"Post Doctoral Research Associate"

Job Details

Posting Number: G/R31100P

Working Title: Post Doctoral Research Associate

Department: VPR-Savannah River Ecology Lab

About the University of Georgia: Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

Employment Type: Employee

Additional Schedule Information: Monday through Friday, 8:00-5:00.

Advertised Salary: $60,000

Anticipated Start Date: 01/01/2026

Posting Date: 09/08/2025

Open Until Filled: Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants: Please provide a resume or CV, a cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications for the position and the names and contact details for 3 references.

Location of Vacancy: Augusta Area

Position Summary

The University of Georgia’s Savannah River Ecology Lab is looking to hire a Postdoctoral Research Associate to assist with the analysis and publication of data on small mammal abundance and ecology as well as the disease ecology of mesopredators in the Southeastern US. Additionally, the successful applicant will utilize modern molecular tools to evaluate questions related to population genetics of wildlife species. The successful candidate will primarily collaborate with existing students and staff on the analyses and publication of existing data on the abundance, diversity, and disease ecology of small mammals, as well as on strategies for the optimization of mesopredator baiting programs for elimination of rabies in the Southeastern US. The successful candidate also will have the opportunity to collect, analyze, and publish molecular data on population genetics questions related to several large sample sets from vertebrate species collected in various locations around the US.

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification

Applicants should have a Ph.D. in Ecology, Wildlife Biology, or a related field. Alternate fields of study may be considered depending on specific experience at it relates to this position. The department is looking for a self-motivated, responsible, creative and enthusiastic individual. The successful candidate will demonstrate extensive experience in a range of statistical approaches and will show evidence of flexible thinking and good organizational skills. Proficiency in programming in R is preferred. The candidate also will have strong written and oral communication skills, as demonstrated by peer-reviewed publications, conferences presentations and experience in writing applying for external funding (commensurate with experience). Prior experience with the collection and analysis of molecular genetics data is needed. Applicants must be able to pass a background investigation for employment by UGA and be eligible to obtain a badge to enter the Savannah River Site.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

Analytical Skills – Will be capable of using contemporary statistical and modelling methods for the analysis of a variety of data types related to the capture and handling of small mammals and the documentation of bait fate for rabies related research. Additionally, will be capable of analyzing genetic and genomics data collected for the purpose of answering questions pertaining to vertebrate population structure, movement behavior, and conservation. Molecular Skills –Will be able to collect, interpret, organize, and analyze genetic and genomic data collected from vertebrate species for the purpose of answering questions pertaining to vertebrate population structure, movement behavior, and conservation. Writing Skills – Will be able to work as the lead author or co-author of publications stemming from unique research conducted by the applicant while employed in this position or as part of a team working to publish the results of graduate student research conducted in the supervisors research program.

Duties/Responsibilities

Participate in the analysis, interpretation, and publication of research results stemming from research conducted by the applicant or research collaborations within the supervisor’s laboratory. (Percentage of time: 40)

Collaborate in the development of questions using molecular data from existing vertebrate sample sets and subsequent collection of those molecular data for the purpose of analysis and publication. (Percentage of time: 40)

Assist as needed with ongoing field programs associated with the capture and marking of small mammals and the determination of bate fate for rabies vaccine baits. (Percentage of time: 20)