Research Associate; postdoc or post-M.S

Position Summary

Seeking a Research Associate at the postdoctoral or post–M.S. level to perform quantitative research on the population dynamics of White Sturgeon in the Snake River. Using existing data, the incumbent will estimate abundance, survival, recruitment, and movement rates for two sturgeon populations. The incumbent will use these estimates in a population viability model that accommodates management interventions and different environmental scenarios.

Position supervised by Dr. Matt Falcy of the USGS, Idaho Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at the University of Idaho.

• Conduct research (70%):
  By developing and applying statistical models and simulation models.
• Provide project management (15%):
  By meeting with managers and other scientists to discuss interim goals and deliverables. Organizing existing data.
• Manage project communication (15%):
  By writing reports and peer‑reviewed journal articles (at least 2 expected). Discussing research concepts with graduate students in the Fish & Wildlife Sciences Department.

• Expertise in R.
• Expertise in models and mechanisms of population dynamics.
• Familiarity with mark recapture techniques, especially open population models.
• Familiarity with Bayesian analysis and model selection in JAGS, NIMBLE, or STAN.
• Familiarity with integrated population models, state‑space models, and/or integral projection models is desired but not required.

• M.S. in Fisheries Science, Quantitative Ecology, or closely aligned degree.
• Desire to collaborate with fisheries managers.
• Scientific article(s) submitted or published in peer‑reviewed journal(s).
• Must report to work at the University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho.

• 1.5 years of guaranteed funding.
• $62,000/year if in possession of a Ph.D.
• Health insurance and retirement benefits.

Please send inquiries to Matt Falcy  apply, please send a cover letter, CV, one peer‑reviewed or submitted publication of which you are lead author, and contact information for 3 references to mfalcy by January 15, 2026. The cover letter should not exceed 2 pages and should describe your past research experience, interest in this position, and your ability to commit to this position (how many papers do you need to finish, and when will they be finished?).