The National Wildlife Research Center (NWRC) in Fort Collins CO seeks a Research Fellow to develop novel methods of risk assessment for prevention and response to agricultural and disease pests using ecological and genetic surveillance data. Specific activities are to develop practical modeling tools to be used in: 1) risk assessment of spatial invasions of pests, genetic elements, and/or diseases, 2) determining optimal disease or pest management solutions in spatially-structured populations, and 3) developing policies for novel biotechnologies that could be used in pest management. This is an excellent opportunity to develop models that will shape policies for regulation of novel disease and pest management technologies. The candidate will be highly motivated, innovative and possess a strong quantitative background in spatial processes and genetics of populations and/or diseases, and proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., R, Matlab, C++, etc…). Skills in machine learning, optimization, applied statistics, bioinformatics, bioeconomics, population genetics, and/or spatio-temporal population or disease modeling are preferred. The candidate will be given substantial latitude to pursue research interests within the scope of the position. The position is for 2 years with possibility of extension for an additional two years. Below is a description of research opportunities that fall within the scope of the position and other details of the position.

Specific aims within the scope:

• To develop statistical approaches for predicting the spatial spread of disease or pest invasions, and identifying predictors of spatial spread, by jointly considering genetic and ecological data. Examples of focal systems include African swine fever in wild boar, avian influenza virus in wild birds, and feral swine.

• To develop optimization methods for guiding management decisions of pests in space and time. The methods will address optimal management in spatially-structured disease/pest populations.

• To develop modeling tools for assessing the potential effectiveness and risk of non-lethal genetic tools such as gene drive for controlling pest populations. This effort will involve collaboration with regulatory officials in APHIS and have the opportunity to develop new approaches to decision-making in biotechnology for regulation of novel biotechnology.

Position details and how to apply:
NWRC is a Federal research agency within the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The position will be advertised formally on USAjobs from 12/13/18-12/19/18 as announcement number: 24WS-APHIS-MC-2019-0182. Applications must be submitted through USAjobs by the deadline for consideration. Any questions regarding the position can be e-mailed to: kim.m.pepin@usda.gov. The position will be advertised as an interdisciplinary position (GS 11/12: Biologist/Statistician; where starting salary of GS 11 ~$66k + benefits annually). Candidates must be US citizens. The application process will require submission of unofficial transcripts, resume, and a cover letter. Resumes should list technical skills along with education, experience, publications, and other typical resume information.