The Research Coordinator serves as the lead scientist at the Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve (Reserve), leading and developing a research program that advances knowledge and understanding of freshwater systems, including the St. Louis River Estuary and coastal Lake Superior. Research focus areas range across applied and foundational topics, which may include estuarine water quality dynamics, the emergence of harmful algal blooms, wetland and restoration sciences, impacts of and response to invasive species, and emerging climate stressors and response. The coordinator engages in collaborative coastal science nationally with partners in the National Estuarine Research Reserve system.

The Research Coordinator collaborates with a wide range of partners, including Tribal Nations and local communities, to advance shared research priorities. They coordinate with the Reserve’s stewardship, monitoring, training and education programs to develop programming, identify emerging issues, and disseminate results. They may instruct in an undergraduate environmental science major on a bi-annual basis depending on funding and partnerships. They supervise and mentor research staff, fellows and interns and develop and manage funding applications to advance research of interest.

Based on the St. Louis River Estuary in Superior, WI, the Lake Superior Reserve is one of 30 reserves in the National Estuarine Research Reserve System. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides federal leadership and guidance to the Reserve system. The Reserve is a part of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension (Extension) and is supported through a network of innovative regional partnerships. The position is a part of the Division of Extension Natural Resources Institute. The primary accountability relationship for the research coordinator is the Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve director.

The Reserve is in Superior, Wisconsin, an area with ample outdoor recreation opportunities, cultural and civic events, and innovative university and public-school options. The successful candidate will be part of a supportive and collaborative team that includes eleven full-time staff and several interns, graduate and undergraduate researchers and fellows annually.

Based at the headwaters of the Great Lakes, the Reserve provides an established waterfront analytical laboratory, well equipped on-site vessels and work vehicle, and the 16,697-acre living laboratory within Reserve boundaries.