The Pacific Salmon Foundation is funding a research position in Dr. Sherryl Bisgrove’s lab at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, British Columbia. The successful applicant will conduct experiments aimed at understanding the temperature-tolerances of habitat-forming seaweeds; establish methods for preparing and maintaining propagules for long-term storage; and coordinate a consortium of stakeholders interested in developing and maintaining a biobank for marine macrophytes.

The project is concerned with mitigating the effects of climate change on habitat-forming seaweeds in the Salish Sea. The long-term goals of this project are:

1. Characterize potential differences in thermal tolerance between different populations with the intent of identifying heat-tolerant genotypes that
   could be targeted in conservation and restoration efforts, and
2. Establish a facility to preserve existing genetic diversity of marine macrophytes akin to the seed banks used to preserve biodiversity of land plants. The biobank project has been highlighted in this article:

https://www.eopugetsound.org/magazine/IS/seed-bank-sea

Ideal Qualifications:

• PhD in phycology, algal physiology, or near-shore ecology.
• Accomplished in lab tasks including culturing, microscopy, making media, managing inventory.
• Experienced in field work, especially inter- and sub-tidal; able to traverse hazardous terrain; carry heavy
  equipment; comfortable around and in water, ideally be a strong swimmer, diving skills extra bonus.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, especially for the purpose of building partnerships and
  performing outreach activities.

Minimal Qualifications:

• Completed PhD within the last 5 years.
• Background in relevant discipline such as marine biology, ecology, plant physiology, population genetics,
  etc.
• Two-year minimum commitment.
• Lab and field activities will be conducted on-site in Burnaby and surrounding areas; some computer
  work can be done remotely.
• Willing to help secure funding and communicate with stakeholders.

Application closure date: We will start reviewing applications on 2020 December 15, continuing until the successful candidate has been identified.

Start date: As soon as possible.

Position length: Two years pending annual review; possibly longer if funding permits.

Salary: Based on projected funding, salary will be ~$45,000 to $55,000.

For queries or to send application materials, contact:
Dr Sherryl Bisgrove
Department of Biological Sciences
Simon Fraser University
Burnaby, British Columbia