Research Scientist, Associate - Merkle Research Group

Research Scientist, Associate - Merkle Research Group

Research Scientists are academic professionals whose primary responsibilities are to conduct and support research. University of Wyoming Regulation 2-7 Procedures for Reappointment, Tenure, Promotion and Fixed-Term describe the activities that fall into this set of responsibilities for faculty; the same definition of research applies to Academic Professionals.

A research scientist position is available at the intersection of disease ecology, movement ecology, and wildlife conservation. This position will work in collaboration with U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Geological Survey, and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. The successful applicant will conduct research that bridges fundamental and applied questions that can aid in the management of Chronic Wasting Disease. The research scientist will co‑develop their research questions/projects related to this theme, with a focus on Wyoming as a study system.

The position is 75% research and 25% service. The salary ranges from $60,000 to $85,000, depending on qualifications, and includes a comprehensive benefits package. Start date is negotiable but fall 2026 is preferred. The position is renewable for up to two years contingent upon performance.

• Develop and conduct research in co‑production with collaborators at the intersection of disease ecology, movement ecology, and wildlife conservation.
• Organize, manage and analyze spatial GPS collar data, disease data, behavioral data, and environmental data in cooperation with project partners.
• Develop code‑based workflows to manage, analyze, and visualize a variety of different data streams.
• Lead the development, framing, and publication of independent, high‑quality science that is relevant to partners and the scientific community.
• Write peer‑reviewed publications and present project results to collaborators and at professional conferences.
• Provide analytical, technical, and research support to collaborators and our state, federal, and non‑governmental organization partners.

• Completion of all requirements for a Master of Science in biology, ecology, biological mathematics, or a related field prior to starting work.
• Experience studying movement ecology.
• Interest in studying disease ecology.
• Experience working with and analyzing GPS collar data.
• Experience working with spatial and remotely sensed GIS data.
• Proficient with the computer language R or Python.

• Strong trajectory of publishing in peer‑reviewed literature.
• Experience studying both disease and movement ecology.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience working with state and federal wildlife management agencies.
• Experience with highly collaborative research projects.

• Generous Retirement Contributions: The State contributes 14.94% of your gross salary, and you contribute 3.68%, totaling 18.62% toward your retirement plan.
• Exceptional Health & Prescription Coverage: Enjoy access to medical, dental, and vision insurance with competitive employer contributions, that include 4 deductible options to suit your needs.
• Paid Time Off: Benefit from ample vacation, sick leave, paid holidays, and paid winter closure.
• Tuition Waiver: Employees and eligible dependents can take advantage of tuition waivers, supporting continuous education and professional growth.
• Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs: Stay healthy with wellness initiatives, counseling services, and mental health resources.

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, if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to apply for a position, please contact us at  or email jobapps.