Research Scientist

Environmental Jobs Network - Paul Smiths, NY

Full-time - Senior

Paul Smiths, NY

About the position

Paul Smith's College Adirondack Watershed Institute (AWI) is seeking a dedicated Research Scientist to enhance its freshwater research and outreach initiatives. This role is pivotal in leading research and monitoring efforts aimed at understanding the human impacts on aquatic resources and developing effective solutions to safeguard clean water. The Research Scientist will collaborate closely with the Chief Scientist and other staff scientists, contributing to the advancement of AWI's mission through rigorous scientific inquiry and community engagement. In this position, the Research Scientist will spearhead AWI's water quality research and monitoring programs, which includes publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals. The role also encompasses long-range planning and project management for AWI's water quality initiatives, ensuring that research methodologies are robust and that project reporting is thorough. The Research Scientist will supervise the Research Associate, providing guidance and support in project management tasks. Additionally, the Research Scientist will be responsible for developing and managing database systems that facilitate real-time reporting of environmental data. This position requires collaboration with various partners, including lake associations, municipalities, and other institutions, to foster cooperative projects. The Research Scientist will also present research findings at public and professional meetings and engage with educational staff to support student research initiatives at Paul Smith's College.

Responsibilities

• Lead AWI's water quality research and monitoring efforts including the publishing of research in peer-reviewed journals.
• Support the long-range planning and project management of AWI's water quality programs.
• Coordinate AWI's aquatic plant and water quality field work including developing research methodologies and project reporting.
• Supervise and support AWI's Research Associate with project management.
• Develop and manage database systems to handle real-time reporting of environmental data.
• Work with AWI's leadership team to identify and cultivate funding opportunities to support AWI's work including grant opportunities, private donors, and fee for service.
• Coordinate with partners, e.g., lake associations, municipalities, other institutions, to collaborate on projects.
• Present AWI research and findings at public and professional meetings.
• Collaborate with AWI education in staff education workshops and events.
• Engage with AWI's efforts to actively support student research at Paul Smith's College.

Requirements

• PhD in Limnology, Aquatic Ecology, or Environmental Science.
• Three years of work experience in aquatic and environmental science.
• Experience leading and managing full-time and seasonal staff, and students.
• Experience managing field projects including familiarity with using and maintaining field equipment and following safety protocols.
• Quantitative analytical, writing and presentation skills, including proficiency with R and GIS.
• Proficient project management skills including grant writing, administration, and reporting.
• Ability to work some weekends and holidays.
• Understanding of the hazards encountered while working on lakes such as weather, navigation, ice hazards, and other safety issues.
• Ability to work in inclement weather, both off and on the water (including on ice covered lakes).
• Ability to hike distances up to 16-miles in a day while carrying up to 40lbs of field gear.
• New York State driver's license and driving record acceptable to PSC insurance carrier and AWI, which will enable authorization to drive College-owned vehicles.
• Ability to work with a broad range of diverse individuals and groups to form a safe and inclusive workplace.