Assistant Research Scientist, Population Trends in Coral Reef Fishes

Michael Mehta Webster (Professor of Practice, Environmental Studies) is seeking an Assistant Research Scientist to help analyze data on the global status of coral reef fishes. This work is part of a larger project, in partnership with researchers at the University of Washington (UW), to examine global trends in marine vertebrates and identify strategies to promote the recovery of populations and species in decline.

Responsibilities

• Using an existing database, run specific analyses in R on trends in coral reef fishes to report patterns in trends (e.g., regional differences, taxonomic) and explore why some populations are increasing or stable, while others are in decline. Possible explanatory factors include geographic location, harvest history, management practices, and biology (e.g., fecundity, geographic range, diet).
• Develop figures to display results.

Minimum Qualifications/Skills

· Strong computational skills to conduct analyses of status and trends for marine species, as well as potential causes for different outcomes (e.g., why some species are declining and others are not) using Excel and R

· Excellent organization skills to systematically analyze a large database and communicate findings

· Ability to work independently, with occasional direction from supervisor and partners at UW.

Preferred Qualifications/Skills

· Interest in the conservation and management of marine species

Start Date and Schedule

• Starting approximately March 18, 2026
• Up to 10 hours per week
• This position is based in New York and the selected candidate will be expected to work onsite as of their effective start date.

In compliance with NYC?s Pay Transparency Act, the hourly rate for this position is $18. New York University considers factors such as (but not limited to) the specific grant funding and the terms of the research grant when extending an offer.

To express interest, please submit the following:

• Your resume
• A short statement about your interest in the topic and your experience with research, databases, and computation

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