Post Doctoral Research Associate

University of Georgia

University of Georgia

USD 60k-60k / year
Posted on Sep 18, 2025

Posting Details

Position Details
Posting Number G/R31100P
Working Title Post Doctoral Research Associate
Department VPR-Savannah River Ecology Lab
About the University of Georgia
Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.
About the College/Unit/Department
See website.
College/Unit/Department website srel.uga.edu
Employment Type Employee
Additional Schedule Information
Monday through Friday, 8:00-5:00.
Advertised Salary $60,000
Anticipated Start Date 01/01/2026
Posting Date 09/08/2025
Closing Date
Open Until Filled Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please provide a resume or CV, a cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications for the position and the names and contact details for 3 references.
Location of Vacancy Augusta Area
EOO Statement
The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).
USG Core Values Statement
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.
Duties/Responsibilities
Duties/Responsibilities
Participate in the analysis, interpretation, and publication of research results stemming from research conducted by the applicant or research collaborations within the supervisor’s laboratory.
Percentage of time 40
Duties/Responsibilities
Collaborate in the development of questions using molecular data from existing vertebrate sample sets and subsequent collection of those molecular data for the purpose of analysis and publication.
Percentage of time 40
Duties/Responsibilities
Assist as needed with ongoing field programs associated with the capture and marking of small mammals and the determination of bate fate for rabies vaccine baits.
Percentage of time 20

Position Details

Position Information
Classification Title Post-Doctoral Associate AD
FLSA Exempt
UGA Job Code
FTE 1.00
Minimum Qualifications
Position Summary
The University of Georgia’s Savannah River Ecology Lab is looking to hire a Postdoctoral Research Associate to assist with the analysis and publication of data on small mammal abundance and ecology as well as the disease ecology of mesopredators in the Southeastern US. Additionally, the successful applicant will utilize modern molecular tools to evaluate questions related to population genetics of wildlife species. The successful candidate will primarily collaborate with existing students and staff on the analyses and publication of existing data on the abundance, diversity, and disease ecology of small mammals, as well as on strategies for the optimization of mesopredator baiting programs for elimination of rabies in the Southeastern US. The successful candidate also will have the opportunity to collect, analyze, and publish molecular data on population genetics questions related to several large sample sets from vertebrate species collected in various locations around the US.
Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification in Position
Applicants should have a Ph.D. in Ecology, Wildlife Biology, or a related field. Alternate fields of study may be considered depending on specific experience at it relates to this position. The department is looking for a self-motivated, responsible, creative and enthusiastic individual. The successful candidate will demonstrate extensive experience in a range of statistical approaches and will show evidence of flexible thinking and good organizational skills. Proficiency in programming in R is preferred. The candidate also will have strong written and oral communication skills, as demonstrated by peer-reviewed publications, conferences presentations and experience in writing applying for external funding (commensurate with experience). Prior experience with the collection and analysis of molecular genetics data is needed.
Applicants must be able to pass a background investigation for employment by UGA and be eligible to obtain a badge to enter the Savannah River Site.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies
Analytical Skills – Will be capable of using contemporary statistical and modelling methods for the analysis of a variety of data types related to the capture and handling of small mammals and the documentation of bait fate for rabies related research. Additionally, will be capable of analyzing genetic and genomics data collected for the purpose of answering questions pertaining to vertebrate population structure, movement behavior, and conservation.

Molecular Skills –Will be able to collect, interpret, organize, and analyze genetic and genomic data collected from vertebrate species for the purpose of answering questions pertaining to vertebrate population structure, movement behavior, and conservation.

Writing Skills – Will be able to work as the lead author or co-author of publications stemming from unique research conducted by the applicant while employed in this position or as part of a team working to publish the results of graduate student research conducted in the supervisors research program.
Physical Demands
Physical Demands: Ability to lift and carry objects up to 35 lbs; Ability to stand and sit throughout the day.
Is this a Position of Trust? Yes
Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No
Does this position require a P-Card? No
Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No
Is driving a requirement of this position? No
Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? No
Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications) Yes
Background Investigation Policy
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact
Contact Details
For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.
Recruitment Contact Name Olin Rhodes
Recruitment Contact Email rhodes@srel.uga.edu
Recruitment Contact Phone

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

  1. Do you possess a valid driver's license?
    • No Response
    • No
    • Yes

Applicant Documents

Required Documents
  1. Resume/CV
  2. Cover Letter
  3. List of References with Contact Information
Optional Documents