CALL FOR APPLICATIONS
Services needed: Geospatial analytical work & scientific writing
Closing Date for Submission: May 28, 2017
Responses must be submitted to: wgould@fs.fed.us
We are looking to contract the services of various professional individuals with expertise in geospatial data management and tool development, scientific analyses and writing, and understanding of the agricultural and forest systems of Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands for work associated with the USDA Caribbean Climate Hub.
Candidates should have a Master’s Degree or PhD in environmental sciences, biology, ecology, geography, or related fields. Services are needed for 6 to 24 month projects beginning summer/fall 2017. Work will be based at Geographic Information Systems Laboratory at the USDA Forest Service International Institute of Tropical Forestry in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico.
Requested services include integrating spatial and other information in the development of publications, tools, datasets, and products for disseminating spatial information on climate, land cover, natural resources, crops, agricultural services, agricultural incentive programs, biodiversity, and conservation initiatives that are part of the Caribbean Climate Hub.
The contractor is expected to work on one of the projects prioritized by the Climate Hub and under the direction of Climate Hub staff. Projects available include:
• Project #1: Research on USDA response to reducing the risks of drought and storms and increasing sustainability in agriculture in the US Caribbean.
• Project #2: Technical assistance establishing geospatial tools for the Forest Health Monitoring of the State and Private Forestry Program at the USFS International Institute of Tropical Forestry.
• Project #3: Scientific writing for the Puerto Rico Breeding Bird Atlas.
• Project #4: Geospatial analyses and literature review and scientific description of state and transition models for Puerto Rico’s vegetation cover as related to soil survey information.
• Project #5: Researching existing technology transfer tools such as phone apps for use in tropical agriculture, identifying best tools and ways adapting for use in the U.S. Caribbean.
Interested individuals should send a two-page letter explaining their interest in one or more of the projects, experience, and availability to Dr. William Gould (wgould@fs.fed.us) by May 28, 2017.
Request for Services
BACKGROUND INFORMATION – USDA Caribbean Climate Hub
The USDA Caribbean Climate Hub located in Río Piedras, and is one of ten regional hubs nationwide that work with USDA agencies to deliver science-based knowledge and practical information to farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners that will help them to adapt to climate change and weather variability. The Hubs coordinate with local and regional partners in federal and state agencies, universities, NGO’s, and the public. The Caribbean Hub provides information and technical support for land managers to respond to drought, heat stress, floods, pests, fire and changes in growing season; regional assessments and forecasts for hazard and adaptation planning; and outreach and education for land managers on ways to mitigate risks and thrive despite change. For more information or inquiries please contact Dr. William Gould, Director of the USDA Caribbean Climate Hub, at wgould@fs.fed.us or by phone at 787-764-7790.
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