Post Doc – Global Freshwater Biodiversity

We seek a post-doc to assist in quantifying conservation hotspots for global freshwater biodiversity. The project is a joint effort of the labs of Peter McIntyre (University of Wisconsin), David Dudgeon (Hong Kong University), and Mark Gessner (Leibniz Institute for Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Berlin), in collaboration with numerous academic and NGO collaborators. The project will be a follow-up to our recent analysis of global threats to rivers (Vorosmarty et al. 2010 Nature).

The post-doc will conduct spatial analyses to identify freshwater conservation hotspots around the world using the latest GIS summaries of threats and species distributions. A variety of ancillary analyses will be used to assess the underlying causes, current status, future prospects, and conservation prioritization of hotspot areas. We anticipate that the results of the project will help to define near-term and long-term agendas for global freshwater conservation efforts.

Expertise in both freshwater biodiversity and large-scale spatial analysis using GIS, a successful publication record, and a collaborative approach to science are essential qualifications. Candidates with specific experience in global geospatial analysis and prioritization algorithms are particular encouraged to apply. The successful applicant will be expected to work independently on the development of the spatial analyses while communicating regularly with the rest of the project team.

The position may begin as early as 1 March 2011, and funding is available for at least 18 months. A competitive post-doc salary will be offered, including health benefits. The first year of work will be based in McIntyre’s lab at the University of Wisconsin in Madison, and then up to another year will be based in Gessner’s lab near Berlin. Both the Center for Limnology and IGB-Berlin are home to well-known research groups in aquatic science, and feature a vibrant atmosphere in which collegial interactions among faculty, staff, post-docs, and graduate students are the norm. Madison and Berlin are widely recognized for high quality of life, including lively culture and arts scenes. Costs of living are moderate, and public transportation or cycling routes are readily available.

To apply, please submit electronic versions of a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, three relevant reprints, and the phone numbers and email addresses of three references to Valerie Seidel. Please assemble documents in a single PDF file. The letter of interest should explicitly address relevant experience/expertise in both freshwater biodiversity and spatial analysis. Review of applications will begin on 7 Febuary 2011 and will continue until the position is filled. Any questions about the position may be directed to Peter McIntyre.

NOTE: Unless confidentiality is requested in writing, information regarding the names of applicants must be released upon request. Finalists cannot be guaranteed confidentiality. UW-Madison is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We promote excellence through diversity and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.