The United States Geological Survey is recruiting a post-doctoral scientist in quantitative ecology to plan, develop, and extend continental-scale mechanistic models of avian migration to accommodate bioenergetics and climate aspects. Further, the scientist will develop local-scale models of avian count data collected at stopover and wintering locations throughout the United States. The scientist will collaborate to integrate these local-level findings to reflect results from and inform the continental-scale migration model. These analyses address science needs of the Integrated Waterbird Management and Monitoring (IWMM) project of the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service.
Funding for the position is for 1 year and is subject to renewal for 3 additional years given availability of funding. Remuneration is $57,982, plus benefits. The post-doc will work with project lead Wayne Thogmartin and other members of the IWMM science team. The post-doc will be stationed in La Crosse, WI, at the Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center. Candidates will support the project by taking lead and collaborative roles in: 1) the review, synthesis, testing, and evaluation of existing methods and models for moving waterfowl through the continent as a function of caloric gain and loss; 2) Extend these models to more formally accommodate physiological responses of birds to weather; and, as time allows, 3) Predict consequences to migration from changing patterns in climate and land use. Considerable latitude exists to pursue novel methods and questions, especially in the areas of ecosystem services and full life-cycle population ecology. Applicants should possess strong skills in the R programming language, an understanding of mechanistic models, migration ecology, and avian physiological ecology, and experience publishing in peer-reviewed journals. Experience modeling wildlife populations and geospatial methods/GIS skills are highly desirable. Experience with or interest in wind energy development and ecosystem services is preferred but not a necessary condition for this position. To express interest in the position and to be alerted when it is formally announced on USAJOBS.GOV, please send a short cover letter and curriculum vitae via email, subject line "Avian Migration Ecology Post-doc" to: Wayne E. Thogmartin United States Geological Survey Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center 2630 Fanta Reed Road La Crosse, WI 54603 608-781-6309 [email protected]
