Specialist in pelagic fishes with emphasis on fisheries acoustics

The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute in Reykjavík, Iceland has vacant a full time permanent position for specialist in pelagic fishes with emphasis on fisheries acoustics.

Changes in ocean currents and temperatures in Icelandic waters in recent decades have influenced the migrations and distributions of many fish stocks. This influence is most obvious in pelagic stocks, for example, as significant changes to the migration pattern and distribution of capelin. The focus of this position is assessment of abundance, distribution and biology of capelin in relation to ecological and environmental factors. The specialist will also participate in monitoring cruises for assessment of the species.

Main duties

The main objective of this position is to use fishery acoustic surveys for pelagic fish species discrimination and quantitative estimation for assessment of abundance, distribution and biology in relation to ecological and environmental factors. Special emphasis will be on the capelin stock in the Iceland – E-Greenland – Jan Mayen area. Duties will involve evaluation of single- and multi-frequency and in future broad-band acoustic data. This includes project planning and administration, organization and participation in research cruises, data analysis, and publication of results.

Qualifications

Applicants are required to have a PhD or M.Sc. in marine science, desirable with expertise in acoustics. However, candidates with a PhD in other fields where acoustic science has been applied will also be considered. Experience in related studies on marine fish stocks is desirable. The candidate needs to be fluent in English with good written and oral communication skills. A strong background in fisheries acoustics, working with acoustic measuring equipment and analysis of acoustic data, is desirable as duties will involve evaluation of acoustic data. There will be a strong emphasis on teamwork, so strong interpersonal communication skills are necessary. The applicant will also have to be able to work independently in the analysis of data and authorship of reports and regularly undertake and report project activities. Proven ability to produce quality scientific publications is essential.

Applications should be sent to umsokn@hafogvatn.is or mailed to the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute, Skúlagata 4, 101 Reykjavik. The position is equally suited for men and women. Applications should include a cover letter, a complete CV and contact information for three references. Salaries are according to wage agreements between the Ministry of Finance and the appropriate union.
The deadline for applications is 13th of May 2018 and the applicant should be able to start as soon as possible. 

For further information contact Kristín Helgadóttir, Head of human resources manager (kristin.helgadottir@hafogvatn.is) and Þorsteinn Sigurðsson, Head of the Pelagic Division (thorsteinn.sigurdsson@hafogvatn.is).

About the employer

The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute (MFRI) is leading in marine and freshwater research in Iceland, providing advice on sustainable use and protection of the environment. The MFRI is highly regarded in the scientific community, active at an international level, with close ties to international marine and freshwater research institutes, and universities. The MFRI headquarters are in Reykjavik. In addition, the institute has two research vessels, and branches around Iceland. The MFRI has around 190 employees and offers good, challenging and creative working environment.