Assistant Professor of Applied Avian Ecology

The Department of Natural Resource Management (NRM) at South Dakota State University is offering an exciting career opportunity for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Applied Avian Ecology for a candidate interested in ecology and management of upland game birds, grassland-obligate species, or waterbirds. This is a full-time, 9-month, benefit eligible position with a competitive salary and start-up package. The appointment is 50% research and 50% teaching with acknowledgement of a service component. The successful candidate will contribute to undergraduate and M.S. and Ph.D. graduate training programs and obtain competitive research funding to address research questions in their area of expertise. Candidates should have a strong quantitative research background in avian ecology and management, and an interest in addressing applied questions relating to the management of avifauna. This position is supervised by the NRM Department Head and the preferred start date is January 2024.South Dakota State University promotes access to and opportunities for all to receive the benefit of and participate in education, research, and service and is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to this land-grant mission of access.RESPONSIBILITIES:Teach undergraduate courses in ornithology, management of upland game birds, and wetland avifauna ecology and management; contribute to other courses as appropriate; and teach graduate courses in their respective specialty.Establish a nationally recognized research program that attracts extramural research funding, supports graduate students, and produces publications in national and international peer-reviewed scientific journals.Mentor undergraduate and graduate students.Participate in university, college, and department governance and service as well as professional service and outreach activities.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:Completed Ph.D. in applied avian sciences or closely related discipline by position start date.Record of research and scholarly activities with an emphasis on management of upland game birds, grassland-obligate species, or waterbirds.Publications related to avian ecology and management in peer-reviewed journals.Experience applying contemporary statistical and analytical methodologies to resource management while complementing existing strengths within the department.Excellent verbal and written communication skills and strong interpersonal communication skills.Experience collaborating with local, state, federal, NGO, and/or tribal entities on upland game birds, grassland-obligate species, or waterbirds.Valid driver’s license, or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire, and willingness to travel.Authorization to work in the United States (sponsorship is not available)PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:A minimum of 1 year of postdoctoral or other post-graduate experience.Demonstrated success in grant writing and procuring research funding.Prior teaching at the university level with preference given to experience as instructor of record.Experience working with heterogeneous groups of varying backgrounds and life experiences.Demonstrated collaboration with, scientists, natural resource agencies, or other stakeholdersBENEFITS:South Dakota State University offers a wide range of benefits including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. Employees also have access to internal and state-sponsored training as well as reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions.APPLICATION PROCESS:South Dakota State University accepts applications through an online employment site. To apply, visit: https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu, search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on “apply for this job.” This system will guide you through the electronic application form. This employment site will also require the attachment of a cover letter, which should specifically address how the candidate meets the qualifications as outlined in the advertisement, Curriculum Vitae, a statement of teaching philosophy (two page maximum, attached as other), a research statement (2 page maximum, attached as work sample) and a reference page with the contact information for three professional references. Email applications will not be accepted. Please contact South Dakota State University Human Resources at 605-688-4128 if you require assistance with this process.Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to, successful completion of a criminal background check.South Dakota State University is a tobacco free environment. It is university policy to maintain a drug-free environment and to thereby establish, promote, and maintain a safe and healthy working and learning environment for employees and students. This position is subject to South Dakota State University’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy 4:14.