Postdoctoral Associate - Pet Relinquishment & Companion Animal Behavior
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Job no: 533489
Work type: Research Faculty
Senior management: Agriculture & Life Sciences
Department: School of Animal Sciences
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Research / Scientific
The School of Animal Sciences (SAS) at Virginia Tech is searching for a post-doctoral associate to develop a novel research line and carry out extension efforts that are focused on human- and animal-related factors associated with companion animal relinquishment.
The post-doctoral associate in this position will be expected to survey pet owners in communities within the Washington, DC area; understand the human and animal-related factors that impact pet retention and relinquishment in these communities; develop and implement evidence-based, animal behavior-related interventions focused on supporting pet retention; and evaluate these interventions and their impact with pet owners and Washington, DC animal shelters. This position will be heavily involved in community surveying and extension and collaborating with community leaders, area veterinarians, animal trainers, and sheltering professionals.
As such, applicants must have a strong understanding of companion animal behavior and its application with owners and their pets; a robust comprehension of animal sheltering and One Welfare research; and awareness of current issues in the fields of animal sheltering and pet ownership, particularly those in underserved communities.
The start date for this position is September 2025. Applications can be completed online at jobs.vt.edu. A completed application includes a CV, a brief cover letter that includes a statement of interest and fit for the position, and a list of three references with contact information. Questions about the position can be directed to Dr. Lisa Gunter at lisagunter@vt.edu. Review of applications will begin on July 14, 2025, and continue until the position is filled. Applicants must have completed their PhD by the starting date of the position.
PhD in Animal Behavior, Animal Welfare, Psychology, Sociology, Veterinary Science or related field awarded no more than five years prior to the effective date of the appointment with a minimum of one year of eligibility remaining; Understanding of companion animal behavior and animal sheltering; Experience conducting applied research and disseminating findings to scientific and industry audiences; Mentorship of undergraduates and/or graduate students; Strong organizational and collaborative skills; Expertise in scientific writing and publication; Evidence of instructional abilities with undergraduate and/or graduate students.
Experience carrying out companion animal behavioral and/or One Welfare research; Familiarity in addressing companion animal behavior problems; Experience developing and deploying surveys; Proficiency in grant writing.
Exempt: Not eligible for overtime
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.
Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Dr. Lisa Gunter at lisagunter@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
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