University of Florida · Florida · posted today
What happens to wildlife when a rocket launches? The University of Florida is seeking an exceptional, highly motivated Project Manager/Postdoctoral Researcher to lead an exciting research project investigating how rocket launches influence the behavior, movements, survival, and population dynamics of the federally threatened southeastern beach mouse (Peromyscus polionotus niveiventris) at Cape Canaveral, Florida. Led by Dr. Robert McCleery (Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation) and Dr. Chris Dutton (Department of Biology), this project combines cutting-edge automated radio telemetry, traditional capture-mark-recapture methods, and advanced statistical modeling to investigate wildlife responses to rocket launches and identify the coastal habitats most important for conserving this threatened species. The project offers a unique opportunity to study wildlife in one of the world's most remarkable research settings, where coastal ecosystems and an active space launch complex intersect. We will use an extensive network of automated telemetry receivers to track the movements and behavior of individual mice at fine spatial and temporal scales, allowing us to investigate their responses before, during, and after rocket launches. Complementary capture-mark-recapture studies will examine population dynamics across gradients of launch exposure and coastal vegetation communities. Position Responsibilities The selected applicant will play a central role in implementing and managing this ambitious research program. They will oversee study design and implementation, supervise research personnel, coordinate field operations and procurement, ensure data quality and integrity, conduct statistical analyses, prepare scientific reports and manuscripts, and coordinate with project partners. The successful applicant will work closely with Drs. McCleery and Dutton and a team of researchers, field technicians, and agency collaborators. They will also assist with fieldwork, including small-mammal trapping, radio telemetry, and the deployment and maintenance of automated monitoring systems. We are looking for an independent researcher who can take ownership of a complex field project, manage personnel and logistics, and translate innovative field methods and large ecological datasets into meaningful scientific findings. Qualifications Required: • Ph.D. in Wildlife Ecology, Ecology, Conservation Biology, or a closely related field. • Strong quantitative and statistical analysis skills, preferably using R. • Demonstrated experience conducting field-based ecological research. • Experience supervising research personnel and coordinating field projects. • Excellent organizational, communication, and scientific writing skills. • Ability to work independently and collaboratively with researchers, agency personnel, and other stakeholders. • Willingness to travel regularly to Cape Canaveral and participate in field activities associated with a dynamic rocket launch schedule. • Current authorization to work in the United States and the ability to maintain work authorization throughout the two-year appointment without employer sponsorship. Visa sponsorship is not available. Preferred experience includes: • Small-mammal trapping and capture-mark-recapture studies. • Radio telemetry, automated tracking systems, and movement ecology. • Analysis of high-resolution movement and behavioral data. • Population demographic modeling, survival analysis, and spatial ecology. • Management of large ecological datasets and automated data collection systems. • A demonstrated record of peer-reviewed publications. Position Details This is a two-year, full-time position at the University of Florida, offering an annual salary of $70,000 plus benefits. Funding is available for the initial two years, with the possibility of extension contingent on additional funding and satisfactory performance. The successful applicant may be based in Gainesville, Florida, but must be available for regular field trips to Cape Canaveral, including overnight stays and extended field sessions when necessary. Dormitory accommodation will be provided during fieldwork. The position offers an unusual combination of hands-on field ecology, advanced wildlife tracking technology, quantitative research, and the opportunity to investigate how wildlife responds to the rapidly expanding activities of the space industry. How to Apply Interested applicants should submit a CV, a brief letter of interest describing their research experience and qualifications, and contact information for three professional references to: Dr. Robert McCleery Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation University of Florida mccleery.bm@ifas.ufl.edu Applicants must already be authorized to work in the United States. We cannot provide visa sponsorship for this position. Applications will be reviewed as they are received until the position is filled.
Apply on the employer's site →JobMoo watches every zoo, aquarium, wildlife, and marine source we know and emails you the roles that fit, once a day, with a real human keeping an eye on your search. Built by a dad and his daughter, and it worked: she landed the job.
Start your 7-day trial, $9/mo after