Postdoctoral Researcher in Human–Wildlife Interactions

Colorado State University; Wagar (AL); On-site; USD 63,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Colorado State University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Human-Wildlife Interactions to study how dynamic human activity patterns influence wildlife behavior, habitat use, and landscape connectivity. The role integrates large human mobility datasets with ongoing wildlife studies nationwide, connecting fine-scale responses to broader habitat availability and connectivity.

Based in the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology, the fellow will perform

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a biological, physical, or computer science field and a focus on spatial ecology.
• Strong publication record in spatial ecology or related areas.
• Experience with research design in field settings and collaboration across teams.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent and collaborative research using spatial and spatiotemporal data to address conservation and wildlife management challenges.
• Develop and apply quantitative methods and analytical approaches to ecological and conservation research.
• Analyze, interpret, and communicate research findings through scientific publications, presentations, and technical reports.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams across ecology, conservation, natural resources, and related fields.
• Contribute to the advancement of knowledge in applied ecology, quantitative methods, and the human dimensions of fish and wildlife conservation and management.

Skills

Spatial ecology

Research design

Fieldwork

Data analysis

Education

Ph.D. in Biology/Environmental Science/Computer Science

Tools

MATLAB

R

Python

GIS software

Job description

Position Summary

The Postdoctoral Researcher in Human-Wildlife Interactions will investigate how dynamic patterns of human activity shape wildlife behavior, habitat use, and landscape connectivity. The position offers an opportunity to integrate large human mobility datasets with ongoing and completed wildlife studies across the United States, linking fine-scale behavioral responses with broader patterns of habitat availability and connectivity.

Full Consideration Date: December 1, 2026

The Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology at Colorado State University seeks a highly motivated researcher with expertise in spatial ecology. Based within the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology, this position will contribute to expanding the frontiers of knowledge through broad-based expertise in applied ecology, quantitative methods, and the human dimensions of fish and wildlife conservation and management. The successful candidate will conduct independent and collaborative research focused on spatial ecology and the application of advanced analytical approaches to conservation and wildlife management challenges.

Essential Job Duties

• Conduct independent and collaborative research using spatial and spatiotemporal data to address conservation and wildlife management challenges.
• Develop and apply quantitative methods and analytical approaches to ecological and conservation research.
• Analyze, interpret, and communicate research findings through scientific publications, presentations, and technical reports.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams across ecology, conservation, natural resources, and related fields.
• Contribute to the advancement of knowledge in applied ecology, quantitative methods, and the human dimensions of fish and wildlife conservation and management.

Conditions of Employment

Must be legally authorized to work in the United States by the proposed start date. Colorado State University will not provide visa sponsorship for this position. Must be able to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative research team. Must be able to travel as required to conduct research and attend professional meetings.

Supervision

May provide guidance, training, or mentoring to graduate students, undergraduate students, or research personnel associated with project activities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree in a pertinent biological, physical, or computer science field.
• Demonstrated research focus on spatial ecology.
• Strong publication record in spatial ecology.
• Experience with research design in field settings.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated proficiency in movement analyses, analysis of camera data, spatial statistical modeling, and/or processing of large datasets.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and apply Geographic Information Systems (GIS) methods and tools.
• Demonstrated proficiency with scientific computing and programming languages, such as MATLAB, R, Python, or similar languages used in research applications.
• Research experience examining wildlife responses to human activity or environmental change.
• Demonstrated experience working in collaborative research settings.

Salary

$63,000-68,000

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer.

The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification.

Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO Statement

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Company Culture

Inspired by its land-grant heritage, Colorado State University is committed to excellence and engagement, setting the standard for public research universities in teaching, research, service and extension for the benefit of the citizens of Colorado, the United States, and the world.