Population Dynamics of North Pacific Albatrosses

Position Description 

We are seeking a highly motivated Ph.D. student to pursue research that bridges seabird ecology, demographic modeling, and wildlife conservation. The successful candidate will leverage extensive long-term datasets to understand the intrinsic and extrinsic factors driving populations of two species of North Pacific albatrosses – Laysan Albatross (Mōlī) and Black-footed Albatross (Ka‘upu). The research will primarily focus on breeding colonies at Midway Atoll, with potential expansion to include populations on other islands. This project has a strong quantitative focus. The core of the research involves the development of advanced demographic models, including Integrated Population Models, to understand how local and broad-scale environmental factors and fisheries affect population status, vital rates, and demographic trends. However, the student will have significant latitude to co-develop specific research questions and analytical approaches. The student may have the opportunity (contingent upon availability of funds) to participate in field deployments to the Pacific to assist with ongoing monitoring efforts and collect targeted field data in support of their specific project objectives. The successful applicant will be expected to publish their research in peer-reviewed scientific journals and present their findings at scientific conferences. This is a highly collaborative initiative, and the student will work closely with a diverse team of researchers, field biologists, and wildlife managers, including partners at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The successful candidate will pursue a Ph.D. degree in Wildlife and Rangeland Sciences with the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute and Department of Rangeland and Wildlife Sciences, Texas A&M University-Kingsville.

Required Qualifications

•    M.S. in Wildlife Science, Ecology, Statistics, or closely related field from an accredited university.
•    Strong quantitative and problem-solving skills, with experience in ecological modeling and statistical computing.
•    Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to engage with diverse audiences (scientists, wildlife managers, and the public).
•    Strong work ethic with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a research team.

PREFERRED Qualifications

•    Demonstrated record of applied ecological research through peer-reviewed publications, presentations, or other scholarly activities.
•    Experience with demographic modeling within Bayesian frameworks (e.g., JAGS, Nimble).
•    Experience with geospatial technologies (e.g., GIS) and remote sensing data products (e.g., climate and oceanographic data).
•    Knowledge of seabird ecology or avian population dynamics
•    Experience conducting basic field ecology.

Stipend/Salary

$2,500/mth plus benefits (medical package available after completion of waiting period). Nonresident tuition is waived (resident tuition and fees apply). Assistance of resident-tuition fees will be provided up to but not exceeding $12,000/year.

Start Date

January 2027

Application Deadline

We will begin reviewing applications beginning 7 October 2026 and will continue until a suitable candidate is selected.

To Apply

Application packet must consist of: (1) cover letter summarizing your experience and interest in the position; (2) CV; (3) unofficial academic transcripts; (4) contact information for two professional references; and (5) one writing sample. Please send application materials (as a single PDF file) or address any questions regarding the position to Dr. Chris Malachowski (christopher.malachowski@tamuk.edu; Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute, Texas A&M University-Kingsville) using the email subject line of ‘Albatross Demography Assistantship’.

Texas law requires that males 18 through 25 show proof of compliance with Federal Selective Service law in order to be eligible for employment. Selected candidate must pass a pre-employment background investigation to be hired for this position. EEO/AA/ADA