Lead Aquatic Ecologist – Freshwater Systems

Cherokee Federal; Columbia Township (MO); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Cherokee Federal is seeking a Principle Aquatic Ecologist to lead and support research on environmental stressors affecting freshwater and riparian ecosystems in Columbia, MO. You will design studies, analyze complex datasets, develop defensible findings, and communicate results to stakeholders.

The role demands a Ph.D., 10+ years of experience, and advanced proficiency in R and statistical modeling, with collaboration across federal and partner organizations.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in ecology or a closely related field is required.
• Minimum of 10 years of advanced, progressively responsible experience in relevant scientific research or natural-resource management is required.
• Subject matter expertise in freshwater ecology, contaminants, or restoration ecology is required.
• Experience designing and leading field and laboratory studies to address complex environmental questions is required.
• Advanced proficiency in R and statistical analysis is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, implementation, interpretation, and reporting of field and laboratory studies involving metals, contaminants, wildfire impacts, mining-affected lands, and freshwater aquatic and riparian food webs.
• Serve as a project and team lead; coordinate research activities with scientists, partners, and external collaborators.
• Develop robust study designs, sampling plans, work plans, and research products to meet client needs.
• Collaborate to evaluate contaminant movement and ecological effects in freshwater systems.
• Translate complex findings into practical materials for briefings, stakeholder meetings, and conferences.
• Deliver oral and poster presentations at national and international conferences.

Skills

Freshwater ecology

Statistical analysis in R

Bayesian modeling

Scientific writing & presentations

Independent work & time management

Collaborative skills

Education

Ph.D. in ecology or closely related field

10+ years of advanced, progressively responsible experience

Subject matter expertise in freshwater ecology

Tools

R

Job description

Cherokee Federal is seeking a Principle Aquatic Ecologist to lead and support research on environmental stressors affecting freshwater and riparian ecosystems in Columbia, MO. You will design studies, analyze complex datasets, develop defensible findings, and communicate results to stakeholders.

The role demands a Ph.D., 10+ years of experience, and advanced proficiency in R and statistical modeling, with collaboration across federal and partner organizations.