Research Scientist I

Department Contact: Kasey Pregler, kpregler@nmsu.edu

Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants

Advertising Summary: This position is for a researcher to conduct genetic research to understand the expansion of smallmouth bass in the Grand Canyon below Lake Powell. Invasive smallmouth bass were first discovered below Lake Powell in the Colorado River in 2022. Genetic samples have been taken from captured individuals each year since then to better understand their expansion down river in the Grand Canyon and inform management. We seek a researcher to use kinship genetic analysis to better understand SMB population dynamics in this region (e.g., distribution, abundance, & reproduction).

Position Details

Position Title: Research Scientist I

College/Division: Agricultural,Consumer & Env Sci Col

Department: 303500-FISHERY AND WILDLIFE SCIENCES

Location: Remote

Offsite Location (if applicable):

Target Hourly/Salary Rate: Commensurate with qualifications.

Appointment Full-time Equivalency: 1.0

FLSA Status: Exempt

Bargaining Unit Announcement: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

Contingent Upon Funding: Contingent upon funding

Standard Work Schedule: Standard (M-F, 8-5)

If Not a Standard Work Schedule: 

Job Duties and Responsibilities: ***POSITION IS FROM DEC 14, 2026- AUGUST 15, 2027 AND IS CONTINGENT UPON FUNDING***
Processes and verifies research data on freshwater fish. Data analysis, report/publication writing. Analyze genetic data to understand reproductive success and non-native expansion of smallmouth bass. Draft reports or manuscripts based on pre-existing data and data collected in the field by stakeholders. Holding meetings to update funders and stakeholders on results from genetic analyses. Assist in the coordination and set up of field trips. Data organization and entry. Conference attendance to present findings.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience: 
Associate's Degree + 7 years of relevant experience or a Bachelor's degree + 5 years of relevant experience.

Equivalent Qualifications: 

Preferred Qualifications: 
Considerable experience in fish related research.
Experience with conservation genetics and analysis of genetic data.
Experience working with agency practitioners on conservation topics.
Experience working with non-native fish species related issues.
Track record of publishing in peer-reviewed literature.
MS degree in fisheries or related field preferred.

Special Certification/Licensure: 

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Environment: Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.

Physical Effort: No or very limited physical effort required.

Lifting Requirements: Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 10 pounds or some standing or walking.

Risk: No or very limited exposure to physical risk.