Position length: Up to 3 year appointment with potential for extension.
Application deadline: Review of applications begins March 13, and will remain open until filled
Salary: $50,000 per year plus benefits
Research budget: $25,000 per year
General Description:
The John G. Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Illinois is seeking candidates for a postdoctoral research associate to conduct research on migratory fish in the Great Lakes. This is a joint postdoctoral position with the Center for Limnology at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. The selected candidate, with guidance from both Shedd and UW supervisors, will be responsible for developing a robust research program of their own design that addresses Great Lakes migratory fish. A program that involves local stakeholders in research is preferred. Research is expected to be multifaceted, inform resource managers, and advance conservation and sustainable management.
Job Responsibilities:
The postdoctoral associate will be co-supervised by Dr. Chuck Knapp at Shedd Aquarium and Dr. Peter McIntyre at the University of Wisconsin. This dual-mentoring team will help the candidate to focus their research on important and feasible questions that can guide real-world management. Mentors will also facilitate other aspects of professional development, including exposure to the unique cultures of both non-profit and academic institutions. At Shedd, the associate is expected to communicate to a general audience via blogs, informal reports, video, and seminars. The associate is expected to work closely with federal and state management agencies as well as other non-government organizations, as appropriate. Research that includes multiple Shedd departments (e.g., Fishes, Animal Health) and/or a citizen science component is preferred.
Position Requirements:
Applicants must hold a recent Ph.D. in biology, ecology, natural resource management, zoology, or related field. The position requires strong skills in scientific research, database management, and communication to both the general public and researchers. Demonstrated excellence in publication and dissemination of research is expected, and experience with grant writing is desired. Applicants must have genuine interests in both applied research and public education, enabling them to make the most of the distinctive opportunities provided by the non-profit and academic environments. When not conducting field research, this position requires a minimum of 60% time spent at Shedd Aquarium.
To apply:
Please send a cover letter summarizing your interests and expertise, a one-page outline of the research that you would like to pursue, a curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references. The research vision is very important; decisions will be based upon a combination of candidate qualifications and project relevance to Shedd priorities. All materials should be combined in a single file, and sent to Tiffany Tuckett (jobs@sheddaquarium.org).
To discuss the specifics of this position, please contact Dr. Chuck Knapp (cknapp@sheddaquarium.org) and Dr. Peter McIntyre (pmcintyre@wisc.edu).