POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW
Population Ecology of Black Bear
Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK 74078
The Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management in the Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at Oklahoma State University invites applications for the position of Postdoctoral Fellow.
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.
Well-qualified individuals with a strong quantitative modeling background, experience working with large data sets, experience with IPMs, and research interests in population ecology and harvest management of game species are encouraged to apply. Experience working with state agencies is also beneficial. In addition to collaborating with Drs. Lonsinger and Fairbanks, the postdoctoral fellow will collaborate closely with an interdisciplinary research team that includes Dr. Omkar Joshi (OSU), Dr. Dana Morin (Mississippi State University), and two graduate students funded on the same project.
Salary Information
Salary for this postdoctoral fellow position is $67,000/yr plus benefits excluding retirement. Check out our competitive benefits and eligibility at https://hr.okstate.edu/prospective-ee.html.
Employment Conditions
This is an 11-month temporary faculty position. Appointments are to be made for a term of one year or less. Reappointments for a total period of not more than two years may be made. Review of applications will begin April 1, 2026, and will continue until a suitable applicant is identified. Anticipated start date is as soon as possible after July 1, 2026 (start date is somewhat flexible).
Qualifications
Required qualifications: Applicants must have earned a 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; and a strong record of successfully leading and participating in collaborative team research.
Application
To apply: Applications must be submitted online at https://jobs.okstate.edu Applicants should submit: (1) a 1-2 page cover letter summarizing their experience, research expertise related to the above project goals and required qualifications, and date of availability to begin if selected; (2) curriculum vitae; and (3) contact information for three references.
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
About the Department
The Department of Natural Resource Ecology & Management (http://nrem.okstate.edu) 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 more information, visit: https://agriculture.okstate.edu/departments-programs/natural-resource/index.html.
To learn more about OSU Agriculture and Stillwater, visit these websites.
