Post-Doctoral Associate in Forest Management Planning

The University of Minnesota (UMN) Department of Forest Resources is seeking outstanding candidates for a Post-Doctoral Associate position in support of a research project on the integration of wildlife management objectives into forest management planning in Minnesota. This two-year position will mainly be responsible for developing the building blocks of a forest planning model (adapting inventory data, assessing current growth and yield projections, defining current forest management strategies across forest landowners in Minnesota, and integrating wildlife habitat metrics for the keystone wildlife species in Minnesota).

The individual will be mentored by scientists in the Department of Forest Resources at the UMN, wildlife research scientists at the UMN Natural Resources Research Institute, and other wildlife experts in Minnesota. The anticipated start date for the position is late Spring 2026 but is open to negotiation. The initial term of appointment will be one year, with the possibility of renewal for an additional year, contingent upon performance.

Location

The primary work location will be the University of Minnesota, St. Paul campus. A maximum of 10% of the work will require travel for stakeholder meetings in Minnesota. 75% of the work can be performed virtually with a flexible work location; however, the Post-Doctoral Associate will be expected to reside in Minnesota for the duration of employment.

Responsibilities

• Data analysis and model development (70%)
• Lead meetings with forestry and wildlife stakeholders in Minnesota (10%)
• Prepare reports, manuscripts, and presentations of research findings for publication and presentation at conferences (10%)
• Present and share results at scientific meetings that may be within or outside of Minnesota (5%)
• Professional and Career Development (5%)
  

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree in forestry or natural resources with disciplinary expertise in forest sampling, forest inventory, biometrics, remote sensing and/or forest management planning models.
• Expertise with large datasets.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience developing forest management planning models or other operations research techniques (linear programming, integer programming, or goal programming).
• Experience developing growth and yield models and using the Forest Vegetation Simulator (USFS FVS).
• Experience with software tools such as R, CPLEX, Optimization with Python, Remsoft (Woodstock).
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with others.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Interest in wildlife.
• Demonstrated ability to work successfully with a varied mix of internal and external partners from diverse communities and cultures using tact, diplomacy, initiative, and sound judgement.

Pay Range: $65,000 - $75,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Applications must include the following: (1) a detailed CV/resume that details how the applicant meets each of the required and preferred qualifications of the position; (2) a cover letter that describes the applicant's interest in the position (1-2 pages); (3) names and contact information for three professional references. Combine all parts of the application into a single document before uploading. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

In instances where the Search Committee is unable to ascertain from a candidate's application materials whether they meet any of the qualifications, they will be evaluated as not meeting such qualifications.

This position will remain open until filled.

Application review will begin on January 16. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr. Irene de Pellegrin with questions about the position (depel001@umn.edu). If you need assistance with the application process, please contact Amber Grupe (argrupe@umn.edu).

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

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