Spatial Ecology GIS Specialist, Conservation Biology, UC Riverside
The Department of Center for Conservation Biology at the University of California invites applicants for an
Assistant Specialist for Spatial Ecology GIS in Conservation Biology. The purpose of this position is to specialist to
assist with geospatial components and data visualization for conservation research projects. The final candidate will
develop analysis in support of research on climate resilience in desert species and ecosystem characteristics
throughout the biodiverse inland desert of southern California, including Joshua Tree National Park. The project
activities will consist of developing tools for approaches to adaptive management that also include engagement with
underserved communities. A reasonable estimate for this salary is $56,600-$63,000.
Key research activities will be directed to collect, and analyze GIS data on species distribution, vegetation, climate
change projections and impacts, and socioeconomic trends with support from junior staff. In addition to aridland
vegetation distribution modeling, the position includes some fieldwork in a variety of natural communities
throughout the Coachella Valley, California, and outreach to multiple stakeholders. The specialist will have the
opportunity to develop skills in communicating conservation science to both technical and diverse lay audiences,
through creation of web-based tools, contributing to academic publications, and public outreach.
Basic qualifications at time of application for this position include: BS in Ecology, Conservation Biology or related
field, with graduate or equivalent work experience encompassing the use of GIS/spatial analysis tools and data
visualization.
Preferred qualifications for this position include:
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, ArcGIS/QGIS, R
• Experience manipulating, analyzing and interpreting statistical or environmental data
• Demonstrated ability to plan and conduct projects and communicate results to a research team in a dynamic
environment
• Experience working and communicating science to stakeholders and community members
• Ability to drive in California
Additional qualifications at time of hire for this position include:
• Experience with Python, web visualization (e.g. R-Shiny), and database management
• Proficiency in written and spoken Spanish
• Experience participating in complex projects, developing spatial planning or prioritization tools and coordinating
the work of peers and nonprofit partners
Advancement through the Specialist ranks at the University of California is through a series of structured, meritbased
evaluations, occurring every 2-3 years, each of which includes substantial peer input.
To apply: submit your CV, Cover Letter and Statement of Diversity
to https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/apply/JPF01693 along with the contacts of three references. Review of applications will
commence on March 16, 2023 and proceed until position is filled. For full consideration, applicants should submit
their complete applications prior to the above date.
For more information about this position, please contact Lynn Sweet Chair of the Search Committee. For questions
on application procedures and requirements, please contact Troy Hall Jr., Academic Personnel, at troy.hall@ucr.edu.
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer with a strong institutional
commitment to the achievement of excellence and diversity among its faculty and staff. All qualified applicants will
receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity,
national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
UCR is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. Its mission is
explicitly linked to providing routes to educational success for underrepresented and first-generation college
students. A commitment to this mission is a preferred qualification.
As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California SARS-CoV-2
(COVID-19) Vaccination Program Policy. All Covered Individuals under the policy must provide proof of Full
Vaccination or, if applicable, submit a request for Exception (based on Medical Exemption, Disability, and/or
Religious Objection) or Deferral (based on pregnancy) no later than the applicable deadline. New University of
California employees should refer to Appendix F, Section II.C. of the policy for applicable deadlines. (Capitalized
terms in this paragraph are defined in the policy.) Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose
additional requirements.