Postdoc: Predictive Modelling of Deep-Sea Bioresources

Postdoctoral Researcher

Predictive modelling of Deep-Sea Bioresources
Ryan Institute
Ref. No. NUIG 098-16

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for a full-time fixed term position as a Postdoctoral Researcher with the Ryan Institute at the National University of Ireland, Galway. This position is funded by the SFI project Exploiting and Conserving Deep-sea Genetic Resources and is available from 1st September 2016 to contract end date of 31st August 2021.

Job Description:
The successful candidate will participate in a Science Foundation Ireland project that aims to elucidate novel natural products from sponges and corals in Ireland’s offshore waters and increase knowledge of their economic value and distribution. This specific post will use mathematical modelling techniques to produce maps predicting areas in Irish waters with the greatest biodiscovery potential, to maximize the economic impact of future biodiscovery work.  Georeferenced species data will be extracted from existing high-resolution video and video to be collected on cruises during the project.  Predictive species distribution models will be constructed using standard techniques with each species assigned a cost according to their relative economic potential as derived from Bayesian models, allowing hotspots of biodiscovery potential to be determined.

Essential Requirements

•       Applicants must have completed a PhD.
•       Demonstrable record of research on topics related to the post, as indicated by dissertation research, reports, peer-reviewed publications etc
•       A strong background in biogeography, spatial ecology, species distribution mapping, conservation biology or a related discipline is essential.
•       Track record in a research and development environment
•       Experience of identifying benthic macrofauna

Desirable Requirements
•       Experience of video analysis
•       Experience of identifying faunal groups relevant to the project such as corals and sponges
•       Experience using ArcGIS or equivalent
•       Knowledge of R
•       Experience using Marxan
•       Candidates should be available to participate in research cruises.
•       Authorship of peer-reviewed publications
•       Presentation of work at conferences
•       Excellent communication and organizational skills; high motivation; and strong documentation, oral and interpersonal skills.

Salary: €37,750 per annum      (public sector pay policy rules pertaining to new entrants will apply)

Start date: 1st September 2016

Further information about the Ryan Institute is available at http://www.ryaninstitute.ie/

Informal enquiries concerning the post to Louise Allcock at louise.allcock@nuigalway.ie<mailto:louise.allcock@nuigalway.ie>

To Apply:
Applications to include a covering letter, CV, and the contact details of three referees should be sent, via e-mail (in word or PDF only) to Suzanne Nolan at Suzanne.nolan@nuigalway.ie<mailto:Suzanne.nolan@nuigalway.ie>
Please put reference number NUIG 098-16 in subject line of e-mail application.

Closing date for receipt of applications is 5.00 pm 9th August 2016

Interviews are likely to be held in the week beginning 22nd August 2016

National University of Ireland, Galway is an equal opportunity employer.

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