We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled postdoctoral researcher to join a project focused on developing mathematical models and control theory tools to support sustainable fisheries management. The project will optimize fishing practices to reduce ecological impacts, providing actionable insights to inform policy decisions that balance economic performance with environmental conservation.
Project overview
The primary objective is to develop realistic multi-species fish models that determine optimal fishing strategies, adhering to key sustainability rules. The models will be fitted with data on fish population dynamics, and bioeconomic recommendations will be developed. The project will aim to integrate these models with climate change and ecosystem-based management approaches to minimize the environmental and socio-economic impacts of fishing.
The outcomes of this project will include refined multi-species models for sustainable fisheries management and practical recommendations to inform adaptive policy frameworks.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will have the following qualifications:
- PhD in Mathematical Biology, Ecological Modeling, Economics, Fisheries Science, or a related field.
- Strong background in ecological and/or economic modeling, population dynamics, and quantitative analysis.
- Expertise in nonlinear multi-species models, bioeconomic models, or related quantitative methods for natural resource management.
- Proficiency in programming languages such as R, Python, or MATLAB for model development and data analysis.
- Knowledge of fisheries biology, management practices, and sustainable fishing strategies.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- A knowledge of optimization methods will be a plus.
Key responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and analyze multi-species models for optimal fisheries management.
- Integrate bioeconomic principles to optimize catch levels and profits while ensuring sustainability.
- Work with empirical data sets to calibrate and validate models.
- Contribute to the development of policy recommendations for sustainable fisheries management.
- Publish research in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals and present results at national and international conferences.
- Assist in writing grants and co-advise graduate students.
- There is no formal teaching load for this position.
Salary: 65,000-70,000 CAD per year including benefits for up to 2 years.
Travel/Research Allowance: $5,000 per year for up to 2 years.
Estimated start date: September 1, 2025.
How to apply
Interested candidates should submit the following documents:
- A cover letter outlining their qualifications and research interests.
- A CV, including a list of publications.
- A research statement
- Contact information for at least two references.
- Contact information, including your mailing address, email address, and phone number, as well as citizenship or permanent resident status.
Application should be directed to Dr. Cyrille Kenne (kenne@math.ubc.ca) and to Prof. Rashid Sumaila (r.sumaila@oceans.ubc.ca), along with the reference number PDFO-58576.
The final deadline for applications is May 30, 2025 or until the position is filled. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person.