Periphyton Ecologist

Summary about this job

Detail information about job Periphyton Ecologist. Terms and conditions vacancy

• Christchurch, New Zealand
• Permanent, Full time

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.

We are seeking an enthusiastic Periphyton Ecologist (or Benthic Algal Ecologist) to undertake research and consultancy projects on the effects of land-use and water allocation on stream and river ecosystems. Research would be expected to advance the science that underpins the sustainable allocation of water resources in New Zealand. Consultancy projects will include translating that science into practical applications for commercial clients.

This position focuses on understanding the interactions between flow regimes and freshwater ecosystems. Tasks will include:

• advancing the field of freshwater ecology by carrying out periphyton research suitable for publication;
• developing and championing NIWA tools that ensure freshwater resource management decision-making is based on the best biological and physical information, particularly with respect to maintaining periphyton communities within guidance limits;
• securing consulting revenue for NIWA through preparation of proposals and tenders, and client relationship building;
• providing internal and external advice on technical approaches to water allocation, ecological flow requirements and the restoration of instream habitats and ecological communities;
• developing and maintaining relationships with clients, councils, government agencies and stakeholder groups (including Māori and iwi).

Applicants will have a PhD in phycology, freshwater ecology or similar and experience in carrying out hydro-ecological research and assessments with practical application to water resource management. Experience in writing successful proposals, undertaking environmental consultancy and effective project management is required, as is an ability to write technical reports and science publications and to present work to lay and scientific audiences. You will need to be able to work collaboratively in multi-disciplinary teams, co-ordinate fieldwork programmes and undertake statistical data analyses.