The Smithsonian Institution seeks an energetic, field- and data-oriented biologist to support marine animal telemetry research focused on fish migrations in Chesapeake Bay. The position is based in SERC’s Fisheries Conservation Lab, led by Dr. Matt Ogburn, and is based in Edgewater, MD. It is a one-year renewable position with two years of funding anticipated. This is a full-time position with a comprehensive benefits package, and requires occasional travel.

The fellow will contribute to field research and data analysis for a multi-species acoustic telemetry study of fish and invertebrate ecology and connectivity. In the first year, the postdoc will lead field research capturing and tagging three fish species with different life histories (likely river herring, sheepshead, and Spanish mackerel) and assist with analyses of existing data for other species. Additional opportunities involve engaging in the Smithsonian-led Movement of Life initiative, integrating telemetry studies with habitat restoration in Chesapeake Bay, and long-term monitoring of fish and invertebrate communities.

The position requires a Doctoral degree in Biology, Marine Science, or related field and demonstrated experience in animal telemetry research (experience with acoustic telemetry of teleost fish preferred). The applicant must be detail-oriented, responsible, and prepared to work in challenging field conditions (working on boats, hot and cold days, handling marine animals). Competent data entry and management skills are required (management and analysis of acoustic telemetry data using R preferred). Practical knowledge of field research procedures and biology and taxonomy of marine organisms, including tagging animals for acoustic telemetry studies, is preferred. Experience engaging with diverse fisheries stakeholders preferred.