Aquatic Ecologist / Limnologist / Plankton Ecology - Lake Champlain Research Institute, SUNY Plattsburgh
OVERVIEW
The Research Foundation for the State University of New York at Plattsburgh (RF-SUNY) is seeking candidates with varying levels of experience for the position of Aquatic Ecologist / Limnologist with The Lake Champlain Research Institute (LCRI) at SUNY Plattsburgh. Duties include serving the Institute’s scientific staff as project Coordinator for a study titled Deep Lake Limnology in Lake Champlain. This study involves the use of high-frequency data buoys to measure thermal profiles in real time and the assessment of plankton community responses to storm-induced shifts in lake thermal structure. This is a full-time, 12-month position with the Research Foundation for SUNY, a private, nonprofit corporation. Funding is available for a multi-year position. The RF offers comprehensive and low-cost health, dental, and vision insurance, basic and optional retirement plans, employer-paid life insurance, tuition waivers, paid time off, and other benefits.
This position is Monday through Friday, with paid holidays off and a desirable vacation package.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Core responsibilities include:
- Coordinate/manage Lake Champlain research on Deep Lake Limnology. Lead a team to deploy high-frequency data buoys and assess vertical structure in planktonic communities.
- Coordinate and participate in field data collection, to include limnological methods/plankton sampling, deployment of data buoys, and boat operation.
- Lead a team conducting taxonomy/Identification of zooplankton and phytoplankton.
- Manage buoy and community data sets, statistical analysis, and preparation of manuscripts for publication.
Other responsibilities include:
- Assist in the supervision and management of undergraduate and graduate interns.
- Participate in staff meetings.
- Assist in LCRI planning and support field and laboratory work for other research and monitoring projects as part of the Lake Champlain Research Institute team.
- Develop proposals for research funding.
Required Minimum Education/Qualifications:
- M.S. in the sciences, with a focus on aquatic biology or limnology and a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience.
- Familiarity with limnological field sampling techniques and boat operations.
- Evidence of taxonomic skills to identify freshwater plankton, including zooplankton and phytoplankton.
- Experience with R, analysis of community-level data including multivariate techniques, and ability to handle large data sets.
- Experience with project coordination/supervision in aquatic systems.
Relevant Experience:
Preferred Education/Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Ecology, Environmental Science, Biology or related field with experience in limnology and aquatic communities.
- Demonstrated record of scientific writing (e.g., peer-reviewed publications, technical reports) and experience as listed above.
Other Requirements:
- Valid driver’s license is required.
- Willingness/ability to operate a boat and obtain the necessary certifications.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Salary Range: $45,000 - $75,000 annually. Commensurate with education, qualifications, and field experience. The Lake Champlain Research Institute encourages applicants with varying levels of experience.
The Research Foundation offers a comprehensive benefits package to include paid time off.
Applicant Instructions: contact mihuctb@plattsburgh.edu for inquiries.
Submit vitae/resume, cover letter, list of references and a statement of research interests.
Research Foundation for SUNY
Box 2025-3
101 Broad Street, 260 Beaumont Hall
Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Fax# (518)564-2157
Email: RFHRApply@plattsburgh.edu
Position will remain open until filled.