Research Specialist III - San Diego State University Research Foundation

This position is open until filled with the first round of resume reviews taking place on 4/29/2024. The salary rage for this position is $5,546.67 - $9,034.13, it is budgeted for $5,546.67 per month and is non-negotiable.

The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. in Biology, Ecology, Geography, or a related field.

Under direction, the incumbent works independently in the preparation of detailed plans for the research study, the compilation and interpretation of data, and the preparation of detailed reports on phases of major studies/research studies. Responsible for supervising and directing a small work group consisting of students, Grad Students, Research Assistants and lower level Research Specialists engaged in the compilation and analysis of data.

Examples of RSIII duties consist of developing scientific constructs in a laboratory; consulting with PI to confirm approaches, data collection and analysis; serves as lead on research project initiatives; collaborates with team to make recommendations for processing/analysis/interpretation of data based on up to date literature.

This advanced-level position for incumbents who can provide program leadership with a higher level of scope and responsibilities which requires a specialized knowledge, skill and experience relevant to the program/project.

Core Responsibilities 

The postdoctoral researchers will have an opportunity to lead research on a number of projects funded by NSF, CDFW, University of California, NOAA, and NASA, to advance applied conservation approaches to connectivity, restoration, land-use, drought and fire response, and climate readiness and resilience. The projects will use in situ ecological data to conduct quantitative analyses such as occupancy modeling, spatial analyses, population estimation, fire and drought data integration for decision support, and analysis of the impacts of climatic conditions on success of management, ecological restoration and conservation planning. The positions may require travel within California.

Position Specific Responsibilities

Wildlife landscape ecology (1 position)

Seeking a highly qualified and experienced candidate to join our research team and lead efforts aimed at understanding the dynamic relationship between animal distribution, abundance and landscape structure, composition, and configuration. Research experience in landscape connectivity, habitat modeling, and population estimation preferred.  Applicants should have strong interest and background in applied ecology, conservation, and spatial analyses. Quantitative proficiency in occupancy, sightability, mark/recapture, connectivity and/or other relevant quantitative approaches are needed.

Climate adaptation and resilience (2-3 positions)

Seeking one to two highly qualified and experienced candidates to join our research team and lead efforts in climate adaptation, climate readiness, and resilience. Candidates will join ongoing projects on drought preparedness and response, stewardship and restoration planning and action in natural lands, and fire resilience of Southern California montane forests. Relevant research areas include climate adaptation, integration of climate and remotely-sensed data for conservation, climate modeling with ecological data, and structured decision making for natural resource management in a changing climate. Candidates must be proficient in GIS and R or Python, with quantitative skills in remote sensing and/or experience working with large climatic data sets preferred.

Research Activities 60%

• Developing research questions
• Data collection, management, and analysis
• Research, development, and application of appropriate analytical tools
• Writing for manuscripts and grant proposals
• Communication with project team members and advisors
• Support PI with project reporting and deliverable development
• Coordinate with other postdoctoral researchers as a contributor to projects they lead

Management of Project Collaboration and Supervision 30%

• Coordinate with project team for outreach and engagement with project stakeholders
• Participate in preparing and presenting in project meetings and workshops 
• Contribute to facilitating feedback from partners and stakeholders
• Collaborate with team members about adapting project outputs based on feedback
• Participate in Conservation Ecology Lab weekly lab meetings
• Contribute to lab community by supporting undergraduate and graduate student development
• Supervise undergraduate or graduate student contributors to projects
• Provide guidance and leadership to postdoctoral researchers contributing to projects led by the incumbent

Other Duties and Responsibilities as Assigned 10%

• Work with outreach and communication teams on messaging for science delivery and dissemination
• Other administrative duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Equivalent to graduation from a four year university
  
• Three years of experience in technical research or statistical work experience

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ph.D. in Biology, Ecology, Geography or related field;
• Wildlife: Background in applied ecology and conservation. Proficiency in GIS, R and experience with occupancy, mark/recapture, connectivity;
• Climate adaptation: Experience with integration of climate and remotely sensed data for conservation and decision making. Proficiency in GIS and R or Python.

ADDITIONAL APPLICANT INFORMATION:

• Candidate must reside in California and live in a commutable distance from SDSU at time of hire.
• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results (including a criminal record check).
• San Diego State University Research Foundation is an EEO/AA/Disability/Vets/Title IX Employer.