Research Associate-Fixed Term

Position Summary

The Department of Integrative Biology at Michigan State University invites applications from behavioral ecologist for one or more part-time, 12-month, fixed-term research associate positions with an 80% research assignment. The position start date is somewhat flexible, between October 1 2025 and September 1 2026. The initial appointment is for one year, with the expectation of extension contingent upon satisfactory performance and continued funding.

The selected candidate will play a key role in (a) conducting research using the Mara Hyena Project (MHP)’s long-term behavioral, demographic, ecological and biological sample data alongside a dedicated team of faculty and field-based research assistants, and (b) establishing an independent or collaborative research program with other faculty members in areas related to behavioral ecology, mammalogy, physiology, and modern statistics. Preference will be given to applicants who have experience collecting field data from free-living mammalian carnivores. The MHP collects and manages a long-term data base that is maintained in Microsoft Access and via a remotely accessible R package. Familiarity with these kinds of long-term data and experience querying and accessing complex databases is desired. The hired scientist will work with MHP scientists to produce manuscripts, present research results at conferences, and contribute to grant applications to fund ongoing research at the field site.

Furthermore, there will be potential for the candidate to conduct fieldwork at the Mara Hyena Project research site in the Maasai Mara Kenya. Additional anticipated duties of this position pertaining specifically to field work include spending several weeks at the MHP field site overseeing research projects, training research assistants, meeting with local authorities to help maintain good working relationships and ensuring continuity of the long-term data collection. They will also assist in logistics related to conducting research in Kenya, including generating reports for permitting agencies and local stakeholders and preparing permitting applications.

In addition, there will be a preference for candidates who will bring in molecular and/or physiological expertise to bolster the research tools in the Department of Integrative Biology. The successful candidate will have access to Dr. Strauss’ and Dr. Montgomery’s shared lab space, and the department is home to a variety of physiology and molecular biology labs with state-of-the-art equipment.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Behavioral Ecology

Minimum Requirements

· Ph.D. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology or other related biology field by start date.

· 2 or more years graduate or post-doctoral research experience in organismal biology, field biology with a specialization in mammalogy, behavioral ecology, applied statistics, physiology, genomics, evolutionary biology, and/or a similar sub-discipline.

· Evidence of a plan for future research.

· Experience teaching and/or mentoring undergraduates.

· Dedication to professional development.

· Commitment to fostering student success and inclusivity in a diverse learning environment.

· Evidence of collaboration in research and/or teaching.

Required Application Materials

Upload the following required documents:

a) letter of interest that includes qualifications and interest in the position (2-page maximum);

b) current curriculum vitae;

c) a research statement describing past, current and future projects; and

d) contact information for three professional references. 

Special Instructions

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Summary of Physical Demands

Field work requires possibly lifting heavy items on occasion (50lbs) and more frequently lifting and/or carrying objects weight 25 lbs.

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Website

integrativebiology.natsci.msu.edu

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.