1 Postdoc in Movement Ecology and 1 Spatial Biodiversity Data Scientist

Several positions are available associated with the Max Planck-Yale (MPY) 
Center for Biodiversity Movement and Global Change (https://mpyc.yale.edu). 
The MPY Center, an International Max Planck Center, is a partnership 
between Yale University and its Center for Biodiversity and Global Change 
and the Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Radolfzell. 

- Postdoc in Movement Ecology. We are seeking innovative thinkers with a 
strong quantitative background who are interested in using existing and, 
through Icarus, forthcoming movement data to address questions in the MPY 
Center remit. Qualifications for the position include include a PhD in 
ecology or behavior or a related field, past experience in collecting or 
analyzing movement data, a dedication toward conscientious and responsible 
work in a team, and strong communication skills. An ability to traverse 
community- and single-species perspectives and to address processes at 
different spatial and temporal scales are particularly welcome. The 
position offers thematic flexibility and in their application letter 
candidates should briefly describe their preferred area of activity. 1-2 
positions are available with a contract length of 2 or 3 years. 

- Spatial Biodiversity Data Scientist. We are seeking a qualified candidate 
to help oversee the management and analysis of species occurrence 
information, including movement data. The candidate should ideally have 
PhD, or a Master’s degree and equivalent experience, in ecology, 
environmental sciences, or a related field. The successful applicant will 
work in a team of researchers and informaticians to build, manage, and 
analyze biodiversity databases. The ideal candidate will be a quick 
learner, conscientious, and detail oriented. Qualifications include 
experience in working with geospatial and biodiversity data and the 
PostgreSQL/PostGIS environment, and python and shell scripting skills. A 
background in spatial analysis and modelling is welcome. The position is 
initially for up to five years and may be extended beyond that period. 

The MPY Center supports research and training around the use of new 
technologies such as GPS tracking and remote sensing to address questions 
in ecology, behavior, and global change. Flagship Center projects include 
the Icarus initiative, a space station-based near-global GPS animal 
movement observation system, Movebank, which supports the management and 
integration of movement data, and Map of Life, an infrastructure 
integrating global species distribution information for research and 
conservation. The MPY Center’s research goal is to use individual movement 
data to address patterns and mechanisms in species distribution, species 
coexistence, environmental niche associations, animal migrations, and 
biodiversity change. Open positions, with a target start date of fall 2018, 
include:

The positions will be based at Yale University with close collaborative 
links to the Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Radolfzell. The MPY 
Center will support workshops, training activities and exchanges linking 
the two locations, and Center postdocs and staff will be expected to engage 
in these activities. Yale University offers its postdoc and staff a 
generous package of benefits. Yale has a thriving and growing community of 
young scholars in ecology, evolution and global change science in the EEB 
Department, the Yale Institute for Biospheric Studies, the Peabody Museum, 
and the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies. The town is 
renowned for its classic Ivy League setting, 75 miles north of New York 
City. 

To apply please send, in one pdf, a short cover letter, CV and contact info 
for three referees to michelle.duong@yale.edu. The final selection process 
will begin on 20 April 2018. We passionately believe that a diverse team 
will enable a broader perspective and enhance creativity, and we strongly 
encourage applications from women and minorities.