Research Technician in Marine Food Web Modeling
Arizona State
University
Applications are invited for a technician position to
contribute to an international project on interactions between whales and
fisheries. The position is available from September 1, 2007. The
technician will develop and manage a database for sources of information needed for ecosystem modeling (Ecopath
with Ecosim). This includes compilation of marine fisheries and
biological data needed for food web modeling purposes from available databases,
literature and other sources, and preparation of data for incorporation in
mass-balance food web model. Incumbents must have a thorough
understanding of the theory behind tasks being performed, and will be required
to work independently but remain in close communication with team members. The
data technician will also assist with preparation of documents and
materials needed for workshops held for the purpose of disseminating results
from the project. The person will be based at Arizona
State University
in Tempe, and may be required to travel to Canada
for project purposes.
Examples of Duties:
- Performs
scientific data collection, analyses and syntheses involving routine
procedures characterized by availability to work independently and
reliably on assigned tasks.
- Maintains
detailed records of studies conducted; organizes data; prepares data for Ecopath input and records modelling
results.
- Compiles
data and generates statistical data for analytical purposes using Access; makes preliminary Ecopath analyses and assists
researchers in interpreting the data.
- Conducts
literature searches to find diet, production, consumption or biomass information about the trophic groups of the
food web models.
- Writes
summaries of projects, documenting location, findings and procedures used
and assists in writing reports by conducting literature searches and
background research; prepares bibliographies as required.
- Interacts
regularly with the project postdoc, who is the lead ecosystem modeler.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Knowledge
of ecosystem or food web modelling techniques and principles as well as
experience working with Ecopath with
Ecosim.
- Experience
in mining and compilation of data needed for foodweb modelling (fisheries
time series, biomass, diets etc of functional groups in marine
ecosystems), including database skills (Access).
- Working
knowledge of fisheries management techniques, including stock assessment
methods, total allowable catches, catches per unit of efforts, etc.
- Experience
in working independently in association with remote collaborators.
- Skill in
both verbal and written communication.
- Skill in
analyzing and evaluating data.
Minimum Qualifications:
Masters degree in marine biology, fisheries science or
related discipline; OR, Four years research experience appropriate to the area
of assignment; OR, Any equivalent combination of experience and/or education
from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved.
To apply:
Send CV, statement of relevant research experience and interests, and contact information for 3 references to leah.gerber@asu.edu. Closing date: 8/15/2007, or until a successful candidate is identified. Arizona State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer