Working/Functional Title
Research Associate, Decision Analysis
Position Summary
We seek a research associate to lead a decision analytic process (i.e., structured decision making) for climate resilience planning in the Au Sable River, Michigan, with a focus on fish habitat and the fish community in the system. The Au Sable, a blue-ribbon trout stream, is an iconic cold-water system that is home to Trout Unlimited and supports excellent brown and brook trout fishing. The associate will work closely with QFC staff, an M.S. student on the project, agency managers and biologists, and local stakeholders to frame the decision problem, develop and / or modify predictive models, collect relevant data, and help run SDM workshops. Experience modeling fish and / or aquatic habitat factors from landscape-scale information is preferred, as is an appreciation for the value of decision analysis and familiarity with analysis / simulation modeling of fisheries and ecological data. Some understanding of effects of changing climate on fish and aquatic habitat is desired. Interest in or experience with engaging agency personnel and stakeholders at the interface of technical analysis and resource management is also desired. The postdoc will work directly with Drs. Kelly Robinson and Dana Infante in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife / QFC. The Quantitative Fisheries Center has a strong reputation for developing relationships with relevant stakeholders for the research and the management of fisheries resources. This position is an excellent opportunity to gain experience highly relevant to professional positions in riverine fisheries modeling and decision analysis, as well as engagement with relevant management agencies and NGOs. Please see the QFC website (www.canr.msu.edu/qfc/) for more information about us, and a recent story about the project (https://tinyurl.com/2rb8zfyv) to learn more about project goals and concerns.
Please see https://msu.edu/together-we-will/ for the most up to date information about MSU policies.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Degree
Doctorate -Fisheries Science or related discipline
Minimum Requirements
PhD in fisheries science or related discipline with a strong record of research productivity in quantitative methods within the last 5 years. Applicants must be able to work independently and in collaboration with other researchers; publish findings in peer-reviewed journals; and write proposals and reports.
Desired Qualifications
Experience modeling fish and / or aquatic habitat factors from landscape-scale information is preferred, as is an appreciation for the value of decision analysis and familiarity with analysis / simulation modeling of fisheries and ecological data. Some understanding of effects of changing climate on fish and aquatic habitat is desired. Interest in or experience with engaging agency personnel and stakeholders at the interface of technical analysis and resource management is also desired.
Required Application Materials
Please submit your CV, letter of interest, and transcripts (unofficial).
Special Instructions
Review of applications will begin 8/1 and continue until filled, with the associate hopefully beginning in August–September 2021. Postdoc may be able to begin the position remotely, if necessary, because of the current pandemic.
Questions about the posting can be directed to Dr. Kelly Robinson (kfrobins@msu.edu) or Dr. Dana Infante (infanted@msu.edu).
Review of Applications Begins On
08/11/2021
Website
www.canr.msu.edu/qfc/ or www.fw.msu.edu
Department Statement
The Department of Fisheries and Wildlife was established in 1950 with faculty drawn from several different units. Since that time, both the faculty and the issues of importance in fisheries and wildlife have changed significantly. Our Mission, Vision, and Values build on our core strengths and prepare us for continuing change in societal needs, scientific understanding, and educational priorities.
Our Mission is to build local, national, and international capacities to conserve ecosystems that support fish, wildlife, and society through integrated programs in research, education, and engagement. We believe a diverse, inclusive working and learning environment enriches the department and fosters innovation in teaching, research, and engagement with partners and the public. We expect all members of the department to uphold the highest ethical standards in our work and personal conduct, with shared responsibility and accountability. We act in keeping with our values, mission, and vision.
MSU Statement
Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.
