The Lead River Scientist will develop and lead a diverse portfolio of applied freshwater science initiatives in California. They will have primary responsibility for developing the scientific framework needed to inform and advance innovative strategies to improve water management for freshwater biodiversity, including the assessment of water needs for instream flows and wetlands. They will be the lead expert on the ecological implications of water management in California, developing and applying scientific tools and methods to provide a robust scientific foundation to support conservation and restoration strategies for freshwater ecosystems. The Lead River Scientist will lead multi-stakeholder groups to develop modeling tools and analyses to support statewide flow predictions and implementation of ecological flow criteria. They will provide science leadership on multidisciplinary teams of ecologists, conservation practitioners, policy experts and others working to advance place-based and policy-based conservation initiatives, considering the complex nature of California’s water infrastructure, legal system, water use, freshwater diversity, and socio-political context.

The Lead River Scientist will serve in a leadership capacity to shape science-based water management strategies to better meet the water needs of native species and habitats across California. They will provide scientific expertise, including expertise in freshwater ecology and physical processes of rivers, to Conservancy teams and partners; develop innovative scientific methods, analyses, tools, and frameworks to address river function and freshwater biodiversity; foster strategic partnerships with public agencies, private organizations, and the academic community; and communicate issues and best practices to stakeholders and other key audiences. They will undertake research, planning, and stakeholder facilitation with the intent of maximizing conservation and restoration outcomes They will help shape the Conservancy’s policy engagements on freshwater issues and bring key agency and academic relationships to bear to advance local, regional, and statewide conservation efforts. You would be part of a team of scientists with dedicated efforts to impact conservation throughout the world!

• Master’s Degree in freshwater ecology, fisheries, hydrology, or related field and 6-10 years related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience directing a major river conservation program of strategic importance and leading multi-disciplinary teams to deliver outcomes.
• Record of peer reviewed publications in scientific journals.
• Experience fundraising and/or writing grants and research proposals.
• Experience with building relationships across public, private, and NGO sectors.