Post-doc in statistical ecology: development and consolidation of biodiversity indicators from the Vigie-Nature programme
Context Vigie-Nature citizen science programme, initiated with STOC-EPS more than 30 years ago, produces for many taxa structured data over large spatial and temporal scales (multi- species data; semi quantitative data; data associated with circumstantial co-variables). Organized into a big database, these data provide a particularly relevant base for exploring the effects of global changes on biodiversity at multiple spatial and temporal scales. An output of the research conducted using these data is the documentation and production of biodiversity status indicators (synthetic information reflecting biodiversity trends) whose changes in space and time can be interpreted in terms of dynamics of environmental and / or anthropic pressures. There is indeed a growing demand for this type of information, at various decision- making and organizational scales (Europe, country, region, municipalities). Missions At the interface between research in macroecology and social demand for the production of indicators, this project will rely on the state of the art of the statistical methods available for the analysis of structured data. The aim will be to develop a clear methodology and relevant tools to ensure the sustainable update of indicators by the existing team of engineers. In addition to strong methodological and statistical skills, a successful candidate will have excellent written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to work both in autonomy and as part of a team. Overall, excellent social skills are required for extensive collaborations. Profile Ph.D. in Statistical Ecology (i.e., a statistician with strong experience in ecology or ecology with strong skills on spatial and temporal sampling plan issues and statistical methods adapted to long time series collected at many sites). Qualifications -Strong experience with statistical tools, in the development and application of Bayesian methods and hierarchical modeling -Solid programming experience (at least with R) required, ideally for structured data analysis -Experience in database management (ex: PostgreSQL, MySQL) -Knowledge of occupancy models and / or state-space models - Interest in the field of application, macroecology, citizen sciences or naturalism would be counted as an advantage Work location The mission will be carried out within the research teams of the UMR CESCO involved in the analysis of citizen sciences and will require close collaboration with the engineering team of the Vigie-Nature platform. Appointment details Location: Paris Museum of Natural History (Jardin des plantes) Starting date: January 1st, 2018 Contract: Fixed-term contract, 1900-2100 € net depending on the appointee’s qualifications and experience Duration : 12 months, possibility to renew Information and application The application file must consist of a CV and a cover letter. These documents will have to be sent in the form of a single PDF entitled “Application_IndicatorsVN_LASTNAME_Firstname". Application should be submitted before November 12, 2017 to: anne.dozie...@mnhn.fr
