Post Doctoral Fellow-Population Ecology of Black Bear BF9467

About the role

Funding is available for up to two-years for a postdoctoral research position to work with Drs. Robert Lonsinger and Sue Fairbanks in the Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management (NREM) at Oklahoma State University. This position is funded by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) and will be tasked with combining data sources to evaluate population trajectories using multiple competing approaches including standard matrix population models, stochastic projection models, and integrated population models (IPMs). The selected applicant will lead work that expands on our previous research quantifying demography and movement of a recovering population of black bears in southeastern Oklahoma (the Ouachita population). The postdoctoral fellow will (1) collate data from previous research and monitoring efforts, (2) evaluate potential efficacy of monitoring strategies, (3) assess the influence of alternative harvest scenarios identified in concert with ODWC biologists on population dynamics, and (4) work closely with ODWC biologists to identify alternative population management objectives and estimate Prescribed Take Limits to achieve those alternatives. The postdoctoral fellow will be expected to (5) contribute to monthly and annual reporting requirements for the project, and (6) disseminate results via professional presentations and peer-reviewed papers. The selected candidate may also have opportunities to contribute to undergraduate teaching within NREM.

The Department of Natural Resource Ecology & Management provides instruction, research, and Extension expertise that focuses on the natural resources of fisheries, forests, rangeland, and wildlife within and beyond the boundaries of Oklahoma. Our mission is to increase public awareness and understanding of the ecology, management, and sustainable use of these natural resources that are important for maintaining ecosystem health, species diversity, agriculture and forest production, hunting and fishing, and the enjoyment of experiencing nature.

For Further Information, Please Contact Dr. Robert Lonsinger U.S. Geological Survey, Oklahoma Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit Oklahoma State University, Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management 320G Agricultural Hall Stillwater, OK 74078 Email: robert.lonsinger@okstate.edu

Responsibilities

• Collate data from previous research and monitoring efforts
• Evaluate potential efficacy of monitoring strategies
• Assess the influence of alternative harvest scenarios identified in concert with ODWC biologists on population dynamics
• Work closely with ODWC biologists to identify alternative population management objectives and estimate Prescribed Take Limits to achieve those alternatives
• Contribute to monthly and annual reporting requirements for the project
• Disseminate results via professional presentations and peer-reviewed papers
• Contribute to undergraduate teaching within NREM (opportunity)

Requirements

• Ph.D. in ecology, conservation biology, natural resource management, or a related field before the start date
• Demonstrated experience conducting research that results in peer-reviewed publications
• Strong quantitative analysis skills including experience managing and analyzing large data sets or building IPMs
• Strong written and oral communications skills
• Strong record of successfully leading and participating in collaborative team research

Qualifications

• Strong quantitative modeling background
• Experience working with large data sets