Postdoctoral Researcher in Tropical Tree Ecology, Climate Variation, and Species Loss University of Montana in United States

Jedediah Brodie’s Conservation Ecology & Research Lab is advertising a postdoctoral researcher position for an NSF-funded project on the responses of tropical tree populations and communities to climate variation and species loss.

The project uses more than 10 years of data from camera traps, tree phenology, tree demography, targeted field experiments, and a rare natural experiment to study mammal-tree interactions, tree recruitment, species composition, and forest carbon storage. The work is centered on a lowland rainforest site in Danum Valley Conservation Area, Malaysian Borneo, and examines the ecological consequences of the loss of the bearded pig as a dominant mammalian consumer.

The successful candidate will analyze long-term ecological datasets using quantitative methods, especially population models, and will lead and publish 2–3 primary research papers. The position does not involve field work. Strong skills in R and population modeling are required, with experience in Bayesian approaches, Integral Projection Models, or similar frameworks preferred. A completed PhD in ecology or a related field is required before the start date.

Funding is guaranteed for one year, with a second year dependent on satisfactory performance and available funds. The position includes a salary of $70,000/year, health insurance, and a $5,000 relocation allowance. Remote work is possible, but preference is given to candidates willing to relocate to Missoula, Montana.

Applications should be emailed as a single PDF containing a cover letter, CV, and 3–4 references with email addresses. Review begins on 2026-06-01, and the position remains open until filled.