Cornell University, Department of Natural Resources and the Environment

Position ID:Cornell-Department of Natural Resources and the Environment-PA1 [#18063, WDR-00024792]
Position Title: Postdoctoral Associate
Position Type:Postdoctoral
Position Location:Ithaca, New York 14853, United States [map] sort by distance
Subject Area: Environmental / Environmental
Appl Deadline:2021/03/01 11:59PMhelp popup finished (2021/02/02, finished 2021/09/04)
Position Description:    

*** this position has been closed and new applications are no longer accepted. ***

    Postdoctoral Associate

Camera Trap Design and Occupancy of Mammals in NY

Position Summary:                                                                                                                                             

The Fuller Spatial Ecology and Decision Science Lab https://blogs.cornell.edu/fullerlab/ at the New York Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at Cornell University is seeking candidates for a postdoctoral position to estimate occupancy of mammal species in New York and to design a state-wide camera trapping study utilizing community science (possibly paired with systematic sampling) and integrating existing camera trap efforts within the state. The work is in cooperation with the New York Mammal Survey (NYMS), the first statewide assessment of the distribution and status of New York’s terrestrial and freshwater mammals. The NYMS will guide environmental planning and conservation for mammals in New York, some of which are endangered or declining. The candidate will work to extend the iSeeMammals project https://iseemammals.org/ to collect data on terrestrial and freshwater mammals in New York to support the NYMS. Depending on expertise, the candidate will work with a team currently developing a machine learning model to classify camera trap images. Occupancy models will be developed using two existing camera trap datasets at >1,000 sites (i.e., >600 sites surveyed 6 years + >450 sites surveyed 4 years). The candidate is encouraged to develop additional research questions using the camera trap data sets. There will be opportunities to mentor and collaborate with graduate students in the lab. The candidate will be expected to develop manuscripts for submission in peer-reviewed journals and communicate research to project partners. The candidate will be supervised by Dr. Angela Fuller, U. S. Geological Survey, NY Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, at Cornell University (Ithaca, New York). The postdoc will work closely with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and project leads of the NYMS at SUNY ESF and the New York Natural Heritage Program.

 Minimum Requirements:                                                                                                                                  

1.        Ph.D. in ecology, wildlife biology, conservation biology, natural resources, statistics, or a related quantitative field.  

2.        Strong mathematical and programming skills, experience in statistical estimation and simulation modeling and use of R.

3.        Previous experience with occupancy modeling.

4.        Knowledge of animal ecology.

5.        Experience with camera trapping studies and analyzing camera trap data.

6.        Demonstrated desire and proven ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals.

7.        Excellent writing and personal communication skills.

8.        The ability to work independently and under limited supervision as well as collaboratively.

Desired Qualifications: Previous experience in app development, designing or leading community science projects, machine learning applications classifying camera trap images.

Position length: 1 year at a time appointment up to 17-month appointment with end date not to exceed July 31, 2022. There is a possibility of extension, pending additional funding and available work.

SALARY: ~$53,000/year plus benefits (health and dental insurance, retirement, life insurance, disability)                                                                                                                                                                    

START DATE: As soon as possible                                                                                                                                                            

How to Apply

Anticipated start date as soon as possible. Application describing your background and experiences and responding to each of the requirements and qualifications, the names and contact information for three references, and 2-3 relevant papers. a statement of contribution to diversity, equity, and inclusion should be submitted to the Department of Natural Resources https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/18063 

Applications will be accepted until this position is filled.




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For specific questions about the position or application process, please contact the Recruiter listed in the job posting or for general questions email mycareer@cornell.edu.

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EEO Statement:

Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University’s heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, and we do not tolerate discrimination based on any protected characteristic, including race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex/gender, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law. 

Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff to all identities and backgrounds. We encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.

Pay Ranges:

The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:

  • Prior relevant work or industry experience.
  • Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position.
  • Academic Discipline (faculty pay ranges reflects 9-month annual salary)
  • Unique applicable skills.


Application Materials Required:
Submit the following items online at this website to complete your application:
And anything else requested in the position description.

Further Info:
http://dnr.cals.cornell.edu/
email address
(607)255-2841
 
211 Fernow Hall
Department of Natural Resources and the Environment
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY 14853