Postdoctoral Fellow

Overview

The College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment at Auburn University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Quantitative Ecology. The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing research with the Motus collaborative wildlife research network. Specific research topics may include the creation of scientific products to inform the spatial prioritization of new tower deployments, and the development of techniques to aid with the quantitative analysis of data collected by Motus collaborators.

Applications should be received by December 4, 2026. We anticipate a start date of January 1, 2027. Applicants must include a letter of interest, Curriculum vitae, names and full contact information of at least three professional references, and official transcripts (transcripts should show conferral of a Doctorate degree and date of conferral). Only complete applications will be considered.

Responsibilities

• Manage and analyze large spatial and movement datasets using R
• Employ advanced statistical techniques for integrating data from multiple sources, including Bayesian statistics
• Prepare peer-reviewed manuscripts and present findings at professional conferences
• Assist with mentoring graduate and undergraduate students
• Build strong, collaborative relationships with non-profit and university partners

Qualifications

Required

• PD. in wildlife sciences or a related discipline (degree conferred prior to start date)
• Proficiency in R for statistical analysis and data management
• Strong publication record commensurate with career stage
• The successful candidate must meet eligibility requirements for work in the United States at the time the appointment is scheduled to begin and continue working legally for the term of employment.

Preferred

• Experience examining novel concepts in avian movement ecology
• Proficiency in advanced statistical techniques, such as Bayesian hierarchical modeling and machine learning
• Past mentorship of students and technicians in avian ecology projects, especially using techniques such as point counts, bird capture and transmitter attachment, and species distribution modeling
• Prior collaborations with state, federal, university, or non-profit partners to achieve research goals

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proficiency in R and statistical analysis of large spatial and movement datasets.
• Knowledge of advanced statistical techniques, including Bayesian approaches.
• Ability to prepare peer-reviewed publications and professional presentations.
• Ability to mentor and support student researchers.
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills with university, agency, and non-profit partners.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

Contract Type

Limited Term

Why Work at Auburn?

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We're Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement

It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's website to learn more.