Job Description A research associate is sought to assist in coastal ecology project, to include field collection of shorebird and invertebrate prey and habitat features, GIS analyses of land cover data, data analyses and preparation of reports and papers related to the project. The university values diversity and continually strives to maintain and promote an inclusive learning and research environment that embrace all students, faculty, and staff. The research project is funded by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. The research associate will: 1) Coordinate project logistics and team activities; 2) supervise field staff and participate in field data collection and lab analyses, 3) conduct needed boating in challenging coastal waters, 4) conduct GIS landcover classifications, 5) coordinate daily with private, state and federal collaborators, 6) conduct data analyses and prepare reports and peer-reviewed papers. The position requires work in coastal Virginia and some travel to and from Blacksburg to work on products. Required Qualifications * M.S. in natural resources; coastal ecology and/or wildlife conservation and management, or related field. * Knowledge of ecological science concepts, principles, and methods as applied to wildlife or other natural resource management sufficient to contribute to project design, quantitative data analysis and science communication. * Proficiency and experience operating motorboats in coastal nearshore environments. * Demonstrated skills in collaborating with others on teams to accomplish shared objectives. * Excellent communication skills and organizational skills. * Experience conducting data analyses and writing peer-reviewed publications Preferred Qualifications * Experience in project coordination and management. * Experience communicating scientific results and methods to agricultural landowners and agricultural and conservation professionals. * Experience mentoring research staff. * Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. * Knowledge of natural resource management in coastal settings Appointment Type Restricted Salary Information Commensurate with experience Review Date 9/2/2024 Additional Information The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check. About Virginia Tech Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually. Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development. Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law. If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Jennifer Phillips at jewolfor@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.