We seek applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the U.S. Geological Survey, Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit (http://www.coopunits.org/Maine) at the University of Maine, Orono. The Associate will work in collaboration with Dr. Shawn McKinney to analyze multiple, long-term (40+ years) data sets on black bear (Ursus americanus) populations in Maine. The project objectives are to: estimate demographic parameters and population change rates; predict population trajectories; evaluate the effectiveness of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife’s current bear monitoring program and population estimates; and determine whether alternative research and monitoring methods are appropriate.
Requirements: • PhD completed by time of start date in a discipline within the biological sciences • A record of publication • Experience with Bayesian statistical modeling and MCMC methods • Proficiency with population analyses and modeling of long-term data sets • Proven ability to work independently, problem solve, and formulate and execute a multi-year work plan • Evidence working as part of a team to address and identify solutions to complex problems In addition to the above requirements, the ideal candidate will have experience with integrative population modeling, collaborating with a natural resource agency, and using databases to extract and manage data for analyses. Review of applications will begin in June 2012 and will continue until the position is filled. The ideal starting time is late-August 2012, but is negotiable. Salary is $42k to $47k per year (depending on qualifications) plus benefits, and funding is for two years. Please send 1) a letter of application addressing and providing evidence for each of the six requirements; 2) a current CV; 3) contact information for three references; and 4) at least one, but no more than three, relevant publication(s), to: [email protected]. Please send all materials via email with “Postdoc in population modeling” as the subject line. For more information on the Department of Wildlife Ecology and the University of Maine, please visit http://www.umaine.edu/wle and http://www.umaine.edu. The University of Maine is an EEO/AA employer. Women and members of underrepresented groups in academia are especially encouraged to apply.
