Hawai’i Cooperative Studies Unit
HCSU POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH ANALYST (MARIANA SWIFTLET) – ID# 224217.
CLOSING DATE: April 16, 2024, or until filled. Applications received after this deadline may be considered only if the position is not filled or up to the date a selection has been approved by the RCUH (whichever comes first).
INQUIRIES: Lori Bufil 808-932-7977 (Hawai‘i).
Please apply directly on the RCUH website to be considered for the position.
Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Hawai’i Cooperative Studies Unit (HCSU) at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo (UHH) in collaboration with the United States Geological Survey Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center (USGS PIERC). Work location is in the USGS PIERC office in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on the island of Hawai‘i. Telework (from employee’s residence city and state) may be permissible subject to review and approval by Principal Investigator and RCUH. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws.
MONTHLY SALARY RANGE: $5,000 - $5,750/Mon.
DUTIES: Contributes to the conservation of Pacific Island birds using molecular genetic techniques and analysis. Uses next-generation sequencing technology to sequence genomes and create high throughput techniques for specific conservation applications. Leads a conservation genetic study of the yayaguak (Mariana swiftlet, Aerodramus bartschi) to understand the level of genetic isolation among different cave colonies and evaluate evidence of inbreeding. Sequences the genomes of birds from multiple caves to assess genetic relationships and diversity. Drives to field sites. In addition, develops and validates low-impact genetic mark-recapture methods for monitoring swiftlet populations using a high throughput approach (e.g., ddRAD, GT-Seq) to identify individuals from feathers collected below roosting sites and assist in developing models to translate this genetic sampling approach into tools for estimating abundance, survival, recruitment, and gene flow. Compares this approach with on-going field studies of mark-recapture banding, radio telemetry tracking, and productivity to validate results. Additionally, assists with other ongoing genetic studies of imperiled Pacific Island birds, such as Hawaiian honeycreepers. Communicates results of research with state, federal, and/or international agencies and researchers. Carefully documents analysis and performs data management and database archiving. Reviews relevant literature and works with the research team leads and collaborators. Authors or co-authors scientific manuscripts related to conservation genetics of Pacific Island birds. Assists with preparing all research products for the United States Geological Survey (USGS) policy and quality reviews, such as Fundamental Science Practices (FSP). Edits and formats scientific manuscripts. Produces project summaries for internal or general distribution at scientific meetings, workshops, and presentations, including outreach products for different audiences.
PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS:
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EDUCATION |
PhD from an accredited college or university in Bioinformatics/Genomics, Ecology, Biology, Zoology, Fisheries/Wildlife, or other related field. |
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EXPERIENCE |
One to three (1-3) years of experience working or conducting research in the field of genomics, bioinformatics, ecological modeling, and applied statistics or data analysis. Includes experience with study design, scientific writing, and publishing peer-reviewed scientific papers. |
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KNOWLEDGE |
Must have proficiency in molecular biology and in commonly used bioinformatic programs for analysis of high throughput sequencing data. Must have familiarity with nest-generation tools for high throughput analysis, such as ddRad or GT-Seq. |
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ABILITIES & SKILLS |
Must possess strong molecular biology, data management, and quantitative analytical skills. Demonstrated ability to publish manuscripts in mainstream scientific journals. Ability to evaluate and analyze existing techniques and procedures. Demonstrated excelled oral and written communication skills. Ability to work independently to manage, analyze, and interpret written reports and data. High degree of attention to detail, high level of organization, and problem-solving skills. Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team. Ability to assist in field work on related projects. Must possess a valid driver’s license (and if use of personal vehicle on the job is required, must also have valid personal driver’s insurance equivalent to Hawai‘i’s No-Fault Driver’s Insurance) and maintain throughout the duration of employment. Ability to effectively conduct work remotely (e.g., telework) as applicable. Post Offer/Employment Condition: Must be able to complete the UH Information Security Awareness Training (ISAT) within two (2) weeks from date of hire, and re-certify every twelve (12) months. If selected for fieldwork, must possess Certification in First Aid/CPR (or be able to obtain the certificate following the training provided within six (6) months from date of hire) and maintain throughout duration of employment. Must be able to complete the USGS-PIERC vehicle safety training within six (6) months from date of hire. |
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PHYSICAL/MEDICAL DEMANDS |
Must be able to work at remote field sites where exposure to hot and cold temperatures, heavy rainfall, mosquitoes, and difficult terrain is common. Must be able to bend, walk, and hike over rough and uneven terrain for fieldwork. Must be able to lift and carry equipment weighing up to forty (40) pounds. |
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POLICY/REGULATORY REQUIREMENT |
As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies, procedures, and trainings and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawai‘i's and/or business entity's policies, procedures, and trainings. Violation of RCUH's, UH's, or business entity's policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.). |
SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS:
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Experience with applications of conservation genetics such as translocation, genetic rescue, and population viability. Experience in the use of statistical models for the analysis of management decisions or adaptive management. Familiarity with Hawai‘i wildlife and climate change conservation issues. Familiarity with historical land use in Hawai‘i, present-day restoration projects, and conservation issues centered around native Hawaiian forests and watersheds. |
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please go to www.rcuh.com and click on “Job Postings.” You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Supervisory References, 4) Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawai‘i Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to rcuh_recruitment@rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-7262. Please visit https://www.rcuh.com/document-library/3-000/benefits/rcuh-benefits-at-a-glance/ for more information on RCUH’s Benefits for eligible employees.
RCUH’s mission is to support and enhance research, development and training in Hawai‘i, with a focus on the University of Hawai‘i.
RCUH is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, marital status, reproductive health decision, citizenship, gender identity or expression, domestic or sexual violence victim status, military/veteran status, or other grounds protected under applicable federal and state laws, except as permitted by law.
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