Postdoctoral Researcher Behavioural Modeling of Marine Predator Movements from Satellite Telemetry Data
Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada Position: Applications are sought for a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Biology, Dalhousie University. The successful candidate will be expected to participate as a key member of an interdisciplinary team of ecologists, oceanographers and computer scientists striving to create a web-enabled Platform for Ocean Knowledge Management (POKM). This research will entail developing statistical models of marine predator movement behaviour that integrate oceanographic information obtained from general circulation models. The successful candidate also will work closely with oceanographers and computer scientists to develop visualizations of predator movement patterns and oceanographic features. Qualifications: Applicants must have strong quantitative skills and a background in statistical modeling (including Bayesian inference), theoretical or quantitative ecology and a Ph.D. in ecology, mathematics/statistics, or oceanography. Expertise in biological or physical oceanography, tagging of marine predators, and/or computer programming are strong assets. Expertise with the statistical programming environment R and/or Matlab are essential, extensive experience with WinBUGS/OpenBUGS is desirable. Applicants will be expected to show evidence of research productivity in modeling, the potential to work as a strong team member and the ability to provide deliverables on a well-defined schedule. Applicants who have submitted their dissertation and expect to successfully complete their Ph.D. program within 3 months of starting will also be considered. Responsibilities: Develop or enhance existing state-space models for electronic tracking data to infer the influence of potential oceanographic drivers of marine predator movement behaviour; work with oceanographers to develop candidate oceanographic fields for inclusion in behavioural models; work with oceanographers and computer programmers to develop dynamic, multi-dimensional visualization tools; take the lead role in writing manuscripts for primary publication. Salary: A competitive salary for postdoctoral positions in Canada plus benefits. The appointment will be for 2 - 2.5 years. Application Date: Priority will be given to applications received before October 31, 2008. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. How to Apply: Applications are to include, as a single PDF file, a statement of research interests (1 pg max), CV and the names and full contact information of three qualified references. Please, also include a PDF of 1 representative primary publication or submitted manuscript. Inquiries and applications are to be emailed, with the subject line POKM PDF, to: Dr. Ian Jonsen Adjunct Professor Department of Biology Dalhousie University Halifax, NS CANADA [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.mathstat.dal.ca/~jonsen/ http://www.fmap.ca http://www.oceantrackingnetwork.org
