Job Abstract

The Oliver Lab at the Bren School of Environmental Science & Management is seeking a highly motivated data scientist to conduct research and analyses on a variety of projects investigating wildlife responses to anthropogenic change. The Oliver Lab is a growing group of wildlife ecologists that apply data science techniques to pressing questions in global change ecology.

The research projects involve analyzing large animal movement datasets to understand a variety of questions including how human activities, such as climate change, influence wildlife behavior and mortality. The data scientist will contribute to collaborative projects within the group by applying their data science skills to create efficient, reproducible workflows that support the research interests of the group as well as leading their own research.

The data scientist will be primarily responsible for a variety of tasks including the following: (1) creating a database for managing and analyzing animal movement data; (2) developing efficient and reproducible workflows for analyzing animal movement data and linking it ancillary data such as remote sensing imagery; (3) deploying workflows on UCSB’s high performance computing cluster; (4) synthesizing, visualizing, and communicating results. Additional responsibilities may include conducting statistical analyses and contributing to the drafting of academic publications and presentations.

The successful candidate will have strong quantitative skills, an ability to work and problem solve independently, a creative and solutions-oriented mindset, a strong track record of collaboration, and the ability to effectively communicate scientific results.

The University is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community through research, teaching, and service as appropriate to the position.

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, economics, environmental science and management, data science, statistics, or a related field at the time of application.

A Master’s degree in computer science, ecology, environmental science, data science, or a related field at the time of appointment.

OR

Required at time of start for Assistant Specialist:

At least 3 years of professional experience providing analytical research support to projects related to ecology, environmental science, data science, or a related field.

Required at time of start for Associate Specialist:

At least 5 years of professional experience providing analytical research support to projects related to ecology, environmental science, data science, or a related field.

-Excellent quantitative skills including experience collecting, managing, processing, and analyzing large datasets including spatial data;
-Experience managing and and processing biodiversity data;
-Proficiency with coding languages such as R and/or Python and experience working with GitHub;
-Ability to synthesize and communicate scientific methods and results to a variety of partners and stakeholders;
-Excellent creative problem solving and troubleshooting skills;
-Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
-Ability to take initiative, self manage, and work independently as well as collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team;
-Exceptional attention to detail and strong organizational and time management skills

• 3-5 required (contact information only)

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status. For the University of California’s Affirmative Action Policy please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4010393/PPSM-20. For the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination.

As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs, as may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.