Research Scientist - Large Mammals

Do you consider yourself a subject matter scientific expert in large mammal biology? If so, consider this opportunity where you will provide scientific expertise and leadership for Ontario's research program in the area of large mammal conservation and management.

What can I expect to do in this role?

You will:

• design, coordinate and conduct a diverse, multi-taxonomic large mammal research program
• publish in scientific journals, and write newsletters, reports and other publications
• present at scientific meetings, workshops and training courses
• provide expert advice and recommendations for policy and program development
• provide technical evidence in court or other proceedings

How do I qualify?

Mandatory requirements:

• You possess a Ph.D. in a natural science disciple from a university of recognized standing or a Masters in a directly related disciple, with extensive research experience and the ability to achieve a Ph.D.
• You possess a valid class 'G' driver's licence or equivalent as recognized by the province of Ontario.

Scientific expertise:

• You have an expertise in three or more of the following broad areas: ungulate biology and management, bear biology and management (polar or black bear preferred), wildlife population and/or habitat modeling, wildlife health/disease, or canid biology and management.
• You have advanced knowledge of large mammal biology, theory, principles and practices needed to conduct research which is authoritative.
• You have practical skills and knowledge of procedures and approaches required to initiate, design, conduct, analyze and publish research in scientific literature.
• You are proficient in integrating population biology into a spatial or habitat mosaic with an expertise in two of the following: expertise in analysis of capture-recapture data, population viability analysis, metapopulation ecology, landscape ecology, community ecology, theory of reserve design and evaluation. A research background in wildlife population genetics, remote sensing and human dimensions around hunting and hunters is also applicable.

Knowledge and research experience:

• You have knowledge of resource management principles and practices, especially around management of large mammal populations and habitat, to develop and implement a research program that meets the requirements of Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF)'s mandate.
• You have practical knowledge of field and laboratory-based research gained from previous large mammal research and management experience.
• You have a demonstrated ability to work across taxanomic groups.
• You have knowledge of worker and supervisor responsibilities as outlined in the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

Communications and group leadership skills:

• You have excellent written communication skills to prepare and publish scientific papers and other articles for technical and non-technical audiences.
• You have strong verbal communication skills to present and discuss highly detailed or complex information to an audience-appropriate level and respond to management and client needs.
• You have demonstrated group leadership and interpersonal skills to oversee research and transfer programs, lead and train staff and generate positive interactions with coworkers and clients.

Analytical and problem-solving skills:

• You have strong technical and analytical skills to plan and perform advanced statistical analyses and to use modern, state of the art equipment for ecological research.
• You have advanced reasoning and problem-solving skills to formulate hypotheses and the ability to design a long term research program and solve research problems.

Project management skills:

• You have project management skills to plan and coordinate all resources to develop and maintain a research program to completion and within budget.

Please be advised that the results of this competition may be used to form an eligibility list of qualified candidates to potentially fill future vacancies represented by the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU). In accordance with the Collective Agreement, eligibility lists are shared with OPSEU representatives. By applying to this competition, you are providing consent that your name may be shared with OPSEU representatives.

All external applicants (including former employees of the Ontario Public Service) applying to a competition in a ministry or Commission public body must disclose (either in the cover letter or resume) previous employment with the Ontario Public Service. Disclosure must include positions held, dates of employment and any active restrictions as applicable from being rehired by the Ontario Public Service. Active restrictions can include time and/or ministry-specific restrictions currently in force, and may preclude a former employee from being offered a position with the Ontario Public Service for a specific time period (e.g. one year), or from being offered a position with a specific ministry (either for a pre-determined time period or indefinitely). The circumstances around an employee's exit will be considered prior to an offer of employment.

Remember: The deadline to apply is Monday, November 14, 2016 11:59 pm EST. Late applications will not be accepted.

We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for further screening or an interview will be contacted.