change, human modifications) is shaping ecosystems

This is a full‑time, in‑person position based on the Pittsburgh campus. The successful candidate will start in Fall 2027.

Prospective PhD students should reach out by filling out this form. Competitive applicants will be guided through the formal application process to the graduate program in Biological Sciences.

For prospective Postdoctoral Researchers, PhD Students, Research Technicians, and undergraduate students who would like to join my group, please fill out this form. Thank you!

Why Join Us?

• Data-driven research: Our projects draw on diverse, large-scale datasets spanning remote sensing, ecological observatories, citizen science, and environmental sensors. Lab members will learn, apply, and develop advanced data science methods, such as Bayesian modeling and machine learning, to address pressing questions in global change biology.
• Interdisciplinary collaborations: Lab members will engage in collaborative research both within the lab and across a broad network of partners in ecology, evolution, statistics, public health, environmental economics, and more.
• Individualized mentorship: Lab members will receive dedicated meeting time and constructive, tailored feedback. Research projects will be co-developed to align with each member’s interests and long-term goals, whether focused on theory, methods, or applied questions. Training will be adapted to each member’s background, to support those transitioning between fields such as ecology and data science.
• Career development: Funded opportunities will be available for attending workshops and presenting at conferences. Members will receive structured support in leading publications, mentoring junior researchers, writing grant proposals, professional networking, and future job applications.
• Inclusive lab culture: We are committed to building a collaborative, inclusive, and diverse lab environment that supports the success of all members.

University, Department & Location

The University of Pittsburgh is a top-ranked public research university known for its strong commitment to interdisciplinary scholarship and societal impact. The Department of Biological Sciences is a vibrant and collaborative community spanning ecology and evolution, molecular biology, and neuroscience. It offers a supportive environment for cutting-edge research and graduate training. Located in the affordable and culturally rich city of Pittsburgh, the university is situated in a hub of green spaces, world-class museums, and a thriving tech and healthcare ecosystem. Pittsburgh is consistently ranked among the most livable cities in the U.S., with access to nature, diverse neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community.