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Eastern Illinois University

Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Description

The Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences in the Department of Biological Sciences at Eastern Illinois University invites applications for a postdoctoral research associate. The position will take a lead role on a collaborative project with cooperating agencies from multiple states and other universities investigating invasive carp in the Ohio River basin.

The research goals for the project involve:
  • Investigating the sources of recruitment and reproduction of invasive bigheaded carps in the Wabash River.
  • Assessing the impact of the invasive bigheaded carps on Wabash River food web dynamics.
  • Developing a genetic tool using metabarcoding to rapidly identify larval fish samples to species resolution.
  • Identification of the long-term trends in fish community assemblages of the Wabash using data collected via the Long-term Electrofishing program at EIU.
  • Preparing and publishing scientific manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals will be a major focus of the chosen candidate.
The Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences program has two tenure track faculty, a full-time research associate, between 8-10 master’s students and many undergraduate students. The postdoc will be part of a dynamic team working on a wide range of projects addressing various anthropogenic impacts on fish populations and aquatic communities. There will be opportunities to mentor students and participate in teaching if desired. We are housed in a newly renovated life sciences building and anticipate moving into a state-of-the-art science building during 2026.
 

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

A PhD (or nearing completion) in aquatic ecology or related field

Preferred Qualifications: We seek an independent, motivated scientist with a background in fisheries ecology. Those with a background in genetic techniques and/or statistical modelling are especially encouraged to apply. Applications are particularly welcome from researchers from underrepresented groups in academia.

Duration:
 The initial contract will be for 1 year with the strong possibility for extension of additional year based on anticipated additional funding.

Application Process: Email a cover letter, cv including the contact information for 3 references, and two representative papers to Dr. Robert Colombo (recolombo@eiu.edu), Dr. Eden Effert-Fanta (eleffert@eiu.edu), and  Mr. Dan Roth (drroth@eiu.edu).

Timeline: Review of applications will begin on May 8th and continue until the position is filled. Preference will be given to candidates that can start immediately; however, we have some flexibility in start date.

Benefits
Salary and benefits: A salary of $48,000 per year and a generous benefit package will be provided to the successful candidate. Benefits include health, dental, and eye insurance, as well as inclusion in the state of Illinois pension program. Leave time includes 24 vacation days, 10 sick days, and 12 university holidays per year. Additionally, candidates are eligible to be part of the UPI collective bargaining unit. The ability to serve as the instructor of record for additional salary in a departmental course will be considered.

 

Responsibilities

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Undergraduate Technician/Intern (Field and Lab)

Description

The Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences at Eastern Illinois University is seeking several seasonal fisheries interns and technicians to assist with general field and laboratory work associated with graduate research projects. Current projects include invasive carp reproductive ecology, stream fish community monitoring, and sportfish population dynamics on the Wabash River. Field work duties will include assisting graduate students with a variety of fisheries surveys, recording biological and environmental data, and maintaining field equipment. Fisheries surveys will be conducted on a variety of streams, rivers (Wabash and Illinois Rivers), and reservoirs throughout Central Illinois. Surveys will include barge electrofishing, electric seining, larval fish sampling, boat electrofishing, hoop netting, collection of water quality samples, and macroinvertebrate sampling. Laboratory work will include processing larval fish samples, assisting with water quality measurements, assisting with stream fish identification, assisting with fish aging techniques, and maintaining a clean and organized lab space. Internships will come with a monthly stipend, and per diem reimbursement for overnight travel trips.

Requirements

Progress toward, or completion of a Bachelor of Science degree in biology or closely related field is preferred for intern. Previous experience with fisheries field or laboratory work is preferred for intern positions and required for technician positions. Must be willing to work extended hours in the field or lab, occasionally in inclement weather or conditions. Must be able to carry 40 pounds of gear into and out of sampling locations. Will include occasional overnight travel during multiple day surveys.

To Apply: For full consideration please apply by April 7th, 2023, however additional applicants may be considered until all positions are filled. Please email cover letter, CV or resume, and contact information for three professional references to:

Dan Roth
Fisheries Researcher and Laboratory Manager
Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences
Department of Biological Sciences
drroth@eiu.edu
217-581-3100
MS Graduate Research Assistantship, Channel Catfish

Description

A MS graduate research assistantship is available in the Department of Biological Sciences’ Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences at Eastern Illinois University with a start date of August 2023. The project will investigate Channel Catfish population dynamics and recruitment in Central Illinois impoundments. The thesis research will include an outreach component involving local school groups. The candidate will gain a diversity of experiences in fisheries science by assisting with additional graduate student projects and working with fisheries professionals throughout the state at multiple levels (state fisheries biologists, university).    

We are in search of a self-motivated student that works well independently, and in a team setting. The candidate will assist with both field and laboratory sampling and data processing tasks. The position comes with a tuition waiver and a $1400/month stipend. Review of applications will begin June 26, 2023, and will continue to be accepted until the position is filled.
 

Requirements

Previous fisheries experience including field and lab techniques is preferred. A bachelor’s degree and an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 are required. Must be able to lift 40 pounds and work in inclement weather conditions. Must have a valid driver’s license with at least 4 years of driving experience.

Please send a cover letter, a CV (including undergraduate GPA), undergraduate academic transcripts (unofficial okay), and a list of three professional references to:

Daniel Roth-Fisheries Researcher and Laboratory Manager

Office: 2114 - Life Science Annex
Phone: 217-581-3100
Email: drroth@eiu.edu

Faculty Advisors:

Dr. Eden L Effert-Fanta, Professor
Office: 3078 - Life Science
Email: eleffert@eiu.edu
 
Dr. Robert E Colombo, Professor
Office: 2112 - Life Science Annex
Email: recolombo@eiu.edu
Website: http://ux1.eiu.edu/~recolombo
 

 

Benefits

Tuition waiver, student health insurance, per diem.