Post-Doctoral Associate

About the Job

We are looking for a quantitative wildlife ecologist to join our team to estimate white-tailed deer density and group size using camera traps. We are excited about recruiting an individual with specific skills in wildlife density estimation using camera traps, spatial ecology and GIS, statistical inference, and/or machine learning. The task of the new team member will be to estimate white-tailed deer density, group size, and habitat selection based on deer radio collar data and a 100 camera trap grid in suburban park reserves. The post-doctoral researcher will be responsible for coordinating a team to keep the cameras running, developing a data pipeline for the images, estimating local deer density and group size (seasonally if possible), and writing manuscripts. This postdoc would be part of a larger team to better understand white-tailed deer movement, habitat use, and disease dynamics at the suburban/agricultural interface. Additionally, this postdoc can work closely with a collaborative team of disease ecologists, movement ecologists, and veterinarians through a national SARS-CoV-2/Cervid Targeted Surveillance Team (https://www.targetedsurveillance.com/).

Percentage breakdown of duties:

• 20% Coordinates camera trap data collection
• 35% Develops analytical pipeline and estimates density and group size
• 35% Writes and submits manuscripts
• 10% Other duties including preparing and delivering presentations; conducting outreach

with the public; and working closely with land managers

Qualifications

Essential Qualifications

• Competitive candidates should be highly motivated and possess a PhD in quantitative/spatial ecology of wildlife or a related discipline with a strong quantitative

emphasis.

• The candidate must provide evidence all requirements have been met for the completion of the Ph.D. prior to the effective date of hire.

• Specific experience with Program R and methods in advanced spatial ecology/statistics is required.

• A candidate who has analyzed data from camera traps for density estimation and who has experience with Bayesian methodologies.

• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment is essential.

• Submission to or publishing in peer-reviewed journals is required and mandatory prior to any potential renewal beyond the one-year appointment.

Benefits

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off

• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program

• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans

• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts

• University HSA contributions

• Disability and employer-paid life insurance

• Employee wellbeing program

• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity

• Financial counseling services

• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Please provide: (1) a cover letter detailing your experiences for the qualifications above and how they have prepared you for this position, (2) a CV, (3) names and contact information of three professional references, and (4) two relevant publications.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About the U of M

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).