The Smithsonian Institution seeks an energetic, field- and data-oriented biologist to support marine animal telemetry research and to assist with activities of the Atlantic Cooperative Telemetry (ACT) Network. The position is based in SERC’s Fisheries Conservation Lab, led by Dr. Matt Ogburn (https://serc.si.edu/labs/fisheries-conservation). It is a one-year renewable position with up to three years of funding currently available.
The fellow will contribute to one or more grant-funded projects that involve applying acoustic telemetry to investigate coastal migrations of elasmobranchs, teleosts, and invertebrates. In the first year, the postdoc will primarily assist the ACT Network and regional stakeholders in coordinating with offshore wind energy companies and their relevant contract entities to securely manage and deliver acoustic telemetry data. This project includes assisting with the development of best practices and data product guidance to optimize the utility of acoustic telemetry data for decision-making processes. Additional opportunities involve new field research and data analysis exploring the habitat use and migration ecology of species inhabiting Chesapeake Bay and the western North Atlantic Ocean and engaging in the Smithsonian-led Movement of Life initiative.
The position requires a Doctoral degree in Biology, Marine Science, or related field and demonstrated experience in animal telemetry research (experience with acoustic telemetry of marine animals preferred). The applicant must be detail-oriented, responsible, and prepared to work in challenging field conditions (working on boats, hot and cold days, handling marine animals). Competent data entry and management skills are required (management and analysis of acoustic telemetry data using R preferred). Practical knowledge of field research procedures and biology and taxonomy of marine organisms, including tagging animals for acoustic telemetry studies, is preferred. Experience engaging with diverse stakeholders preferred.
The position is based at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center in Edgewater, MD and requires occasional travel. This is a full-time position with a comprehensive benefits package. The position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the US. The Smithsonian Institution is an equal opportunity employer, committed to a policy of nondiscrimination on the basis of race/ethnicity, national origin, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, marital/parental/caregiver status and disability. The SERC community recognizes the value of diversity in promoting innovative science and creative solutions, and we strongly encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
To apply, please send the following as a single PDF document to Matt Ogburn (ogburnm@si.edu): Curriculum Vitae, cover letter summarizing relevant experience, and the names and full contact information (email, phone, postal address) of three references.
Review of applications will begin on 17 August 2023 until the position is filled. Anticipated start date September or October 2023.
