Equatic Ecologist

The Research Foundation for the State University of New York at Plattsburgh (RF-SUNY) is seeking candidates with varying levels of experience for the position of Aquatic Ecologist / Limnologist with The Lake Champlain Research Institute (LCRI) at SUNY Plattsburgh. Duties include serving the Institutes scientific staff as project Coordinator for a study titled Deep Lake Limnology in Lake Champlain. This study involves use of high frequency data buoys to measure thermal profiles in real time and assessment of plankton community responses to storm induced shifts in lake thermal structure. This is a full time, 12-month position, with the Research Foundation for SUNY, a private, nonprofit corporation. The RF offers comprehensive and low-cost health, dental, and vision insurance, basic and optional retirement plans, employer paid life insurance, tuition waivers, paid time off, and other benefits.

This position is Monday through Friday with paid holidays off and a desirable vacation package. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Core responsibilities include:

Coordinate/manage Lake Champlain research on Deep Lake Limnology. Lead a team to deploy high frequency data buoys and assess vertical structure in planktonic communities. Coordinate and participate in field data collection, to include limnological methods/plankton sampling, deployment of data buoys, and boat operation. Lead a team conducting taxonomy/Identification of zooplankton and phytoplankton. Manage buoy and community data sets, statistical analysis, preparation of manuscripts for publication. Other responsibilities include: Assist in supervision and management of undergraduate and graduate interns. Participate in staff meetings. Assist in LCRI planning and support field and laboratory work for other research and monitoring projects as part of the Lake Champlain Research Institute team. Develop proposals for research funding.

Required Minimum Education/Qualifications:

M.S. in the sciences, with a focus on aquatic biology or limnology and a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience.

Relevant Experience:

o Familiarity with limnological field sampling techniques and boat operations. o Evidence of taxonomic skills to identify freshwater plankton, including zooplankton and phytoplankton. o Experience with R, analysis of community level data including multivariate techniques, and ability to handle large data sets. o Experience with project coordination/supervision in aquatic systems.

Preferred Education/Qualifications:

Ph.D. in Ecology, Environmental Science, Biology or related field with experience in limnology and aquatic communities. Demonstrated record of scientific writing (e.g., peer-reviewed publications, technical reports) and experience as listed above.

Other Requirements:

Valid drivers license is required. Willingness to operate a boat and obtain the necessary certifications.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Salary Range: $45,000 - $75,000 annually. Commensurate with education, qualifications, and field experience. The Lake Champlain Research Institute encourages applicants with varying levels of experience.

The Research Foundation offers a comprehensive benefits package to include paid time off.

Applicant Instructions:

Submit vitae/resume, cover letter, list of references and a statement of research interests.

Research Foundation for SUNY

Box 2025-3 101 Broad Street, 260 Beaumont Hall Plattsburgh, NY 12901 Fax# (518)564-2157 Email: [email protected]