Post Doctoral Associate - Elephant Communication

Post Doctoral Associate - Elephant Communication

• Oversee assigned research projects.
• Collect, process, and enter research data.
• Perform experiments and measurements.
• Interpret and analyze research results and revise procedures as necessary.
• Establish and maintain databases.
• Document research methodology and results.
• Prepare progress reports.
• Conduct and oversee investigations of study subjects.

The Population Sustainability team at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has an opening for a full‑time, 3‑year Postdoctoral Associate to apply machine learning expertise to investigate the meaning and structure of African savanna elephant vocalizations. The Associate will design and implement research working in close collaboration with Colorado State University (CSU), Save the Elephants, and the Wildlife Care teams at the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park in order to:

Qualifications include a PhD in computer science, ecology, or a related field with a focus in machine learning, with a preference for candidates with experience in applying machine learning to acoustic data to develop detection and classification models. Qualified candidates will have background in Python programming, linguistic analysis, or advanced work in animal communication, and possess in‑depth knowledge about contemporary methods in machine learning.

Ideal candidates will demonstrate a strong record of collaboration and research creativity and productivity. The position is co‑advised within the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology at CSU and the Associate will spend time in both locations. The selected candidate will have opportunities to work with a diverse group of collaborators within SDZWA and CSU and with global partners, and will receive training in using the Open Standards for the Practice of Conservation for the planning and adaptive management of conservation projects.

• Post Doctorate or Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine or equivalent specialized training required.

• Specialization area preferred (e.g., population biologist, demography, or genetics).
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to operate moderately complex computer software programs.
• Demonstrated ability to work with others in a diverse environment.
• Knowledge of science communication or interpretation of scientific concepts.

• Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
• Family Passes.
• Complimentary Tickets.
• Free parking at the San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
• Local and In‑house discounts.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Wellness Program.

• Position Type:
  Salaried Full‑Time Exempt;
  Three‑Year Post Doctoral Associate Position.
• Salary Range: $87,264 to $98,172.

English Language Only. The Elephant Managers Association (EMA) is an international, 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization.