Nat Res Research Scientist – Senior

This position will assist with two separate projects: 1) Develop statistical models and spatial data to evaluate ecological limits of hydrologic alteration (ELOHA) in Wisconsin streams. This project will help determine how changes in stream flow regime from groundwater withdrawals and land use change affect stream fish communities, and will provide the scientific basis for evaluating tradeoffs between these activities and the conservation of stream ecosystems. 2) Develop a tool for prioritizing barrier removal to provide access by northern pike to spawning habitat on tributaries of Green Bay. This project will be conducted in collaboration with The Nature Conservancy, and will help guide dam removal and the replacement of poorly functioning road crossings. Specific duties: 50%-Assist with all aspects of these research projects, including manipulating and analyzing spatial data with GIS software, 20%-developing and evaluating statistical models, 10%-reporting project findings in reports and scientific journal articles, 10%-communicating with project collaborators and other stakeholders. Also, 10%-provide limited assistance with similar tasks on other department projects.

Knowledge Required:

A bachelor’s degree in environmental science or related field, with at least two years of research experience, coursework and practical experience with statistical methods in ecology, experience with ArcGIS and Microsoft Access software, skill in scientific writing.

Desired qualifications:

Master’s degree in aquatic ecology, first author of at least one published article in a scientific journal, experience with R statistical software.

Duration: Approximately May 1, 2012 to October 31, 2013