Postdoc: Population demography of pinnipeds

[nicodb]

Population demography and foraging ecology of pinnipeds at Subantarctic Marion Island

Description:
The Marion Island Marine Mammal Programme (MIMMP) under the auspices of the University of Pretoria’s Mammal Research Institute, has monitored the populations of three species of pinnipeds and killer whales, Orcinus orca, at Marion Island for three decades. A great deal of research has in recent years been aimed at demographic aspects of the Marion Island population of southern elephant seals, Mirounga leonina, because a long-term longitudinal dataset is in existence (1983 – present). This mark-resight dataset, where virtually all pups born at the island (~13 000 to date) have been marked and resighted at 10-day intervals without pause since 1983, constitutes the foundation of population demographic studies on this species. The focus has in particular been on changes in population size, and causal factors contributing to these changes, both proximate and ultimate. This population has seen dramatic decline prior to 1994, followed by a short period of stabilization and currently an increase. Contention remains as to the fundamental drivers of these changes. Foraging studies conducted over the past decade, and the role of killer whales in the Marion Island system (particularly as potential top-down drivers), has been intensified in recent years. The role of large fur seal (Arctocephalus spp.) populations in the Island ecosystem, as potential competitors, is currently a major focus.

The postdoctoral position will be a part of a large MIMMP research team which is funded by the South African Department of Science and Techology, managed by the National Research Foundation (RSA) and supported logistically within the South African National Antarctic Programme. The successful candidate will be expected to play a senior role within the MIMMP. The candidate needs to have advanced biostatistical expertise in order to assist with further exploring the population dynamics and fundamental drivers of change for the abovementioned species, but in particular that of the elephant seals. The MIMMP is comprised of a highly energetic, productive and dedicated research team, and the candidate ideally must have excellent interpersonal skills, a relaxed but ambitious disposition, and a willingness to assist in a range of different projects within this programme.

Responsibilities:
1. Collaborate on manuscript preparation for publication (as priority)
2. Assist as co-supervisor/collaborator on postgraduate projects
3. Initiate post-graduate projects based on specific skills and data at hand
4. Act as primary biostatistician within the MIMMP

Minimum Requirements:
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in population modelling, vertebrate population dynamics and a strong foundation in capture-mark-recapture (CMR) methodology. Intimate knowledge of Program MARK and/or other CMR analytical programmes (e.g. MSURGE) is essential, as is proficiency with the R programming environment. The successful candidate will also have excellent writing and personal communication skills.
• Only applicants with a PhD in a quantitative ecology, biostatistics, applied mathematics or related field need apply.
• The successful candidate will have both statistical/mathematical and biological postgraduate qualifications/experience.
• The incumbent will have a healthy publication record in internationally accredited scientific journals.

Desirable Criteria:
• Additional skills include knowledge of formal concepts of likelihood and Bayesian inference. Preference will be given to applicants with a solid information-theoretic background.
• Preference will be given to candidates with some knowledge in MATLAB.
• Experience with top-predator ecology and/or knowledge of pinniped biology
• Experience with large databases
• Experience of living in first- and third-world countries.

Benefits:
• ZAR 150 000 / annum (tax-free), providing the successful candidate with a comfortable existence considering South African costs of living. Affordable University accommodation can be arranged upon request (within walking distance of the MRI).
• A relief expedition (6 weeks) to isolated and pristine Subantarctic Marion Island, under the auspices of the MIMMP.
• Opportunities for further field experience within South Africa/Namibia.
• Opportunities for international conference attendance (only if presenting).
• Dependent on performance during tenure, continued long-term future collaboration with the MIMMP may be offered.

Duty Station:
Mammal Research Institute (MRI), Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa

http://web.up.ac.za/default.asp?ipkCate ... &parentid=

Time Frame:
January 2011 to December 2013 (3 years), with the potential to start in July 2010, depending on further available funding.

Application procedure:

Prospective candidates should email the following information:

1. a covering letter stating why you are suitable for the position
2. full academic curriculum vitae (verified copies of transcripts/degrees not necessary upon first application, but will be requested at the short-listing stage)
3. the names, phone numbers and email addresses of at least three individuals who have first-hand knowledge of your research experience and professional abilities to:

Dr. Nico de Bruyn pjndebruyn@zoology.up.ac.za

and copied to:

Prof. Marthán Bester mnbester@zoology.up.ac.za

Applications should be sent before 01 March 2010.