Postdoctoral Researcher in Coral Eco-Evolutionary Modeling (Hawai'i)

LOCATION: Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology (HIMB), University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Eco-evolutionary modeling to inform coral reef management within National Marine Sanctuaries

Coral reefs face unprecedented challenges due to climate change, necessitating a deeper understanding of their adaptive potential. This project aims to develop eco-evolutionary models to advance our understanding of coral reef responses to environmental stressors and evaluate management strategies in the Pacific Islands Region’s National Marine Sanctuaries, both existing and proposed. The project will investigate key adaptation mechanisms, including genetic diversity, heritability, dispersal and population growth rates of different coral species. We will work closely with stakeholders to test a set of management strategies with the model, including assisted gene flow, coral restoration and wastewater management. This research will provide critical insights for predicting reef futures and evaluating management interventions in a changing climate.

SUMMARY OF DUTIES/SKILLSETS

The successful applicant will serve as a Postdoctoral Researcher within the Marine Ecological Theory Lab <https://lmcmanus47.github.io/index.html> (PI Lisa McManus) at the Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. The successful candidate will contribute to the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries Pacific Islands Region (ONMS)/HIMB Pacific Remote Sites Partnership project. They will conduct eco-evolutionary modeling studies to inform coral reef management in National Marine Sanctuaries. Specifically, the successful candidate will develop and implement models simulating coral dynamics under various scenarios, perform sensitivity analyses, and manage data collection and analysis. Working with the PI and collaborators, they will adapt models for specific Pacific Islands reef systems, interpret results to link human actions to reef outcomes, and disseminate findings through presentations and publications. The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D., strong modeling and data analysis skills, and expertise in ecological modeling. Excellent communication skills are essential. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to coral reef conservation while advancing modeling skills and conducting impactful research. Preferred start date is September 2024 or soon after. Expected salary is approximately $65K USD per year.

Required qualifications:

Ph.D. in Ecology, Marine Biology, Oceanography, Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, or related field
Experience in ecological or eco-evolutionary modeling, including development, implementation and analysis
Programming experience in languages commonly used for ecological modeling (e.g., Python, Julia, R, or similar)
Strong publication record demonstrating novel, independent research and project completion
Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
Desirable qualifications:

Working knowledge of climate change impacts on marine ecosystems, especially coral reefs
Demonstrated aptitude for applying advanced quantitative and computational tools in a research setting
Experience with implementing ecological models in marine contexts
Applicants must apply online through the Careers page at https://www.rcuh.com/work/careers/ and submit their application by the closing date (Aug. 14th, 2024) to be considered for this recruitment. Search for Job ID # 224466.

Please reach out to Dr. Lisa McManus (mcmanusl@hawaii.edu) with any questions.