The core objective of this study is to implement and evaluate novel visual and structural treatments on existing wildlife crossing structures (specifically, double-box culverts, or CBCs) to increase their permeability to wildlife.

The successful candidate will lead research to determine if the application of these modifications affects the usage and crossing success rates of wildlife, particularly deer and other ungulates, through these structures. The findings will directly inform state transportation policy regarding wildlife-vehicle collision mitigation.

4/14/2026

The researcher will execute the following tasks under the direction of Dr. Bombaci:

1. Literature Review

• Conduct a comprehensive review and synthesis of the current state of knowledge regarding ungulate perception, color vision, wildlife crossing structure design, and the effectiveness of existing CBC treatments.

2. Experimental Site Selection and GIS Analysis

• The GRA will utilize GIS to analyze wildlife-vehicle collision (WVC) data, conduct field evaluations of multiple culvert locations on fenced state highways, and finalize the selection of experimental sites.

3. Treatment Implementation and Field Setup

• Coordinate with the research team and CDOT to design and physically apply the experimental treatments.

4. Data Collection, Analysis, and Dissemination

• Deploy, maintain, and manage a network of motion-triggered cameras to monitor ungulate presence, movement, and crossing success at all CBCs

Review academic literature, GIS Analysis, apply paint treatments, deploy camera traps

Pass background check.

Carries out duties as instructed.

Dr. Sara Bombaci

• Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.

• Minimum GPA of 3.0.

• Proven ability to conduct fieldwork in outdoor environments, including remote camera setup and maintenance.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong work ethic.

• Demonstrated proficiency in GIS software or R for spatial data management, analysis, and visualization.

• Experience with statistical analysis (e.g., R, SPSS, or similar).

• Experience with independent research, presentations of research, or publications.

$36,000-$38,000

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Cover Letter, Resume/CV

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Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

The core objective of this study is to implement and evaluate novel visual and structural treatments on existing wildlife crossing structures (specifically, double-box culverts, or CB - Cs) to increase their permeability to wildlife. The successful candidate will lead research to determine if the application of these modifications affects the usage and crossing success rates of wildlife, particularly deer and other ungulates, through these structures. The findings will directly inform state transportation policy regarding wildlife-vehicle collision mitigation. Full Consideration Date 4/14/2026 Brief Work Unit Description. The researcher will execute the following tasks under the direction of Dr. Bombaci:1. Literature Review. Conduct a comprehensive review and synthesis of the current state of knowledge regarding ungulate perception, color vision, wildlife crossing structure design, and the effectiveness of existing CBC treatments .. Experimental Site Selection and GIS Analysis. The GRA will utilize GIS to analyze wildlife-vehicle collision (WVC) data, conduct field evaluations of multiple culvert locations on fenced state highways, and finalize the selection of experimental sites .. Treatment Implementation and Field Setup. Coordinate with the research team and CDOT to design and physically apply the experimental treatments .. Data Collection, Analysis, and Dissemination. Deploy, maintain, and manage a network of motion-triggered cameras to monitor ungulate presence, movement, and crossing success at all CB - Cs. Essential Job Duties. Review academic literature, GIS Analysis, apply paint treatments, deploy camera traps. Conditions of Employment. Pass background check. Carries out duties as instructed. Supervision. Dr. Sara Bombaci. Minimum Qualifications. Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field. Minimum GPA of 3.0. Proven ability to conduct fieldwork in outdoor environments, including remote camera setup and maintenance. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Strong work ethic. Preferred Qualifications. Demonstrated proficiency in GIS software or R for spatial data management, analysis, and visualization. Experience with statistical analysis (e.g., R, SPSS, or similar). Experience with independent research, presentations of research, or publications. Salary Range$36,000-$38,000

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