GIS connectivity position for the Great Lakes

UW-Madison – GIS connectivity position for the Great Lakes

Post-doctoral opportunity: Conserving and restoring connectivity between the Great Lakes and their tributaries

We seek a post-doctoral researcher to lead an analysis of the impact of barriers on fish migrations between the Great Lakes and their tributaries. Fish migrations into rivers and streams are a key feature of the Great Lakes ecosystem, but are commonly blocked by a variety of barriers. To advance conservation and restoration of these essential connections, there is a need to map, evaluate, and prioritize tributaries based on the nature and degree of barriers to fish migrations.

The project is a collaboration between the McIntyre lab group in the Center for Limnology at UW-Madison and The Nature Conservancy’s Great Lakes Project. It will also involve important partnerships with state and federal agencies throughout the Great Lakes basin. The central goals of the project are to refine the quantitative spatial analysis of the effects of barriers on lake-tributary connectivity, and to prioritize restoration opportunities across the Great Lakes and within high-priority basins. There may also be opportunities to address tradeoffs between connectivity restoration and spread of invasive species into Great Lakes watersheds.

Essential qualifications for the position include substantial expertise in spatial analysis using GIS and modeling, a successful publication record, a collaborative approach to research, and a commitment to enhancing conservation practice. Candidates with specific experience in the Great Lakes or migratory fish research are particular encouraged to apply. The successful applicant will be expected to lead the analyses while communicating regularly with the project team and contributing to lab group interactions. The project will provide ample opportunities for both academic publication and gaining experience in conservation prioritization. Thus, we welcome applicants with parallel interests in conservation science and applied conservation.

The position will begin during summer 2011 (start dates are flexible). Funding is currently available for 12 months, and we anticipate seeking funding to extend the project. A competitive post-doc salary will be provided, including health benefits. Work will be based at the University of Wisconsin’s Center for Limnology in Madison, and will involve frequent interaction with staff from The Nature Conservancy and agencies. The Center for Limnology is home to a renowned cluster of aquatic sciences research groups, and features a vibrant atmosphere in which collegial interactions among faculty, staff, post-docs, and graduate students are the norm. Madison is widely recognized for high quality of life, including lively culture and arts scenes. Costs of living are moderate, and commuting to UW is straightforward by bus, bicycle, or foot.

To apply, please submit electronic versions of a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, three reprints (in pdf form), and the phone numbers and email addresses of three references to Val Seidel (vseidel@wisc.edu). The letter of interest should explicitly address relevant experience/expertise in the Great Lakes, ecosystem connectivity assessment, and quantitative methods of spatial analysis. Review of applications will begin 8 April 2011 and will continue until the position is filled. Any questions about the position may be directed to Peter McIntyre (pmcintyre@wisc.edu).

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.