Precision Aquaculture Scientist, The Conservation Fund
Under guidance from the Director of Research, the Precision Aquaculture Scientist leads USDA-ARS research objectives related to precision aquaculture technologies and develops and leads precision aquaculture research projects through industry contracts and/or collaborations with external researchers.
The Precision Aquaculture Scientist plays a key role in the Freshwater Institute’s research team and contributes to the team’s success through innovation and technical expertise in this growing field. The Precision Aquaculture Scientist delivers high-quality, leading edge science and peer-reviewed scientific journal articles, and through active engagement with the international research community ensures that The Freshwater Institute is at the forefront of precision aquaculture research.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead USDA-ARS research projects related to precision aquaculture.
- Develop and lead precision aquaculture research projects in collaboration with external researchers, and/or as contractual projects with external companies.
- Lead all research activities related to, but not limited to, sensor technologies, machine learning / vision, artificial intelligence, hardware and software development, and next-generation biological monitoring.
- Deliver regular high-quality peer-reviewed journal publications.
- Collaborate with other Freshwater Institute staff to deliver on research, engineering, and consulting projects, including authoring or co-authoring scientific articles and reports (internal and external).
- Present research results at US and international scientific conferences.
- Regularly interact with key industry stakeholders to determine their needs, and to steer Freshwater Institute research accordingly.
- Contribute to Freshwater Institute-run training and outreach events, including the Water Recirculation for Intensive Aquaculture short course and the Aquaculture Innovation Workshop.
DESIRED BACKGROUND AND PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES
- Doctor of Philosophy in a related field, such as engineering or computer science. Strong candidates with a Master’s degree and demonstrated experience will be considered.
- Experience and expertise in relevant areas such as sensor technologies, acoustic telemetry, automated control systems, and/or artificial intelligence and machine-learning platforms.
- Demonstrated scientific research project leadership.
- Demonstrated ability to perform effectively as a member of a research team.
- Ability to communicate effectively with internal staff, consultants, government and university scientists, private company representatives, and the general public.
- Must have a valid driver’s license and current passport.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:
The physical and mental requirements described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job:
- The ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally, sometimes for extended periods (e.g., 7-10 days).
- Standing for extended periods of time.
- Lifting 50 lbs. from the floor to benchtop height.