Coral Restoration Assistant Specialist, Marine Science Institute, University of California Santa Barbara

The Marine Science Institute at the University of California Santa Barbara is seeking an Assistant Specialist to support a cutting-edge project in coral restoration. This project, funded under a cooperative agreement with The Nature Conservancy, aims to optimize coral restoration strategies through ecological modeling and decision-support tools.

The Assistant Specialist will:

• Develop and refine ecological models linking biological processes to restoration logistics and ecological outcomes.
• Conduct sensitivity analyses and parameterization using empirical data and literature.
• Lead the development of a Shiny app for restoration practitioners to explore 'what-if' scenarios.
• Collaborate with stakeholders, including NGOs, government agencies, and academic partners, to ensure model relevance and applicability.
• Synthesize findings into a peer-reviewed manuscript to advance coral restoration science.
• Present project findings at webinars, stakeholder meetings, and conferences.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to restoring vital coral reef ecosystems while navigating the complexities of ecological restoration in a rapidly changing environment.

This appointment includes a competitive benefits package with medical, dental, and vision insurance and a UC retirement plan. Salary is commensurate with the applicant's qualifications and experience.

The Department is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community through research, teaching and service as appropriate to the position.

Department: https://msi.ucsb.edu/

A master's degree in ecological modeling or coral restoration techniques or a related field.

* A record of academic accomplishments, including peer-reviewed publications and contributions to the field of coral restoration or marine science.

* Proficiency in programming languages (e.g., R, Python) for ecological modeling and data analysis.

* Ability to collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams, including stakeholders such as NGOs and government agencies.

* Experience developing interactive tools (e.g., Shiny apps) for data visualization and decision-making.

* Demonstrated success in engaging with stakeholders and contributing to adaptive management frameworks.

• 3 required (contact information only)

The search committee will contact references of the top candidate(s) after the interviews. After references are checked, a top candidate will be chosen.

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, dishonesty or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
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• APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status. For the University of California's Affirmative Action Policy please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4010393/PPSM-20.