Postdoctoral Scholar in Freshwater Ecology
School of Aquatic and Fishery Science
University of Washington
The Freshwater Ecology Lab at the University of Washington seeks to hire an enthusiastic and self-
motivated Postdoctoral Scholar in the School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences. The successful
applicant will be advised by Dr. Julian Olden and will work closely with staff at the Washington
Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) to better understand current and anticipate future threats to
salmon in the Chehalis River Basin, WA. The Freshwater Ecology Lab contains a cohesive mix of
undergraduate students, graduate students, post-docs and visiting international scholars. We play
hard and work even harder … and are looking for same in the applicant.
Responsibilities
We seek a highly motivated postdoctoral scholar for an ongoing project that aims to elucidate the
challenges facing Pacific salmon in the Chehalis River Basin arising from invasive species and
ongoing climate change. Working closely with WDFW collaborators, the postdoctoral scholar will
generate novel scientific questions and publish and communicate use-inspired research that
leverages a wealth of biological and environmental data already collected in support of the Aquatic
Species Restoration Plan of the Chehalis Basin Strategy.
Potential questions include:
What are the independent and combined risks of predation associated with a suite of native
and non-native predatory fish species as juvenile salmonids outmigrate from headwaters to
estuary/nearshore environments?
What are the estimated predation impacts of multiple predators using a combination of
molecular techniques, DNA mixture modeling, and stable isotope analyses?
Where are thermal refuges in the Chehalis River Basin, and how does refuge availability and
characteristics affect salmon and nonnative fish population abundance and persistence under
projected climate change?
How can physiology be better incorporated into individual-based and species distribution
models to help assess the impacts of warming on salmon and nonnative fishes across broad
spatial extents?
These are just a few questions of potential interest. Considerable scope exists to further personal
scientific interests within the broader context of salmon conservation, invasive species management,
climate change, hydrology and stream temperature dynamics.
Salary
$65,508 annually plus benefits; or as mandated by a U.S. Department of Labor prevailing wage
determination. Postdoctoral scholars are represented by UAW 4121 and are subject to the collective
bargaining agreement, unless agreed exclusion criteria apply. For more information, please visit the
University of Washington Labor Relations website.
Duration
The ideal start date is September 2023 but can possibility be negotiated. The initial appointment will
be 100% FTE for 18 months, with potential renewal for 6 or more months depending on performance
and funding.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will:
have a PhD in ecology, fisheries, environmental sciences or some related discipline at the time
of appointment
have a high degree of statistical fluency (e.g., general and generalized linear models, mixed
effects models, Bayesian statistics)
have considerable experience programming in R and familiarity with Python and ArcGIS
adopt a rigorous and scholarly approach to their science, with a strong track record of
presentations and publications
be a respectful, professional, and reliable team player who values creating and maintains
strong collegial bonds
have excellent time management skills; accomplish research goals by creating realistic but
ambitious plans and initiating open communication when plans must be modified
have the willingness and the courage to discuss issues openly (i.e., to give and receive
feedback, to celebrate successes, and to discuss ways to confront challenges)
Location
The position will be in-person at the School of Aquatic and Fishery Science (SAFS) at the University
of Washington, Seattle, Washington. The University of Washington is the largest publicly funded
university in North America and is a recognized leader in science, engineering, and technology. The
School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences is the top-ranked fisheries program in the US (and top-five
globally). It is recognized for contributions to aquatic ecology, natural resource management,
molecular ecology, fisheries management, and acts as a primary source of balanced scientific advice
in relation to the management and conservation of marine and freshwater ecosystems. Faculty, staff
and students have access to myriad aquatic habitats and rich biological resources and are involved in
interdisciplinary partnerships with other academic programs, as well as public and private
organizations and environmental and regulatory agencies. Seattle is a vibrant and progressive city
with ample opportunities for recreation and city-living. Julian values the fact that science is a social
expertise, and that true creativity and authentic collaborations arise from face-to-face interactions. For
this reason, this an in-person position, and fully remote working will not be considered.
Apply
To apply email a cover letter that addresses your interest, experience (in response to the
requirements stated above) and future career goals, curriculum vitae, most relevant (3) publications
(PDF), and contact information (not letters) for at least three references to: Dr. Julian Olden, School of
Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of Washington at olden@uw.edu.
Screening of applicants
will occur immediately and will continue until a suitable candidate is found. The University of
Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will
receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation,
gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or
genetic information.