RESEARCH SPECIALIST I

School of Natural Resources

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has established a set of Priority Geographies in which they are working with partners, including private landowners, to conserve species and habitats. With management taking place in these geographies, the department developed a prototype for a Landscape Health Index (LHI) that collects, analyzes, and integrates a variety of data to monitor the responses of species and landscapes to conservation efforts and measures progress in the Priority Geographies over time.

We are seeking a full-time Research Specialist to assist with developing desired future habitat conditions within Missouri Priority Geographies by developing habitat models for focal species in Priority Geographies. The Research Specialist will work on a team of biologists and managers from MDC and the University of Missouri to identify focal species and model habitats for them. The Research Specialist will also work with a team to identify management scenarios and model how management actions affect desired future conditions to assist with long term landscape scale conservation planning. Duties will include reviewing literature and analyzing existing data on plants, animals. The Research Specialist will also serve on MDC's strategic initiative team to help continued development and planning of the LHI. These activities will provide experience and opportunities to publish on a range of ecological analyses (e.g., spatial analyses of remote sensing data and habitat modeling), while gaining exposure to long-term landscape conservation decision making. Field and outreach work is possible based on selected candidate's interests.

Monday - Friday

8am - 5pm

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience and at least 1 year of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

M.S. in ecology or related discipline with experience in performing basic analyses, GIS applications, and Program R. Experience with habitat modeling and spatial analysis is also desirable. Preference will be given to candidates that possess strong communication, presentation, and teamwork skills.

The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $17.05 - $21.63

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.
Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Grade: GGS-007
University Title: RESEARCH SPECIALIST I

Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR. To review the University of Missouri's Staff Compensation Structure you can view the Job Code detail page.

MU application

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This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.