NOAAs Southeast Fisheries Science Center and Florida International University (FIU) seek to hire a post-doctoral researcher to examine the relationship between herbivores (especially parrotfishes), algae, and corals on coral reefs.
Specific tasks are twofold: 1) review, analyze, and synthesize existing information from the literature, critically examining the relationships between herbivory (with an emphasis on parrotfishes), algae and coral, and the context-dependent nature of these relationships (e.g. effects of geography or proximity to large population centers, land-based sources of pollution, fishing pressure, MPA protection, etc.), as well as identifying gaps in our current knowledge of these factors; 2) conduct field studies to begin addressing the most critical data gaps in our knowledge of the effects of parrotfish on algal assemblages and coral communities (e.g. size- and age-based demographic patterns, grazing rates/feeding preferences different parrotfish species, effects of habitats and geographical locations, role of parrotfish corallivory, etc.). The successful applicant will have a strong background in reef fish ecology, coral ecology/biology, and/or coral-algal interactions, with an excellent publication record commensurate with his/her career stage. Applicants should also have outstanding oral and written communication skills, a strong quantitative background, and work well in a collaborative environment. Experience conducting field studies in tropical marine environments (including SCUBA and small boat experience) is necessary. Familiarity with tropical western Atlantic/Caribbean coral reef ecosystems is desired. The post-doc will be based in Miami, FL and hired through FIU, jointly supervised by Drs. Deron Burkepile (FIU) and Benjamin Ruttenberg (NOAA). The successful applicant will split time between the offices of NOAA and FIU and potential field sites in the Florida Keys, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. Anticipated start date is late summer-fall 2011, but is flexible. The position is expected to last for two years. Expected products will include technical reports and peer-reviewed publications for both the data synthesis and field-based portions of the project. Review of applications will begin July 25. Potential candidates should send a short letter of interest along with a CV to Drs. Burkepile ([email protected]) and Ruttenberg ([email protected]). Florida International University is an equal opportunity employer. Women and minorities are especially encouraged to apply.
