Postdoctoral Research Associate in Ecological Modeling and Fishery Management — Utah State University

Employer: Utah State University (USU), Department of Watershed Sciences
Affiliation: Utah Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit & USGS Grand Canyon Monitoring and Research Center (GCMRC)
Location: Logan, Utah, or Telework from Flagstaff, Arizona
Salary: 💰 $70,000 – $80,000 per year (with full USU benefits)
Application Deadline: Open until filled (priority consideration by November 24, 2025)

🧭 Overview

Utah State University’s Department of Watershed Sciences invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position focused on decision analysis, ecological modeling, and native fish conservation. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research aimed at protecting endangered aquatic species while supporting sustainable water resource management in the western United States.

The successful candidate will collaborate with leading scientists from the USGS, Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and multiple academic and environmental agencies.

🎯 Position Summary

This postdoctoral role centers on decision analysis and quantitative ecological modeling related to the supplementation of endangered delta smelt (Hypomesus transpacificus) populations in California’s Sacramento–San Joaquin River Delta.

You’ll play a key role in developing Value of Information (VOI) analyses and Structured Decision-Making (SDM) frameworks that guide complex water-resource allocation decisions, balancing human and environmental needs — a critical step in addressing the challenges of California’s Central Valley Project (CVP).

Despite years of conservation efforts, delta smelt populations have declined sharply. Ongoing research efforts are now focused on innovative hatchery supplementation strategies designed to restore population growth. Your research will directly influence adaptive management policies, data-driven decisions, and the long-term recovery of this endangered species.

🔍 Key Responsibilities

• Develop and apply quantitative ecological models related to fish population dynamics and conservation outcomes.
• Conduct Value of Information (VOI) analyses to improve water-resource decision making.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams across federal, state, tribal, and academic institutions.
• Prepare technical reports, manuscripts, and present research findings at scientific conferences.
• Support the integration of Structured Decision-Making (SDM) tools into real-world management of the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta ecosystem.

🧪 Required Qualifications

1. Ph.D. in Fisheries Biology, Ecology, or a related discipline (completed by start date).
2. Strong experience in quantitative modeling using platforms such as R or MATLAB.
3. Background in fish population modeling and quantitative ecology.
4. Familiarity with decision analysis and Value of Information (VOI) frameworks, or a strong motivation to learn these rapidly.
5. Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, with proven ability to work collaboratively across agencies and research teams.

💼 Employment Details

• Duration: 13-month initial appointment, renewable annually (up to 4 years, contingent on funding).
• Status: Full-time, salaried position with comprehensive USU employee benefits.
• Additional Opportunities: Adjunct Research Faculty status considered after Year 1.
• Work Locations:
  • Utah State University, Department of Watershed Sciences (Logan, UT), or
  • USGS Grand Canyon Monitoring and Research Center (Telework, Flagstaff, AZ)

📬 Application Instructions

To apply, submit the following materials via email to both contacts below:

Dr. Phaedra Budy – phaedra.budy@usu.edu
Dr. Brian Healy – bhealy@usgs.gov

Include “SDM Post Doc” in the subject line.

Application Materials:

1. A 1-page cover letter describing your research interests, relevant experience, and alignment with the position requirements.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV).
3. Contact information for three professional references.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

🌿 Why Join Utah State University?

Utah State University is a globally recognized research institution ranked among the top universities in environmental and ecological sciences. USU offers an inclusive and collaborative academic environment where innovation meets real-world impact. Employees enjoy outstanding benefits, including health coverage, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.

Learn more about USU employee benefits here: https://www.usu.edu/hr/benefits/

🏞️ Final Thoughts

This is more than just a postdoctoral position — it’s an opportunity to influence environmental policy, restore endangered ecosystems, and advance quantitative ecological science. If you are passionate about bridging science and management to protect aquatic biodiversity, apply today and help shape the future of water and wildlife conservation in North America.