Assistant Professor - Conservation Behavioral Ecology

Application Instructions

Application submission should include a cover letter, complete curriculum vitae, statements of teaching and research philosophies, copies of academic transcripts, and the names and contact information of at least three references. The search committee will begin reviewing applications immediately and will continue until 16 January 2026. The selected candidate is expected to begin this position by August 2026. For additional information contact:
Dr. Steve Ditchkoff (ditchss).

The College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment at Auburn University invites applications for an interdepartmental Assistant Professor position to expand our teaching and research strengths in behavioral ecology. This is a 9‑month tenure‑track position with a 60%/40% research/teaching appointment. The successful candidate will develop a nationally/internationally recognized and extramurally funded research program in conservation behavioral ecology of avian species. The candidate will collaborate with faculty across broad fields to advance understanding of how animal behavior influences conservation, improve conservation/management of wildlife, and contribute to Auburn University’s growing One Health program.

Teaching responsibilities will include both undergraduate and graduate courses focusing on wildlife conservation, animal behavior, animal learning, neuroscience, and avian field techniques. The candidate will also teach courses in the College of Science and Mathematics and/or the College of Liberal Arts and contribute to the One Health graduate certificate program.

• A PhD in wildlife ecology, biology, animal behavior, psychology, or a related field at the time employment begins.
• Strong history of field‑based data collection (bird capture, banding, telemetry, behavioral observations, etc.); experience in social network analysis; and the use of emerging modeling tools in avian behavior.
• Ability to work collaboratively with conservation scientists, wildlife managers, and state and federal agencies, and to contribute to experiential learning for undergraduate students using locally‑based field research.
• Proven track record of publication in high quality peer‑reviewed journals.
• Eligible to work in the United States and to work legally for the proposed term of employment.

Evidence of acquisition of research funding is highly desirable.

Salary Range $85,000 - $90,000

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