Research Scientist, Associate - Merkle Research Group

University of Wyoming • Laramie, WY

26d • Onsite

About The Position

The Merkle Research Group develops advanced conservation decision support tools utilizing the latest in geospatial analysis and ecological science. These decision support tools are highly valued by agencies and other conservation organizations. However, our tools are not widely known outside of Wyoming. As our influence and sphere of work expands to more western states, we have a need to enhance our capacity to share our technical expertise with a regional audience. We seek an individual with technical background and expertise who can expand awareness, understanding, and adoption of the science and tools developed in our lab.

This position will help promote the application of the Merkle Research Group’s work by coordinating workshops, presentations, partner meetings, and outreach activities that highlight ongoing conservation efforts related to wildlife migration, habitat conservation, and working lands stewardship. The position will also support the development of outreach materials, success stories, and educational content that improve awareness of conservation opportunities and strengthen collaboration among partners involved in initiatives such as the USDA Working Lands for Wildlife Migratory Big Game Initiative (MBGI).

The Merkle Research Group has a growing demand for applied geospatial support associated with large-scale conservation initiatives, including efforts related to wildlife migration, habitat connectivity, and working lands conservation. We are in need of a research scientist to maintain data quality, improve conservation decision-support tools, and provide timely analytical support to partners utilizing Merkle Research Group products and workflows. This position will increase our capacity by conducting geospatial analyses and spatial data management tasks such as georeferencing and refining fence datasets, performing GIS analyses, conducting QA/QC on conservation-related spatial datasets, and developing efficient spatial data workflows. The position will also support the creation of customized maps, analyses, and other geospatial products for state, federal, and non-governmental conservation partners.

This multifaceted role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on wildlife conservation through the application of innovative data science techniques.

Requirements

• MS in Wildlife Ecology, Ecology, Geography, Environment and Natural Resources, or related interdisciplinary field.
• Experience with, or passion for, translating science and technical information into conservation action.
• Experience working with and analyzing a variety of GIS datasets including public records, environmental data, remotely sensed data, and watershed data.
• Experience working with a variety of governmental and non-governmental conservation organizations.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with a variety of governmental and non-governmental conservation organizations.
• Experience communicating science or other technical material (e.g., tools or computer applications) to stakeholders and/or the public, preferably through workshops or webinars.
• Knowledge or experience with community-based or working lands conservation, and/or USDA Farm Bill programs.
• Advanced geospatial skills and/or cartography using remote sensing data (Earth Engine, Python, R, ESRI).

Responsibilities

• Coordinate outreach and technical science transfer through the development and delivery of in-person and virtual workshops that support partners in learning and applying Merkle Research Group tools for land conservation, wildlife management, and ecological research. Outreach efforts will occur in Wyoming and across other USDA Working Lands for Wildlife Migratory Big Game Initiative (MBGI) states, including Utah, Colorado, Idaho, and Montana. The position will require extensive coordination with state and federal agencies, non-governmental organizations, and other conservation partners.
• Gather partner feedback on Merkle Research Group tools and workflows and provide recommendations for quarterly updates and improvements based on user needs and operational experience.
• Assist partners in the application of additional conservation decision-support tools, including those developed by the USDA Working Lands for Wildlife program.
• Conduct original research leading to peer-reviewed publications that address important questions related to private lands conservation.
• Provide technical support to partners through the development and implementation of specialized workflows, including geospatial analysis, mapping, and applied ecological analyses that inform conservation decision-making.
• Conduct a variety of geospatial analyses and data management tasks, including georeferencing and refining fence datasets, performing spatial joins and other GIS analyses, conducting quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) on spatial datasets (e.g., fences, habitat improvement projects, and conservation treatments), and developing efficient spatial data workflows. This work will primarily support the development and improvement of Merkle Research Group land conservation tools, as well as the creation of customized geospatial products and analyses for project partners.

Benefits

• Generous Retirement Contributions: The State contributes 14.94% of your gross salary, and you contribute 3.68%, totaling 18.62% toward your retirement plan.
• Exceptional Health & Prescription Coverage: Enjoy access to medical, dental, and vision insurance with competitive employer contributions, that include 4 deductible options to suit your needs
• Paid Time Off: Benefit from ample vacation, sick leave, paid holidays, and paid winter closure.
• Tuition Waiver: Employees and eligible dependents can take advantage of tuition waivers, supporting continuous education and professional growth.
• Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs: Stay healthy with wellness initiatives, counseling services, and mental health resources.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level