Research associate in movement ecology of migratory birds: University of Saskatchewan

Description: A research associate position is available with Dr. Mitch Weegman in the Department of Biology at University of Saskatchewan. The position is funded for 3 years, with likely extension, and provides an opportunity for immediate impact among projects to maximize ecological discovery and conservation planning through field studies and modelling.

The research associate will streamline use of GPS-acceleration duty cycles among thousands of devices for migratory birds, develop code for collation of millions of GPS and acceleration fixes, and help design online resources sharing spatial information from devices. The research associate will be responsible for managing large budgets (>$2M) and coordinating tracking device orders. This role supports study of movements and behaviour of American black ducks, Atlantic brant and eastern mallards, with five graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. The research associate will conduct field work in eastern Canada and the US for deployment of devices. The successful applicant will have numerous opportunities to lead development of objectives and analyses for papers within and among projects.

Prerequisites: Competitive candidates will have an undergraduate and master’s or PhD degree in ecology, statistics, data science and analytics, computer science or a closely related field, and interpersonal skills to lead discussions among collaborators. Preference will be given to those who can demonstrate a strong quantitative background (e.g., experience with Program R, Bayesian methods, spatial analysis) and knowledge of migratory bird ecology and management. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license.

Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Salary and benefits:  $60,000-70,000 Canadian plus benefits

Start date: 7 Nov 2022

Last date to apply: 2 Sept 2022 or until a suitable candidate is selected

To be considered for this position, please send the following (preferably as a single PDF) to Dr. Mitch Weegman (mitch.weegman@usask.ca):

(1) Letter of interest summarizing your experience, (2) Curriculum vitae or resume, (3) University transcripts (unofficial are fine), (4) Contact information for three references.