The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) formed the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) in 1999 as the focal point for NOAA's coastal ocean science efforts. NCCOS uses cutting-edge research and high-tech instrumentation to provide citizens, coastal managers, public health officials, and other decision makers with reliable information needed to determine how best to protect environmental resources and public health, preserve valued habitats, and improve the way communities interact with coastal ecosystems. The NCCOS is headquartered in Silver Spring, MD but also has research labs across the nation. The NCCOS also has many assets including research programs, vessels, satellites, science centers, laboratories, and a vast pool of distinguished scientists and experts.

The Harmful Algal Bloom Forecasting Branch within NCCOS is looking for an Ecological Modeler to develop their portfolio in the area of ecological niche and habitat monitoring. Numerous potentially toxic phytoplankton are known to bloom in the Chesapeake Bay and pose a threat to shellfish, fish, public health and the ecology. In an effort to better protect fisheries and farmed shellfish in the Chesapeake Bay, early identification of potentially harmful algal blooms (HABs) is critical. The diversity of HAB species and their unique impacts on fisheries, aquaculture, recreation, and/or drinking water, necessitates the development of novel multi-species HAB forecasts. Since 2014, the NCCOS HAB-F Branch has been using satellite data to monitor phytoplankton in the Bay to support management activities. We are now expanding our efforts to model and forecast the occurrence of multiple HAB species in the Bay. A key part of this effort is understanding the current knowledge and data resources related to these blooms. The selected employee will synthesize current understanding of algal blooms and data for Chesapeake Bay and assist in the development of an ecological niche model through literature reviews, data synthesis, and engagement with the scientific and management communities. As new regions/bloom issues are identified, the new hire will assist in model development and research towards expanding our forecast and monitoring efforts to new regions.

The selected employee will assist with:

1) the development of coupled bio-physical oceanographic models and establish validation techniques

2) assist in satellite data processing, historical data curation and calibration and data analytics

3) assist with stakeholder engagement, as well as generating outreach materials and technical documentation.

4) develop peer reviewed research papers, presentations and be a key team member of the HAB Forecasting Branch

Qualifications:

The ideal candidate will have research experience, a demonstrated ability to work independently and part of a team, and have a working knowledge of habitat models for open ocean and coastal systems as well as experience with artificial intelligence. Additionally, a PhD in Oceanography, Aquatic Sciences, Marine Sciences, Limnology, Biological Sciences or a related field is desirable.

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