Associate Specialist, Department of Environmental Science & Policy

University of California, Davis; Davis (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Part time

Job summary

University of California, Davis seeks a highly skilled Associate Specialist or Specialist to lead research on population dynamics and disease ecology of Pacific salmon. The role collaborates with Professor Sean Godwin and supports fieldwork across remote ecosystems in Canada, mentoring students and co-authoring manuscripts.

The position emphasizes advanced statistical methods, Bayesian modelling, and strong publication records, with opportunities to engage Indigenous groups and stakeholders in

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s with relevant experience in ecology or modelling.
• Ability to apply advanced statistical methods including Bayesian modelling.
• Experience with population models and disease ecology in wildlife.
• Experience researching Pacific salmon or similar species.
• Ability to manage multiple collaborative projects including fieldwork in remote environments.
• Strong track record of peer-reviewed publications and communication.

Responsibilities

• Fit Bayesian statistical models, often in Bayesian frameworks, to salmon data.
• Construct mathematical models of population dynamics and epidemiology for salmon.
• Oversee field research programs and logistics in remote Canadian ecosystems.
• Publish results in well-respected scientific journals in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with Indigenous groups, NGOs, and government scientists.
• Mentor lab members and co-author manuscripts as appropriate.
• Participate in public outreach and stakeholder engagement as needed.

Skills

Bayesian modelling

Statistical analysis

Ecological modelling

Data analysis

Mentoring team members

Scientific publishing

Collaboration with Indigenous groups

Project management

Education

PhD in ecology, zoology, ecological modelling or related field

Master’s degree + 5-10 years experience

Job 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%)

The incoming Associate Specialist or Specialist will lead collaborative research on the population dynamics and disease ecology of Pacific salmon, including investigations into the interactions between farmed and wild salmon.

This position requires a USMCA professional (Biologist).

Duties

• 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.

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 and 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