Marine Biologist: Second Posting  Marine biologist to lead population study of harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) and its role in the Salish Sea ecosystem.

Required: PhD in marine biology, or equivalent, experience in cetacean research, demonstrated ability to secure funding for independent research. A US citizenship or existing work visa for the US is required. The ability to relocate to Washington is required.

Desirable: Experience in wildlife population ecology, experience using acoustic instruments, experience handling boats, experience meeting with natural resource managers to recommend management policy, experience meeting with agencies and foundations, success obtaining funding for conservation research.

The successful candidate will be asked to take the lead in a project that is underway, to use acoustic monitors and land-based observations to estimate a population of harbor porpoise. The project leader will have the assistance of one support staff and work with the current PI. The initial, primary duties will be to direct measurements to obtain the detection probability of acoustic monitors. This will include placing, deploying and swapping acoustic monitors, analyzing data, assessing the accomplishment of the project and modifying design and execution as necessary. The second phase will be to work with a network of monitors and develop population assessment tools. The project leader will be expected to maintain contact with and coordinate with agencies working in the area and to be available to occasionally give public presentations. The project leader must be self-directed, able to take initiative and able to work as part of a team. The project leader must keep the success of the project a high priority and will be encouraged to develop innovative, original research and publish.

Salary is dependent on experience. Work will begin in October. We hope to have selected someone by September. Please send a cover letter detailing experience relevant to this position and a resume to aileen@pacificbio.org.