Fisheries Research Associate
The Consortium for Wildlife Bycatch Reduction (“Bycatch Consortium”), based at the New England Aquarium (NEAq), is a collaborative research program between the fishing industry and scientific institutions with the goal of reducing bycatch, especially of threatened non-target species. Its project portfolio includes the development and testing of innovative fishing gear modifications in the lab and with fishermen. The Consortium is seeking a Fisheries Research Associate to coordinate and conduct research involving three of its projects: (1) Whale-release ropes in the lab and with lobster trap (pot) fishermen in the Gulf of Maine; (2) Acoustically released pop-up buoys on board research and fishing vessels in the Gulf of Maine; and (3) Ship-based deployment and evaluation of shark bycatch deterrents on George’s Bank.
**This is a one year grant-funded position upon hire.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1. Provide orientation and training to fishermen for implementing boat-based tests of experimental fishing gear.
2. Coordinate other outreach functions with them and their fishing associations in fulfilling the objectives of these projects.
3. Provide prototype ropes and shark bycatch deterrents to fishermen (which may involve hands-on work to integrate weak sleeves into new ropes), and collecting ropes from fishermen at the end of sea trials.
4. Ensure that trial data is being properly collected and recorded, and will participate in fishing trials on board lobster and longline fishing vessels.
5. Carry out lab tests of whale-release ropes working from the campus of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, and be expected to co-author reports and journal publications.
QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Training and Experience
* Minimum of a Master’s Degree in marine science, fisheries engineering, or a closely related field required.
* Minimum of one year of relevant professional work experience.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
* Have outstanding abilities to communicate and coordinate fieldwork with fishermen.
* A strong preference is for a research coordinator that is rooted in, or deeply familiar with, the eastern US lobster and/or longline fishing industry.
* Comfortable being at sea which might be for multiple days and nights at-a-time.
* A strong foundation in scientific methods combined with knowledge and respect for the local fishing industry are important.
* Excellent communication and analytical skills, exceptional writing ability, and an attention to detail are essential.
* An acceptable candidate will have authored published papers in peer review journals and/or technical reports.
For more information and to apply online please visit: http://neaq.applicantpro.com/jobs/
New England Aquarium is committed to diversity in the workplace and is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC.