Fisheries Spatial Population Modeller - Senior

NIWA is a dynamic research organisation whose purpose is to enhance the economic value and sustainable management of New Zealand's aquatic resources and environments, to provide understanding of climate and the atmosphere and increase resilience to weather and climate hazards to improve safety and wellbeing of New Zealanders. NIWA is New Zealand's largest and pre-eminent provider of climate, freshwater and marine science.

The Population Modelling Group at NIWA (https://www.niwa.co.nz/) seeks a Senior Fisheries and Population Modeller to join our Wellington based team to lead the development and application of methods including novel approaches for addressing fisheries management problems, both within the New Zealand EEZ and internationally. As part of this role, you will develop capability within the Population Modelling Group, and contribute to NIWA's strategic fisheries research direction.  

The successful applicant will join a team of fisheries population biology, ecology and stock assessment staff, and will apply statistical and mathematical techniques to problems related to the distribution, abundance, and dynamics of fished populations, and species such as seabirds and marine mammals taken as fishery by-catch. The position supports both consultancy and research projects, focusing on fisheries stock assessment and the effects of fishing on the environment. Cross-disciplinary interactions are encouraged. You will lead analytical CCAMLR (Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources) work including presenting at national and international meetings as a stock assessment expert. This work requires specific travel commitments. You will engage in international stock assessments, with work expanding into the SPRFMO (South Pacific Regional Management Organisation) region, Tonga, Indian Ocean and the Pacific Community (SPC). There is also the opportunity for field activities such as sea voyages if desired.

To be successful for this position you will have a breadth of mathematical, statistical, modelling and programming skills in fisheries analysis, especially spatial population modelling, and take on advisory and mentoring roles with colleagues. A PhD specialising in quantitative fisheries or ecosystems research would be advantageous. You will have a proven track record preparing research tenders, presentations to stakeholder groups, reports and scientific papers and demonstrate the application of relevant statistical principles and methods to fisheries or marine ecosystem questions.

The 290 strong NIWA Wellington campus situated on the shores of beautiful Evans Bay provides a unique multi-disciplinary work atmosphere with expertise across every aspect of the marine environment readily available for advice or collaboration. NIWA has a convenient location and a flexible family-friendly ethos. Wellington, the capital city, has a vibrant arts and cultural life and provides easy access to the nation's decision makers.
Please apply online here.