The Center for Limnology (CFL) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the University of Wisconsin Water Resources Institute is seeking a postdoctoral research associate to participate in a Midwest Glacial Lakes Partnership-funded project to explore the importance of aquatic vegetation as habitat for fish in north-temperate lakes. The ultimate goal for this project is to develop new habitat management strategies for the conservation of aquatic ecosystems across the Upper Midwest US. The candidate will be based at the CFL and be supervised by Dr. Zach Feiner (CFL) and Dr. Heidi Rantala (Minnesota Department of Natural Resources), joining a broad team of collaborators at the CFL, Michigan State University, University of Minnesota, Wisconsin and Minnesota Departments of Natural Resources, and other local stakeholders. Successful candidates will leverage extensive ecological datasets to investigate macrophyte communities, model relationships between macrophyte communities and fisheries characteristics in lakes, assess fishery responses to changes in macrophyte habitats, and develop tools to identify and prioritize habitat management strategies. Additional duties may include interfacing with local resource managers and lake associations, facilitating data sharing with the Midwest Glacial Lakes Partnership, creation of publicly available outreach and data visualization platforms (i.e., R shiny apps, online modules), and presenting and publishing research outcomes.
Requirements: Successful applicants will have a PhD (or will have graduated before they begin this project) in community or aquatic ecology, limnology, fisheries science, or a related field. Candidates will be highly motivated and able to work independently and as part of a team, and have demonstrated skills in big data management and analysis, proficiency in oral and written communication, and a strong track record of publication in peer-reviewed journals. Experience in public outreach and data visualization for public audiences is preferred but not required. Two years of funding are available.
How to apply: For questions or to apply, please submit a cover letter, CV, and contact information for three references to Dr. Zach Feiner (zachary.feiner@wisconsin.gov). The position will remain open until filled. UW-Madison is committed to providing opportunities to people from all backgrounds to help create a welcoming, empowered, and inclusive community. UW-Madison encourages women, minorities, veterans, and people with disabilities to apply.
Freshwater Ecology 