Postdoctoral Associate

Apply now Job no: 510291
Position type: Full-Time 12-Month
Department: 080300 - FWRC-Wildlife,Fisheries&Aquaculture
Location: Central MS Area
Categories: Professional
Position Open Date: Mar 3 2026

The MSU Deer Lab is seeking a postdoctoral researcher for white-tailed deer ecology and management. Their primary focus will be research to mitigate deer depredation on row crops, but they will also work with long‑term datasets, including statewide harvest records, statewide health‑check data, GPS radio‑collar data, and more. The individual will be supervised by Dr. Jacob Dykes and will be expected to collaborate with a large team of PIs, graduate students, and technicians.

White‑tailed deer ecology and management

April 2026.

PhD in wildlife ecology, natural resources or a closely related field. Valid U.S. driver’s license.

• Demonstrated field experience in inclement conditions (e.g., hot and humid weather, biting insects, venomous snakes).
• Demonstrated experience working with state and federal agencies.
• Lead authorship on at least one peer‑reviewed publication in ecological or natural resources management journals.

• A strong work ethic, critical thinking skills, attention to detail, a positive attitude, and the ability to work both independently and in groups.
• Strong quantitative skills (R, GIS, etc.).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Travel may be frequent, especially during sampling periods. Overnight travel as required.
Regularly involves lifting, bending or other physical exertion. Often exposed to one or more elements such as heat, cold, noise, dust, dirt, chemicals, etc., with the exposure often to the point of being objectionable.
Injuries may require professional treatment.
Externally imposed deadlines; set or revised on short notice; frequent shifts in priority; numerous interruptions requiring immediate attention; unusual pressure on a daily basis due to accountability for success of major projects or areas of operation.

Submit an application packet via the online application system that includes:
1) a one‑page cover letter,
2) a CV with contact information for three professional references, and
3) degree transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable for application, but official transcripts will be required if an offer is made). In addition, email the cover letter, CV, and transcript copies with social security number (if present) redacted as a single PDF packet to Dr. Jacob Dykes es. Please refer any questions regarding the position to Dr. Dykes via e‑mail.

March 17, 2026, until filled.

Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, .

In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel:  or adatate.edu.

Advertised: Mar 03 2026 Central Standard Time
Applications close:

Mississippi – Not located on main campus