Job Information
Michigan State University(MSU) Research Associate-Fixed Term in East Lansing, Michigan
Position Summary
The research associate will have two sets of responsibilities:
(1)Apply innovative approaches to integrate hydrologic science and aquatic landscape ecology. Stream flow is a key determinant of watershed health, influencing habitat, stream fishes, other aquatic organisms, and numerous ecological processes. Previous efforts to characterize the condition of streams across the US have relied largely on datasets summarizing landscape factors to approximate condition, but they have not directly accounted for stream flows or the degree to which flows may be altered by various stressors. Integrating multiple dimensions of stream flow regimes into an assessment context is a critical step towards understanding the degree to which flow regimes may be impacted by current stressors and are likely to be affected in the future. In support of this need, the research associate will conduct an evaluation of stream flow data that may be available over large regions and a literature review of aquatic habitat assessment approaches. Based on characteristics of data available, the research associate will work collaboratively with a national group of stakeholders to integrate stream flow information into a large-scale assessment of streams and rivers. Depending on interest and available funding, a secondary responsibility of the research associate will be to contribute to other aspects of the assessment, including supporting efforts outside the conterminous US and contributing to previously developed analytical approaches to associate stream conditions with landscape factors.
(2) Contribute to efforts to decouple relationships between water withdrawals and stream flows in watersheds across Michigan. Efficient management of water withdrawals can help to support human uses of water while also meeting ecosystem needs. The research associate will lead an investigation to decouple relationships between water withdrawals and stream flows in select Michigan watersheds, with objectives including attempting to identify watersheds where relationships may be strongest, factors that contribute to strength in relationships, and effects of cumulative withdrawals occurring throughout watersheds. Regional stakeholders will be engaged in this process, including colleagues from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Degree
Doctorate -Hydrology and Environmental Assessment
Minimum Requirements
PhD in hydrology, hydrogeology, earth science, freshwater ecology, and/or related field within the last 5 years. Applicants must have a demonstrable understanding of watershed hydrology, evidenced by previous research outputs, as well as substantial knowledge of landscape influences on aquatic habitats and organisms. Expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), developing and working with hydrological models, data analysis and visualization, writing and modifying scientific code in Python and/or R are required. Applicants must be able to work independently and in collaboration with other researchers; publish findings in peer-reviewed journals; and write proposals and reports. This is a one-year position renewed annually with extension contingent on funding and performance. The job will involve travel and coordination among various stakeholders. The successful applicant will be supervised by Dr. Dana Infante.
Required Application Materials
Submit a cover letter, statement of research interests and career goals, CV, relevant publications, and contact information for three references.
Review of Applications Begins On
05/15/2024