*Two year postdoctoral position in seabird conservation*. The Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST <http://depts.washington.edu/coasst/>) of University of Washington’s School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, in partnership with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, seek a Postdoctoral Research Associate.
COASST is a 17-year old citizen science program focused primarily on rigorous, effort-controlled, standardized, and independently verified data on the identity and condition of beach-cast birds. COASST data are collected monthly at ~450 sites from northern California north to Cape Lisburne, Alaska by a diverse collective of hundreds of coastal residents who are committed to coastal stewardship and science as a basis of responsible decision-making. Additional information on site characteristics and citizen participation, as well as verification and QAQC post-processing, bring the total database fields to over 200. This project is focused on data mining with a particular objective of using the COASST dataset to further scientifically-based natural resource management along the West Coast, and with a goal of publication in the peer-reviewed literature. Potential projects include: · modeling the factors affecting deposition rate as a precursor to establishing a credible estimate of total carcasses (an index for mortality) · creating a time/space and taxon specific model of oiling sensitivity We seek an enthusiastic, creative team-player who wants to apply their quantitative skills to the intersection of citizen science, coastal ecology and applications to resource management. The ideal candidate will bring unique skills to add to the COASST team of faculty, students and staff; and will be available to start by September 2015. Screening of applicants will begin on July 1, 2015; *applications should be received by June 30th, 2015* to ensure consideration. Applications should include: (1) letter of interest (2) a curriculum vitae, including publications, (3) the names and contact information of four individuals who can provide a letter of reference. Please send all materials and any questions to Sarah Drerup at [email protected] -- Hillary Burgess University of Washington
