Description
Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistantship
Large Carnivores – Glacier National Park and Blackfeet Nation, Montana
We are recruiting a Ph.D. student to study transboundary movements of large carnivores between Glacier National Park and the Blackfeet Nation. Wolves and mountain lions annually injure and kill livestock on the Blackfeet Nation, but the extent that predators from Glacier cause depredations on the Blackfeet Nation is unknown. Additionally, bison restoration is a Tribal priority, and research projects are documenting pre-bison restoration conditions for vegetation and ungulates but not for predators. This 3-year study will gather baseline information on the distribution, density, movements, habitat use, and prey selection of wolves and lions along the Glacier National Park and Blackfeet Nation boundary and will aid in the development and refinement of lion and wolf management plans. This project is a collaboration between the University of Montana, SUNY ESF, Glacier National Park, USDA Wildlife Services, and the Blackfeet Nation.
This position is available immediately and review of applications will occur as they are received. The position will be filled when a suitable candidate is identified. We expect applicants to have an M.S. in wildlife science, ecology, biology or a closely related discipline. Prior field experience relevant to the position, and previous collaborative work with tribal entities and National Parks is highly desirable. Preference will be given to tribal members.
Please submit applications including a cover letter describing your interest and experience, a resume, your transcripts (unofficial) and names and contact information of three references. All applications can be sent to Joshua Millspaugh at Joshua.Millspaugh@umontana.edu and JJMillsp@esf.edu
Please direct any questions to Joshua Millspaugh at the e-mail address above.
Requirements
Application Deadline: 08/31/2026
Published: 08/07/2026
Starting Date: between 8/24/2026 and 1/18/2027
Ending Date: between 8/21/2030 and 1/18/2031
Hours per Week: 0 - 40
Salary: Commensurate / Negotiable
Education Required: Masters
Experience Required: none
Location: 32 Campus Drive, University of Montana (Missoula, Montana)