Postdoctoral Research Scientist (f/m/div) in Fisheries Population Modelling

Institut für Binnen- fischerei e.V.; Potsdam; Vor Ort; EUR 50.000 - 70.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A research institute in Germany is seeking a scientist to conduct analyses and gather data on inland fisheries. The position focuses on species in northern Germany, requiring a doctoral degree and experience in fisheries population dynamics. Responsibilities include organizing data collection, developing population models, and publishing findings in scientific journals. Candidates must have strong statistical program expertise and the ability to communicate in English effectively. A valid work permit in Germany is necessary for the position.

Qualifikationen

• Doctoral degree with emphasis in fisheries population dynamics or stock assessment required.
• Expert knowledge of statistical programs for stock assessment.
• Experience in peer-reviewed publications.

Aufgaben

• Plan and organize data collection for fisheries.
• Develop population dynamics models.
• Publish results in scientific journals.
• Coordinate field and laboratory work.

Kenntnisse

Statistical analysis

Data collection

Written communication

Modeling skills

English proficiency

GIS analysis

Ausbildung

Doctoral degree in fisheries population dynamics or related field

Tools

Stock Synthesis

CASAL

Template Model Builder

JAGS

STAN

Jobbeschreibung

Inland fisheries are globally recognized for their importance in providing locally sourced protein, offering recreational uses and supporting livelihoods. Sustainable fishing is key to ensuring that these benefits are available in the future, and reliable information on population dynamics and stock status can help sustain vital stocks in the long run. A key challenge of inland fisheries is collecting sufficient data from many relatively small waterbodies driven by external factors, and then effectively using collected data to compare and evaluate fishery management options. Small-scale inland fisheries are thus often characterized as data-poor, while also being subject to rapid environmental changes. Assessing population status and identifying sustainable management strategies are thus especially challenging.
We are seeking a scientist to collect data and conduct analyses to describe population dynamics, the role of environmental covariates, and assess stock status of inland fisheries in northern Germany. The project focuses specifically on assessing vendace stocks in lakes, pike perch in the lower Havel River, and collecting preparatory data and parameters for other species. The results of this challenging endeavor will be used to help develop recommendations for sustainable fishing practices and monitoring strategies. Findings will be published in peer-reviewed journal articles as well as magazines and newsletters for local fishers, anglers, and stakeholders.

Tasks

• Planning and organizing collection of catch, effort, length, and other relevant data from commercial and recreational fisheries
• Compiling information on important life-history traits for species of interest
• Reviewing literature to summarize and describe data-poor stock assessment approaches
• Developing and running population dynamics models that account for key population processes and environmental covariates
• Coordinating field and laboratory work with colleagues under supervision
• Presentation of results in presentations to scientists, fishers, and managers
• Publication of literature review and study results in peer-reviewed scientific journals
• Traveling on multi-day business trips alone and with other scientists

Minimum Qualifications

• Doctoral degree with an emphasis in fisheries population dynamics, modeling, or stock assessment
• Experience collecting and summarizing data and parameters for stock assessment programs
• Clear communication in written and spoken English
• Expert knowledge of one or more modern statistical programs commonly used for stock assessment (Stock Synthesis, CASAL, Template Model Builder, JAGS, STAN, etc.)
• Experience with decision support analyses such as structured decision making or management strategy evaluation
• Peer-reviewed publications in scientific journals
• A valid residence permit with right to work in Germany is required to begin this position but is not required at the application stage.

Preferred Qualifications

• At least five years of experience leading multiple relevant projects to completion
• Comfortable conducting basic spatial analyses using GIS programmes
• Experience working on cross-cultural, interdisciplinary research projects
• Experience with Bayesian state-space population models
• Fluent in German