*JOB OPPORTUNITY:* *DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF **THE MARINE MAMMAL LABORATORY* The Marine Mammal Laboratory (MML) of the Alaska Fisheries Science Center (NOAA Fisheries) has posted a vacancy announcement for a permanent federal position as MML Deputy Director. This job is a full-time, Band IV, supervisory position in the federal ZP-401 series. The vacancy announcement is currently available for review. This position is open to all U.S. citizens and applications will be accepted during a 7-day open period from 24 – 30 September 2020. Information can be found at USAJOBS under the following link: Announcement number NMFS-AKC-2020-0057 https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/578503100. The Marine Mammal Laboratory ( https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/about/marine-mammal-laboratory) is responsible for conducting research on a broad range of marine mammals and ecosystems in Alaskan waters (from the North Pacific Ocean to the Bering, Chukchi, and Beaufort Seas) as well as in Washington, Oregon, and California (the Pacific Ocean’s California Current and associated waterways). Recent studies have focused on pinnipeds such as Steller and California sea lions; northern and Guadalupe fur seals; harbor, bearded, ringed, ribbon, and spotted seals; and cetaceans such as North Pacific right, bowhead, gray, humpback, beluga, and killer whales; as well as Dall’s and harbor porpoise. Species-specific information is gathered on abundance, trends, stock structure, habitat use, seasonal movements, and feeding ecology through the use of visual and photographic observations, acoustic studies, satellite telemetry and other remote sensors, genetic studies, and aerial-, vessel- and shore-based platforms. MML currently has a total of about 75 staff, including permanent employees and affiliate scientific collaborators. The MML Deputy Director is responsible for engaging in discussions about MML science priorities, overseeing the preparation and execution of the annual budget, and tracking external and internal scientific and administrative requirements. The incumbent also provides oversight for the annual development of the Alaska marine mammal stock assessment reports, including routine communication with Alaska Region and NOAA Fisheries Headquarters staff. Candidates are sought who have demonstrated leadership skills, supervisory experience, and a broad scientific vision. A Ph.D. in biology (or a related field) and a strong scientific publication record are considered highly desirable. This is a special opportunity to join and lead a talented and dynamic group of marine mammal researchers. We welcome applications from all qualified and interested members of the marine mammal research community. If that is you, please go to USAJOBS and submit an application. And please pass this notification along to others who may be interested as well. If you have any questions, please feel free to email me or give me a call (contact info below). All the best, John L. Bengtson, Director Marine Mammal Laboratory Alaska Fisheries Science Center National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA Seattle, Washington USA email: john.bengtson@noaa.gov tel: +1 (206) 930-6271