Coastal Ecology Research Staff

The University of Georgia is hiring Coastal Ecology Research Staff for its lab in Brunswick, GA. The role involves conducting ecological surveys, habitat assessments, and wildlife research, particularly on gopher tortoises and indigo snakes. Responsibilities include data management, public communication, and fieldwork requiring overnight travel. Candidates should have a degree in Biology, Ecology, or related fields, or equivalent experience.
Position Summary


This position is for a staff researcher in the Coastal Ecology Lab with Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant office and will be located fully at the off-campus UGA facility in Brunswick, Georgia. Projects focus on ecological surveys and research primarily on wildlife, and reptiles, along with general assessments of habitat health and change in the Coastal and Coastal Plain regions of Georgia. Overnight travel for fieldwork ranging from 1-4 nights/week is expected, particularly during September – April.


Primary Responsibilities



Conduct and assist with coordination of surveys for gopher tortoises and indigo snakes (line transect distance sampling and burrow scoping)
Execute mitigation actions such as relocations and exclusion fence/recipient pen monitoring
Conduct vegetation assessments using transects and UAVs/drones
Radio tracking, checking game cameras, and seasonal trapping of tortoises
Data management, analysis, map production using ArcGIS, and production of sponsor reports and peer-reviewed publications
Assist with public communications, education events, and husbandry of captive education/research animals

Preferred Qualifications


Undergraduate degree in Biology, Ecology, Wildlife Management, or related field OR 3 years relevant experience in field research and wildlife.