Research Associate Freshwater Fish Ecology and Conservation Job type: Two year term position, with possibility for extension
Location: Northwestern Ontario with base in Thunder Bay or Sioux Lookout, Ontario Closing date: 30 September 2006 Anticipated start date: 15 December 2006 Salary: $45-50K (CAD) plus benefits. Research funds are also available. Job Description: Wildlife Conservation Society Canada seeks a dynamic individual to establish a long-term research and monitoring program focused on freshwater fish communities in northwestern Ontario. The objectives of the project for which WCS Canada is seeking field leadership are to gain a better understanding of freshwater systems in the boreal shield of Ontario, and work with others in the region to improve knowledge of the impact of forest management and other development activities and increased road access on freshwater fish populations and communities. The objectives of the position are to: Design and implement a field-based monitoring program as a foundation for long-term engagement that focuses on measuring responses of freshwater fish populations and communities to landscape change at the development/roadless frontier; Increase knowledge of distribution and relative abundance of selected fish species north of Ontarios managed forest boundary by conducting field inventories and synthesizing available relevant databases; Develop strong working relationships with other knowledgeable parties, such as First Nations communities, treaty organizations, tribal councils, government agencies, tourism outfitters, and non governmental organizations; Undertake research on specific fish conservation issues related to proposed or likely resource developments or critical conservation areas and/or the development of land use and management tools. In close collaboration with other WCS Canada staff, use information derived from this research and from biological and technical expertise on boreal wildlife to inform land use planning decisions and relevant policy at provincial and community levels. Qualifications: Ph.D. with a strong field-based background in fisheries ecology, conservation biology and landscape and/or freshwater ecology; Demonstrated strong working knowledge of, and experience with freshwater conservation issues in northern North America (preferably boreal regions); Excellent communication skills, including the ability to write, articulate, and synthesize information for diverse audiences; Strong interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to work effectively in a cross-cultural and interdisciplinary work environment; Self-motivated, and comfortable with and capable of working in remote, isolated field conditions. About WCS Canada WCS Canada was established as a Canadian conservation organization in July 2004. Our mission is to conserve wildlife and wildlands by improving our understanding of and seeking solutions to critical problems that threaten key species and large wild ecosystems throughout Canada. We implement and support comprehensive field studies that gather information on wildlife needs and then seek to resolve key conservation problems by working with a broad array of stakeholders. We also provide technical assistance and biological expertise to local groups and agencies that lack the resources to tackle conservation concerns. WCS Canada is independently registered and managed, while retaining a strong collaborative working relationship with sister WCS programs in more than 55 nations. The Wildlife Conservation Society (www.wcs.org) is a recognized global leader in conservation and for more than a century has worked in North America promoting actions such as bison reintroduction, pioneering field studies, parks creation, and legislation to protect endangered wildlife. To apply: Please send cover letter detailing research and conservation interests and experience, the names of three references, and cv to: [EMAIL PROTECTED], or to: Justina C. Ray, Director Wildlife Conservation Society Canada 720 Spadina Avenue, #600 Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 3B3 www.wcscanada.org For more information, contact Justina Ray, [EMAIL PROTECTED]