Postdoctoral Position U.S. Geological Survey, Patuxent Wildlife Research Center Eagle Population Models and the Influence of Wind Energy Development
The U.S. Geological Survey, Patuxent Wildlife Research Center (Laurel, Maryland) is seeking candidates for a postdoctoral position to develop an adaptive management framework for wind energy permitting with regard to incidental take of bald and golden eagles. In partnership with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which has regulatory authority under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, the post-doc will focus on modeling the interaction of eagles and wind facilities at two scales: (1) at the site-level, models are needed to predict lethal take of eagles as a function of exposure rate and collision risk; and (2) at the regional level, models are need to predict the population-level impact of lethal and non-lethal take. In both cases, these predictive models will be coupled with appropriate monitoring and adaptive feedback mechanisms to reduce uncertainty and adjust management actions, to support the simultaneous objectives of expansion of renewable energy resources and conservation of eagle populations. The ideal candidate will have a background in population modeling, migratory bird ecology, expert elicitation, decision analysis, and adaptive management. Proficient programming skills are required, particularly in MATLAB, Program R, or an equivalent computational language. The successful candidate will also have excellent writing and personal communication skills. Applicants are expected to have earned a Ph.D. degree in a relevant discipline. Preference will be given to U.S. citizens who have received a Ph.D. within the last 5 years. The position will be located in Laurel, Maryland. The desired start date is July 2012 or sooner, and the position is funded for 24 months. The salary level is very competitive. Review of application materials will begin March 30, 2012 and continue until a suitable candidate is found. If you are interested, send a curriculum vitae, a letter describing your background and interests, and the names of three references to Michael Runge ([email protected]). For further information, contact: Michael Runge ([email protected]), USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center 12100 Beech Forest Road, Laurel, MD 20708-4017 (301) 497-5748
