Post Doc Res Assoc - Zoology & Physiology
University of Wyoming · Laramie
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JOB TITLE:
Post Doctoral Research Associate
JOB PURPOSE:
- The Zimova Lab at the University of Wyoming seeks a Postdoctoral Researcher to lead analyses for an NSF-sponsored collaborative project focused on animal camouflage and global change. The postdoc will use global camera-trap-derived data to test hypotheses about camouflage mismatch, phenotypic plasticity, predator communities, and wildlife responses to changing snow and climate.
- The project leverages hundreds of thousands of georeferenced camera trap images of wildlife across the world, along with remotely sensed climate, snow, vegetation phenology, and habitat data. The successful candidate will use AI-derived image data products, including animal color, background color, and camouflage mismatch, to conduct comparative analyses across taxa, space, and time. Research questions may include how animal camouflage varies across space and taxa, how phenotypic plasticity may reduce camouflage mismatch, and how predator communities and snow declines shape vulnerability to climate change. The postdoc will be encouraged to pursue synthetic, independent research that advances the project’s broader goals, with flexibility to develop additional questions that emerge from this unique dataset and collaborative partnership.
- The Zimova Lab studies how wildlife respond to rapid environmental change, with the goal of understanding when evolutionary change and phenotypic plasticity can help wild populations adapt to climate-related stressors. The postdoc will be mentored by Dr. Marketa Zimova and will collaborate closely with Dr. Roland Kays at North Carolina State University and the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and Dr. Alexej Siren at the University of North Dakota. The postdoc will also interact with an international network of collaborators contributing camera-trap datasets and related expertise. Although the position is primarily focused on ecological and evolutionary questions, interested candidates may also have opportunities to contribute to AI image processing tools and workflow development and field work.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead research projects
- Publish papers in peer-reviewed journals
- Present research findings at scientific conferences and project meetings
SUPPLEMENTAL FUNCTIONS:
- Help mentor undergraduate and graduate students
COMPETENCIES:
- Independence
- Individual Leadership
- Innovation
- Collaboration
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- A Doctoral Degree is required for this position, however, consideration will be given to applicants that are currently pursuing their Doctoral Degree and will complete the degree prior to starting work.
- Candidates must hold a PhD in ecology, wildlife biology, quantitative ecology, data science, geography, computational biology, environmental science, or a related field.
- Valid driver's license with a motor vehicle record (MVR) compliant with the Driving for University Business SAP.
Experience Evaluation
Minimum experience requirements are evaluated on a full-time equivalent (FTE) basis. Relevant part-time experience will be prorated based on hours worked. For example, two years working an average of 20 hours per week is equivalent to approximately one year of full-time experience.
Applicants must include the average hours worked per week for all current and previous positions. Failure to provide this information may affect the evaluation of qualifications.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience managing and analyzing large, complex ecological datasets
- Demonstrated expertise in advanced quantitative approaches such as hierarchical ecological modeling, Bayesian inference, dynamic occupancy modeling, species distribution modeling, spatiotemporal modeling, or activity pattern analysis.
- Proficiency in R and/or Python, with a strong commitment to reproducible research practices.
- A strong record of scientific publication in peer-reviewed journals, including at least one first-author publication.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and work productively within multi-institution collaborations.
REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS:
Complete the online application and upload a single PDF file that includes (1) a cover letter describing your research interests, relevant experience, quantitative skills, and fit for the position; (2) a CV; (3) one representative first-author publication; and (4) contact information for three references.
This position will remain open until filled. Complete applications received by 12/1/2026 will receive full consideration. Questions should be directed to Dr. Marketa Zimova at mzimova@uwyo.edu.
WORK LOCATION:
On-campus: This position provides vital support to campus customers, and the successful candidate must be available to work and perform essential job functions on campus, understanding our location is at 7,220 feet above sea level.
WORK AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENTS:
Work authorization sponsorship may be available for this position, however, sponsorship for H-1B work authorization or work visa is not available for this position.
HIRING STATEMENT/EEO:
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to apply for a position, please contact us at 307-766-2377 or email jobapps@uwyo.edu.
ABOUT LARAMIE:
The University of Wyoming is located in Laramie, a charming town of 30,000 residents nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountain West. The state of Wyoming continues to invest in its only 4-year university, helping to make it a leader in academics, research, and outreach with state-of-the-art facilities and strong community ties. We invite you to learn more about Laramie by visiting the About Laramie website.
Located in a high mountain valley near the Colorado border, Laramie offers both outstanding recreational opportunities and close proximity to Colorado’s Front Range and the metropolitan Denver area. Laramie’s beautiful mountain landscape offers outdoor enjoyment in all seasons, with over 300 days of sunshine annually. For more information about the region, please visit http://visitlaramie.org/