Senior Ecologist jobs in West Chester, PA

Quantitative Disease Ecologist Research Investigator, Senior The Wildlife Futures Program (WFP), a wildlife health partnership between the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine (Penn Vet) and the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) is seeking a quantitative disease ecologist to join our team. In this role, the Ecologist will lead research projects with a focus on model building to interpret large datasets related to wildlife disease. In addition to working directly with disease modeling there is a need to develop models of wildlife populations. Initial projects will focus upon analyzing survival rates and other population indices of the avifauna of the Eastern US as well as WNV incidence. The goal is to better understand any effect WNV may have on bird populations. The position provides the opportunity for the candidate to help shape future research questions and develop projects in the future. Participation in the preparation of scientific papers and grant proposals, and attendance at scientific meetings is also required.
In addition, this position would provide quantitative modeling and statistical support for the entire Wildlife Futures Program. The program has a growing and diverse research program and this position would facilitate using state-of-the art mathematical models to fulfill the goal of advancing wildlife health through adaptive management strategies. The goal is to complement existing skill sets in the program which include linear modeling, landscape genomics, population genetics, molecular virology, and Phylodynamics.

The position is located at PennVet New Bolton Center in Chester County, PA. New Bolton Center is located in the beautiful Brandywine Valley where there are many nearby opportunities for outdoor recreation and cultural attractions, including Longwood Gardens, Brandywine River Museum of Art, vineyards, breweries, and a vibrant restaurant scene including downtown Kennett Square.

This position is contingent upon Grant Funding

• Conduct disease ecology research that uses large datasets and complex models to make inferences about pathogens effects on wildlife populations
• Provide statistical and modeling support for the Wildlife Futures Program across projects.
• Aid in the development of new research projects, including the development of the analytical framework to ensure rigorous and effective research outcomes that aid in disease management.
• Lead and work collaboratively to prepare manuscripts and present work at conferences
• Communicate and relay results to PA Game Commission personnel and to various interdisciplinary teams of academic researchers both at Penn and collaborating institutions
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned

• PhD in Ecology or related field with specialization in quantitative analyses, and 5-7 years experience.
  Demonstrated experience analyzing large datasets to infer wildlife population trends and interpret effects of pathogens. Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Bayesian modeling. Must have the ability to work in multiple programing languages (e.g., R, python, Stan and INLA) and communicate analyses and code to others. Experience in geospatial modeling, including ArcGIS and spatially explicit models of disease incidence. A familiarity with messy ecological data and ability to handle, clean, and processes large datasets. Proactive, flexible, and innovative; can adapt to changing priorities and needs with an ability to work under short deadlines. Excellent communication and teamwork abilities with proven experience working in interdisciplinary research environments and collaborating closely with state agency partners. Prior experience working with bird population modeling is strongly preferred. Demonstrated ability to convey complex information to diverse audiences is required.

Kennett Square, Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine $43,888.00 - $95,000.00 Annual Rate

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