POSITION DESCRIPTION
Position Title
Postdoctoral Freshwater Ecologist
Reports To
Group Manager – Freshwater Ecology
Function
Science
Location
Hamilton
Hours of Work
37.5 hours per week
Role Status
Fixed Term (2 years)
Date Prepared
May 2014
Purpose of Position
The purpose of this position is to undertake research that will contribute to NIWA’s existing research programme
“Ensuring Ecosystem Health” and support NIWA’s Statement of Corporate Intent aims of “increasing economic growth
through the sustainable management and use of aquatic resources” and “enhancing the stewardship of NZ’s
freshwater and marine ecosystems and biodiversity”.
This position will also increase capacity of NIWA’s Hamilton-based Freshwater Ecology group in the area of stream
invertebrate ecology and river restoration, supporting business development in the areas of urban stream restoration
and restoration of streams in agricultural landscapes.
Scope
The general scope of the Post Doctoral position is to determine methods to boost stream biota recovery in riparian
restoration projects in production and urban environments.
This will be achieved by carrying out a combination of the following research strands:
(i) Re-analysis of key invertebrate species and assemblage impact and recovery patterns using existing longterm
datasets on pastoral stream restoration (Whatawhata, 19 y) and Coromandel forest logged/replanted sites
catchments (up to 20 y), as models of invertebrate response to riparian vegetation development post
disturbance, with additional sampling as required to define trajectory plateaus;
(ii) Determining dispersal abilities of different taxa (flighted and non-flighted) and barriers to their dispersal and
determining cumulative effects of multiple small-scale riparian restoration projects in a catchment by analysing
and adding to existing long-term biomonitoring network data (that we hold) in collaboration with University of
Waikato genetic studies (Dr Ian Hogg’s lab);
(iii) Collaboration with Auckland Council to determine the invertebrate response to the restoration of Oakley
Creek; and undertaking;
(iv) A pilot project to reintroduce target macroinvertebrates to a restored stream that has significant connectivityto-colonist source issues.
Expected outputs would be at least 2 papers in international peer reviewed journals by June 2016.
There would also be an expectation that this position will involve contribution to other research and commercial
projects.
Direct & Indirect Reports
None
Key Relationships
Internal
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External
Principal Scientists (Freshwater Ecology)
Programme Leaders
Regional Manager, Hamilton Region
Chief Scientist – Marine Biodiversity & Biosecurity
Chief Scientist – Freshwater
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Regional Councils
University of Waikato staff
Budget Accountability & Authorities
This position has the following budget accountability: NIL
This position has the following delegated authorities: NIL
Key Performance Indicators
Critical Activities
Research
 Undertake original research in the area of freshwater stream invertebrates and
restoration.
 Communicate research by authoring or co-authoring publicaitons that contribute
to new scientific knowledge
Production, Products,
Services
 Prepare research and client reports and material for presentations within
specialist area
Management / Leadership /
Planning
 Plan, schedule and participate in detailed phases of work for projects and
programmes
Core Indicators
 Perform all tasks as directed within allocated timeframe, to specified standard,
within budget
 Complete administrative tasks as directed in an accurate and timely manner
 Comply with safe working practices in accordance with NIWA's Health and Safety
Procedures
 Act within delegated authority level
 Observe and comply with NIWA's policies, procedures and internal management
systems
 Contribute to effective communication and provide constructive feedback
 Support and contribute to NIWA's positive overall organisational culture
 Be a source of specialist advice and maintain an in-depth knowledge of
approaches, products, services, market conditions and opportunities
Person Specification
Qualifications
PhD in Freshwater Ecology, specialising in Stream Invertebrates and/or Stream Restoration.
Experience
Experience in carrying out independent research.
Competencies
Technical skills and knowledge
 Proficient in data interpretation and analysis
 A demonstrated ability to produce scientific outputs of high quality, including reports to clients
and presentations.
 Able to analyse information to identify cause and effect and trends over time to help solve
problems and make decisions.
Problem-Solving
Able to think critically and analyse data/situations. Positive approach to solving problems onthe-job. "Can do" attitude. Perseveres to find a workable solution despite difficulties.
Keeping informed
Maintains awareness of external events with implications for their work. Ensures up-to-date
knowledge and skills in their professional area (e.g. membership of professional bodies,
conference attendance, technical reading, training and development activities).
Communication skills
Writes and speaks clearly and concisely. Able to convey their ideas and seek relevant
information from others effectively.
Planning and Organising
Thinks ahead and plans work so requirements are met. Prioritises and manages time
effectively.
Well-organised and systematic approach.
Interpersonal Skills
Confident and relaxed, mixes easily with others in a range of situations. Comfortable initiating
contact for business purposes. Open and approachable, listens and questions effectively.
Interprets situations & adapts behaviour.
Results Orientation
Focused on achieving bottom line results. Puts in the time & effort, drives self & others to
achieve outcomes. Proactive in setting & pursuing challenging goals & targets.
Project Management
Plans projects thoroughly, ensures plans are carried out, manages people and resources
effectively to ensure project objectives are achieved.
Detail Orientation
Careful in recording and checking details. Maintains high standards of accuracy.
Initiative
Self-motivated, proactive, identifies opportunities, willing to take on extra responsibility. Able
to work with minimal supervision.
Keeping Informed
Maintains awareness of external events with implications for their work. Ensures up-to-date
knowledge and skills in their professional area (e.g. membership of professional bodies,
conference attendance, technical reading, training and development activities).
Teamwork
Relates well with colleagues. Willingly pitches in to provide back-up and support to other team
members where required. Puts own objectives and tasks aside if team requirements need to
take priority