The Illinois Natural History Survey is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to collaborate on a project developing predictive models of avian disease in the Laurentian Great Lakes. This position will be based out of Champaign, Illinois.

Duties Include

• Collaboratively develop and implement modeling approaches to answer questions surrounding population processes, with a particular emphasis on how ecological and environmental covariates may be impacting the incidence and severity of avian disease in the Great Lakes basin.
• Lead the accessioning, aggregation, processing, and databasing of environmental, population, and other data to feed into predictive modeling efforts.
• Coordinate and collaborate with state, federal, tribal, and non-governmental agency partners to develop habitat management strategies to mitigate (to the extent possible) the impacts of avian disease on bird populations in the Great Lakes basin.
• Analyze data and write manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed scientific journals
• Disseminate research findings to management agencies, the scientific community, and public through presentations at professional meetings, written reports, and public outreach activities
• Keep abreast of developments in this discipline
• Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Illinois Natural History Survey, Prairie Research Institute, and the University of Illinois

Required Qualifications

• D. (within the last 10 years or by the start date) in Ecology, Epidemiology, Wildlife Biology, Statistics, or related field. Alternate degree fields may be considered depending on the nature and depth of experience as it relates to this position.
• Demonstrated extensive experience with a range of analytical and simulation modeling approaches.
• Flexible thinking, analytical ability, and organizational skills are required.
• Strong written and oral communication ability.
• Demonstrated success in publishing research in peer-reviewed outlets.
• Experience in applying for external funding (commensurate with experience)
• Proficiency in programming in R and Java are preferred.
• Applicants should have a drive to explore and apply.

Salary and Appointment
The position is available for one year initially, with the possibility of extension depending on funding and programmatic need. Salary is $60,000, plus benefits

HOW TO APPLY
To apply, please e-mail 1) cover letter that clearly articulates how your qualifications and experience make you a viable candidate for this position and should address the qualifications listed above, 2) a CV, and 3) the names and contact information (including e-mail addresses) of three professional references to Dr. Mark Davis, davis63@illinois.edu.