Acadia Early-Career Gero Fellowship in Science Research

Through the continued generous support of Catherine and James Gero, the National Park Service, Schoodic Institute, and the National Park Foundation, we invite applications for a 10-month early-career Science Research Fellowship. The Science Research Fellow will join a cohort with Science Communication and Environmental Science Education fellows; each working independently on discipline-specific initiatives and collaboratively on interdisciplinary projects. 

The Science Research Fellow will engage in management-focused research across Acadia, such as monitoring seasonal bird populations, assessing biodiversity, working with resource managers, and engaging park visitors in science learning. Based on research priorities, the fellow will lead ongoing research related to bird populations and habitat conservation and restoration, including field data collection, data analysis, and synthesis. Work may take place in intertidal, forest, and wetland habitats in Acadia National Park and surrounding areas. The Research Fellow is expected to participate in science communication assignments by contributing to social media posts, creating content for the Schoodic Institute and National Park Service websites, and attending or presenting at Schoodic events such as lectures, symposia, and fundraisers. 

Fellowship Requirements: 

• Experience with the identification of eastern birds by sight and sound
• Experience with entering, organizing, analyzing (R), and interpreting data
• Willingness to periodically travel or camp to complete field assignments
• Comfortable working alone in the field with proper safety precautions
• Bachelor’s degree in an applicable field of science with a graduation date within the past 3 years
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong work ethic and ability to plan work schedule effectively
• Enthusiasm for learning, science, and conservation
• Ability to learn and follow protocols accurately
• Keen interest in pursuing a career in conservation
• Ability to embrace working outdoors in a variety of conditions (e.g., weather, terrain, diverse habitats)
• Must have permanent authorization for US employment
• Must have a valid driver’s license

The fellow’s primary work location is on the Schoodic Institute campus in Winter Harbor, Maine, on the Schoodic Peninsula. Field work will occur throughout Acadia National Park and surrounding locations within a 1-3 hour drive. At times, camping may be required to complete field work off of the Schoodic Peninsula.