Associate Specialist, Department of Environmental Science & Policy

University of California - Davis; Davis (CA); On-site; USD 78,000 - 202,000; Full time

Job summary

University of California - Davis is seeking an Associate Specialist or Specialist to lead advanced ecological modelling projects. The role involves collaboration with Professor Sean Godwin and multi‑disciplinary teams, with an emphasis on Bayesian approaches and field support in remote environments.

The position emphasizes research output, mentorship of students, and active engagement with policy‑relevant science, with a duration of up to three years and an 80% effort.

Qualifications

• PhD in ecology, zoology, ecological modelling or related field.
• Master's degree plus 5-10 years of experience acceptable.

Responsibilities

• Model salmon survival and population dynamics using advanced statistical methods.
• Collaborate with Indigenous groups, NGOs, and government scientists; mentor lab members.
• Publish results in peer‑reviewed journals and present at conferences.

Job description

Salary range

$78,300 - $91,100 (Associate Specialist)
$96,500 - $201,700 (Specialist)

Application Window

Open date: October 5, 2026

Next review date: Tuesday, Oct 20, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Final date: Thursday, Dec 31, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Position description

Nature & Purpose:

The position of Specialist has a narrow focus in a specialized area and provides technical or specialized expertise (e.g., with instrumentation and research equipment or with social science research methods) in the planning and execution of a research project. The Specialist stays apprised of emerging issues and problems and maintains technical competence in the designated area(s) of specialization. Within this defined area and when appropriate, the Specialist is expected to provide leadership, facilitate teamwork and develop collaborative relationships with colleagues and to supply input into the planning of research and educational programs. Normally, Specialists do not have Principal Investigator (PI) status but may obtain permission by exception and/or collaborate with a PI in preparing research proposals for extramural funding. The Specialist is evaluated for merit and promotion using three basic criteria outlined below.

Position Description:

We seek a highly skilled and motivated individual to join us as an Associate Specialist or Specialist (depending on experience & qualifications). The position will entail close collaboration with and assistance of Professor Sean Godwin. This is an 80% position with a duration of 3 years.

Research (90%):

• Fit advanced statistical models, often in Bayesian frameworks, to salmon survival, disease prevalence/abundance, escapement, and movement data
• Construct mathematical models that describe the population dynamics and epidemiology of salmon species in Canada
• Manage multiple ongoing projects simultaneously and provide oversight for field research programs, including support for the logistics, training, and methods of salmon field work in remote Canadian ecosystems
• Publish results in well-respected scientific journals in a timely manner
• Collaborate with a wide array of rights- and stake-holders, drawing on experience working directly with Indigenous groups, non-governmental organizations, and academic and government scientists
• Help mentor lab members (e.g., graduate students) throughout the research process, participating as a co-author for manuscripts, as appropriate.

This position requires a USMCA professional (Biologist).

Professional Competence (5%):

• Give an oral presentation at Ecological Society of America in 2027 and one conference per year thereafter
• Review journal manuscripts and research proposals related to area of expertise

University & Public Service (5%):

• Liase with First Nations, government and industry scientists, fisheries managers, and other rights- and stake-holders throughout the research process
• Participate in public outreach government science-advice processes, as appropriate

Reporting:

Will work under the supervision of Sean Godwin (Professor, Department of Environmental Science & Policy).

Position Requirements:

This position requires possession of a PhD in ecology, zoology, ecological modelling or related field.

Can have Master's degree plus 5-10 years of experience in the area of specialization

Preferred Position Requirements:

• Ability to apply advanced statistical methods, including Bayesian modelling, to ecological and epidemiological data
• Experience developing and applying mathematical and/or population models to investigate wildlife population dynamics and disease ecology
• Experience conducting research on Pacific salmon
• Ability to independently design, conduct, and manage multiple collaborative research projects simultaneously, including fieldwork in remote environments
• Strong record of peer-reviewed scientific publications and demonstrated ability to communicate research findings through scientific presentations
• Experience working collaboratively with Indigenous groups, as well as government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and academic researchers
• Demonstrated ability to mentor and support graduate students and other research team members

Document requirements

• Cover Letter: Please provide a cover letter that describes your related interests, experiences, and career goals.
• Curriculum Vitae: Your most recently updated C.V.
• Authorization to Release Information Form: This form is required for all applicants applying to academic recruitments. Please see the Employment Disclosure Requirements webpage for more information. Download, complete, sign, and upload the form.

Reference requirements

• 2-5 required (contact information only)

Help contact

[e-mail]

About UC Davis

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the employer.
• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties
• APM - 035: Affidative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

To implement this process, UC Davis requires all applicants for any open search to complete, sign, and upload the form entitled, "Authorization to Release Information" into UC RECRUIT as part of their application. If an applicant does not include the signed authorization with the application materials, the application will be considered incomplete, and as with any incomplete application, will not receive further consideration.

UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco-free campus.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

Under Federal law, the University of California may employ only individuals who are legally able to work in the United States as established by providing documents as specified in the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Certain UC Davis positions funded by federal contracts or sub-contracts require the selected candidate to pass an E-Verify check.

The University of California, Davis (UC Davis) is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all employees and students. Our excellence in research, teaching, and service are embodied by members of our academic community who share our commitment to these values. A variety of resources and programs are available to academics, staff, and students that reflect the core values reflected in our strategic plan: "To Boldly Go," our Principles of Community, the Office of Academic Affairs' Mission Statement, and the UC Board of Regents Policy 4400.

UC Davis is also a national leader in inclusive practice. There are numerous links available on the About Us webpage where you can learn more about our administration, campus rankings, locations, campus safety, sustainability, visiting UC Davis and UC Davis Health.

The university is consistently ranked among the top institutions in the world for campus sustainability practices by the UI Green Metric World University Rankings. UC Davis is focused on achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions and repeatedly shown its commitment to preserving a healthy and sustainable environment for generations to come.

The University of California and UC Davis are committed to offering a wide variety of benefits for employees. The University of California Employee benefits and UC Davis New Employee benefits webpages have additional information.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

Job location

Davis, CA