Graduate Research Assistantship

Graduate Research Assistantship: Collaborative Adaptive Management for Rangeland Ecosystem Services

Organization: Montana State University, Dept of Animal & Range Sciences
Job Title: Graduate Research Assistantship – CAM Red Bluff
Location: Bozeman, MT and field work at Red Bluff Research Ranch near Norris, MT
Salary: $25,000/year + tuition benefits
Preferred Start Date: Spring 2026
Application Deadline: Oct 17th 2025

Position Description:

This position will support a collaborative adaptive management (CAM) research project at the Montana State University Red Bluff Research Ranch, focusing on ecosystem services in western U.S. rangelands. The student will assist in establishing and monitoring baseline ecological data, contribute to stakeholder and cultural ecosystem service assessments through interviews and participatory methods, and help develop geospatial and data management workflows for rangeland adaptive management.

This position will be responsible for coordinating and conducting field data collection at Red Bluff Research Ranch, stakeholder interviews, case study analysis comparing Montana and Idaho range systems, and synthesizing best practices for sustainable ranching system management. This work is in collaboration with a similar CAM effort at the USDA-ARS US Sheep Experiment Station (USSES) near Dubois, Idaho.

Position Qualifications:

The successful candidate must hold a completed Bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as but not limited to animal science, range science, or ecology, prior to starting this position. The successful applicant will have excellent communication and collaboration skills. The successful applicant will hold a valid driver’s license and be willing to travel and participate in fieldwork across variable conditions. Knowledge of working rangeland and livestock systems in western rangelands is preferred. Preference will also be given to applicants with statistical modeling and/or qualitative research experience.

Application Instructions:

To apply, please send the following materials to Christian Posbergh with “CAM Red Bluff GRA” in the subject line: a cover letter, a resume or CV, and contact information for 2 references.

EEO Statement:

Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.