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.