Job Tag: Conservation

Tracy Aviary’s Conservation Science Program helps conserve birds and their habitats through community science. Focusing on key local habitats and pressing regional conservation issues, our goals are to gather novel information about local avian ecology, inform habitat restoration and stewardship, and engage a diverse community in scientific data collection. Tracy Aviary’s Conservation Science Program is seeking a Conservation Outreach Ecologist I who will support our ongoing programs and help grow and diversify our citizen science program.

Tracy Aviary (www.tracyaviary.org) is an AZA-accredited institution located on eight acres in the heart of Salt Lake City, UT. In early 2020, we opened Tracy Aviary’s second campus, Tracy Aviary’s Nature Center at Pia Okwai (https://tracyaviary.org/jordan-river/) which furthers our mission to inspire curiosity and caring for birds and nature through education and conservation. The Conservation Outreach Ecologist will split his/her/their office time between workstations at Tracy Aviary in Liberty Park and the Nature Center at Pia Okwai, and will conduct fieldwork at local study sites.

Primary Duties:

Broaden and diversify the audiences reached through Tracy Aviary’s community science and outreach activities
Coordinate and/or lead regular birding and field conservation trips and tours that connect people with birds and nature, and educate participants about Tracy Aviary’s conservation work
Engage community members, youths to adults, in community science and other investigations at the Nature Center at Pia Okwai
Conduct outreach and education for the Conservation Science Program by attending tabling and partner events
Conduct volunteer recruitment, scheduling, and coordination for community science trainings and surveys
Help facilitate an expansion of Tracy Aviary’s research, monitoring, and outreach efforts along the Jordan River and other riparian areas in Salt Lake County
Assist with partner coordination, permitting, and scheduling for research and monitoring projects as needed
Assist with data entry, management, analysis, reporting, and presentations as needed
Assist Conservation Ecologists with projects as needed

Minimum Qualifications:

An associate’s degree or higher with a coursework in conservation science, wildlife biology, ecology, environmental education, or related field
Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to engage with diverse audiences
Ability to identify birds of the region by sight and sound, and experience conducting field research
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, and experience with data entry and analysis
Willingness to work irregular hours, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends
Strong work ethic and ability to accomplish tasks independently
Bilingual, English/Spanish

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience promoting diversity and inclusion in conservation activities
Experience implementing citizen science projects
Grant-writing experience
Background in science communication and outreach

Salary: $15-17/hr

Job Status: Hourly, Part-Time

Start Date: December 2024 – January 2025

Reporting Relationship: Supervised and managed by the Director of Conservation

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a nonprofit international conservation leader, committed to inspiring a passion for nature and creating a world where all life thrives. Empowering people from around the globe to support our mission to conserve wildlife through innovation and partnerships, we support cutting-edge conservation, and bring the stories of our work back to our two world-famous front doors — the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park — giving millions of guests, in person and virtually, the opportunity to experience conservation in action. The deep and extensive knowledge gained from more than a century of experience in wildlife care, health, veterinary services, nutrition and conservation makes us invaluable in the global effort to save species. Our team members play a crucial role in driving our conservation efforts forward and bringing us closer to a world where all life thrives.

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION

The Researcher II develops programs for scientific research; conducts independent and collaborative research in a specialized area of biological science; and supervises assigned research/laboratory operations. This position reports to Scientist level or higher in the Conservation Science & Wildlife Health department.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Develop scientific research programs in a specialized field of study.
Plan, design, organize, supervise, and conduct independent and collaborative projects.
Determine study subjects, research parameters and methodology, and cost requirements.
Evaluate funding sources and obtains necessary funding.
Oversee and conduct data collection, analysis, and interpretation of results applied to conservation programs.
Coordinate with animal care and veterinary staff regarding sample collection, disease trends, and reproductive status; provides samples to collaborative researchers.
Establish research partnerships.
Oversee assigned area(s) and supervises assigned staff.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

The ideal candidate is a Ph.D. level researcher in plant cryobiology with experience developing cryopreservation and micropropagation protocols for conservation genebanking of wild rare plants. The Researcher II will continue research on rare California oaks and expand the plant cryopreservation program to other rare plant taxa, especially orchids, cycad and palms, and train SDZWA staff and partner gardens through workshops in collaboration with other cryobiologists. The successful candidate will coordinate with field and horticulture staff within SDZWA and at collaborating gardens to collect samples for research or accessioning into our cryorepository for long-term conservation. Micropropagation experience with difficult taxa, especially oaks (Quercus), and developing somatic embryos highly desired. We are seeking a researcher with experience in grant reporting, authoring peer-reviewed publications, leading complex multi-year projects with collaborators, and dedicated to the challenge of conserving rare plants through biobanking.

JOB EXPERIENCE

Three years of laboratory, diagnostic, wildlife care or field expertise in a specialized field of research required.
Three years of experience with science communication or interpretation of scientific concepts required.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

Master’s Degree in biological science or a related field or equivalent specialized training required.
Current valid California Driver’s License in good standing

The Community Forestry & Conservation department seeks one of two Consulting Foresters to join our team at Holden Forests & Gardens (HF&G). The Consulting Foresters are primarily responsible in assisting in the formation and execution of consulting forestry services. The Consulting Foresters will play a pivotal role in advising landowners in northeast Ohio on managing, conserving, and enhancing their forests. This role involves landowner site visits, writing forest management plans, conducting ecological assessments and surveys, advising on forest health & conservation strategies and enrollment in carbon markets, as well as potentially other services such as timber harvest administration as opportunity aligns with program mission. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of and experience in forestry, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to environmental stewardship.

The foresters will also assist in advancing conservation objectives internally at the Working Woods demonstration forest to model appropriate conservation actions and non-timber forest product development to external audiences including landowners, professionals, policy makers, and the public. They will assist with field days, tabling, and other outreach events advocating for the many values of trees and forests and participate in partnerships among public and private interests that protect, conserve, and nurture forests. These roles will support the work to elevate Holden Forests & Gardens’ forestry outreach initiatives.

Holden Forests & Gardens connects people with the wonder, beauty and value of trees and plants, to inspire action for healthy communities. HF&G strives for a welcoming workplace where everyone feels that they belong. This role is based at the Holden Arboretum in Kirtland, OH with occasional travel to the Cleveland Botanical Garden, throughout the state of Ohio, and occasionally beyond.

Position Details:

Reports to the Working Woods Hub Manager
Exempt Position
Full-Time
Evening and weekend work as needed
Medical, Dental, Vision Benefits
This position is grant-funded for 3 years.
While a model of Consulting Forestry is formed, with the goal of the position being self-sustaining afterwards through income generated through forestry services.

Key Responsibilities:
Key responsibilities of the Consulting Forester, include, but are not limited to:

Advocates for landowner awareness of the value of forests and trees to restore the aesthetic, environmental, and economic values of trees and forests in northeast Ohio
Conducts site visits and writes forest management plans for landowners, connecting them with needed resources to implement management and achieve their goals i.e. cost-share funding programs such as EQIP, forest carbon markets, tax credit programs, and other resources
Manages forestry projects on private lands including prescribed management, non-timber forest product development, tree plantings, timber stand improvement, and other activities
Serves as a technical service provider on private lands when appropriate
Work alongside other Consulting Forester to effectively divide work and strategize approaches for forestry services
Supports the work of NTFP demonstrations and outreach at the Working Woods Learning Forest
Assists with field tours, workshops, seminars, and tabling events
Presents to public and professional audiences at conferences, symposia, and workshops as needed
Supports the work of interns, Fellows and NOWCorps members and helps with training and mentorship
Participates in organizational planning and special event committees as appropriate
Works independently on diverse tasks and meets deadlines
Communicates clearly and concisely to the general public
Represents HF&G to its supporters and constituents credibly and professionally
Appreciation for the importance of the work of arboreta, public gardens, and museums

Qualifications and Skills:

Demonstrate a passion for people, forest conservation, forestry, and climate change action with a clear understanding of those issues and their relationships to forests, forestry, and natural resource management
Associate or bachelor’s degree in forestry, forest science, natural resource management, or related field
2 years’ experience with forestry or a related field, required
Certified Forester credential (SAF or ACF) or ability to obtain certification within 2 years of hire, highly desired
Experience working as or alongside a consulting forester, preferred
Experience working with landowners, preferred
Knowledge of, and experience with, biological principles and ecosystem dynamics as applied in a planning and implementation context
Highly organized and able to coordinate multiple ongoing projects simultaneously
Experience and comfort with communicating with regulatory agencies with jurisdiction over natural resources such as in forests, water, or wildlife in Ohio
A good communicator who enjoys engaging with people
Knowledge of ArcGIS (Pro), GPS data loggers
Proficient use of Microsoft 365 products, specifically Teams, Outlook (email and calendar), Word, Excel, SharePoint, and OneDrive
Experience and willingness to work collaboratively as a part of a team as well as independently

Physical Requirements:
Must be able to perform with or without reasonable accommodation:

Communicate over the telephone, in person, and electronically
Reliable transportation and ability to attend meetings and events within the state of Ohio and occasionally beyond
Able to drive long hour(s) and distances to conduct site visits
Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions
Capable of walking long distances and navigating rough terrain and hills
Ability to lift and carry equipment and supplies as needed up to 30 lbs
Travel by foot on unpaved or uneven terrain to transport oneself to various locations on arboretum property
Ability to reach, kneel, bend and twist at waist, bend at knees, crouch, see, touch, grasp objects, push, and pull

Riverkeeper is New York’s premier water quality advocate. Our mission is to protect and restore the Hudson River from source to sea and safeguards drinking water supplies, through advocacy rooted in community partnerships, science and law. With an annual operating budget of $5 million, Riverkeeper is a mid-sized not-for-profit operating in the Hudson Valley.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director of Habitat Restoration will lead the Habitat Restoration team to plan and implement habitat restoration activities in the Hudson River watershed including dam removal and stream restoration. They will provide expertise on issues relating to habitat quality, restoration, conservation and adaptation in support of Riverkeeper priorities including improved state and federal policy, better fisheries management and mitigating impacts to development in the watershed. Reporting to the Director of Science, this role will utilize the best available science to guide habitat restoration activities and provide expert guidance on all of Riverkeeper’s positions and priorities related to habitat and fisheries.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

(This is not an exhaustive list of all job duties, responsibilities, and requirements.)

Manage and develop the Habitat Restoration team
Work with Riverkeeper leadership to align the work of the habitat restoration team with Riverkeeper’s mission, vision and strategic plan
Identify opportunities for habitat restoration within the Riverkeeper mission area and proactively engage stakeholders in order to develop and execute projects
Provide ecological expertise to Riverkeeper’s advocacy and legal teams during public comment periods for a variety of policy initiatives to advance Riverkeeper’s mission
Identify primary barriers on Hudson River tributaries with maximum benefits to aquatic species and human communities
Manage dam removal, culvert alignment and habitat restoration projects including developing project timelines, scope of work, and budgets
Review engineering proposals and river restoration design plans
Form and maintain working relationships with elected officials and local decision makers in government, business, and non-profit sectors
Research and write advocacy and educational material in coordination with the Communications team (blogs, articles and other media)
Communicate with press and news outlets and speak at public events
Routinely collaborate with the Development team to identify and pursue potential funding sources, including writing grant proposals for high priority projects and developing relationships with funders

EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

Research shows that women and people from under-represented groups often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. Please know that no one ever meets 100% of the qualifications. If much of this describes you, we encourage you to apply.

This might be the right next role for you if you have at least ten (10) years of relevant experience, and would likely be described as someone who can deliver on complex habitat restoration projects with multiple stakeholders. Desired qualifications:

Doctorate or Master’s degree in Civil/Environmental engineering, or Doctorate in ecology, fisheries, environmental management, river restoration
Able to establish, manage and drive multiple projects to completion on time and on budget
Strong people skills, including the ability to work with diverse communities, the ability to effectively build strong relationships both internally and externally, and proven track record leading coalitions/teams
Strong organizational skills and demonstrated experience meeting project deadlines
Ecological expertise in the management of local and regional fisheries
Expert knowledge of Northeast ecosystems, river ecology, Hudson River tributaries and fisheries (including lower Hudson and NY/NJ harbor), fluvial geomorphology, and river restoration
Expert knowledge of native Hudson River fish species (i.e. life-history, biology and ecology of species and their interactions within the river, estuary and open ocean) strongly preferred
Demonstrated experience developing and/or managing river restoration projects
Watershed assessment and project prioritization experience, including sociological, economic, and ecological considerations
Experience in culvert alignment projects (NACC certification preferred)
Experience designing and implementing green infrastructure and urban planning projects
Complex problem-solving and adaptability skills
Advanced field, laboratory, and analytical skills
Expert knowledge in collecting and analyzing biological data
Experience with fundraising, including strong writing skills and attention to detail
Demonstrated partnership building experience across federal, state, and local government entities as well as a proven aptitude for building relationships with NGOs, environmental agencies, and community groups
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and the ability to effectively communicate with partners and agency representatives
Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice
Enthusiasm for Riverkeeper’s mission and being a part of a team of passionate advocates

HOURS/SHIFTS

This exempt position is full time (40 hours/week), Monday – Friday. It requires flexibility to work some evenings and weekends.

SALARY

Full-time salary range: $100,000 – $120,000 annually, commensurate with experience.

BENEFITS

Riverkeeper offers healthcare, dental and vision, life and disability coverage, retirement savings plan with employer match, annual professional development stipend, Paid Time Off (vacation, sick, personal days, floating holidays, most federal holidays, summer Fridays), and other benefits; office is closed between Christmas and New Year’s Day holidays.

The Marine Biology & Ecology Department at the Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and Earth Science and the University of Miami has an exciting full time opportunity for a Sr. Research Associate 1 who will provide scientific support for the reef restoration projects conducted at the Lirman Lab. The position consists of both field and lab activities, data collection, data analyses, report preparation and submission, student supervision, and participation in Rescue a Reef’s citizen science and education programs.

The candidate’s duties will include, but are not limited to the following:

Help design an execute lab and field coral restoration activities

Contribute to field coral nursery and outplanting activities

Conduct lab coral fragmentation and tank maintenance

Analyze data

Drive UM boats

Support Rescue a Reef Public Expeditions

Prepare and present data reports

Train and supervise interns and volunteers

Conduct physically demanding field work (lift ~50 lbs, good swimming skills)

Work in cold/hot climate marine environments

Required education and skills:

Masters degree in relevant field

Current AAUS Dive certification

Experience handling boats (19-27 ft) (MOCC certification or similar required

Coral and Fish identification kills

Coral Husbandry

This is a full-time position with the American Bird Conservancy (ABC). The Western Regional Director is responsible for leading, coordinating, and promoting ABC conservation programs and projects across the Western United States, which includes the Pacific Northwest, the Southwest, and adjacent areas in Northern Mexico. This role involves building and maintaining high-level relationships with public and private partners, conservation stakeholders, and funders. The Western Regional Director will also engage in national and international initiatives, such as liaising with the Central Grasslands Roadmap and the JV8 Central Grasslands initiative, and participating in cross-border efforts with Mexico (and occasionally Canada).

This position requires initiative, excellent supervisory and communication skills, experience in fundraising and achieving on-the-ground conservation results, and the ability to manage multiple projects and responsibilities. The Director must work independently, be part of a team, and represent ABC effectively within the conservation community.

Primary Duties:

Lead efforts to develop and implement priority bird conservation programs and projects in the Western U.S., focusing on measurable outcomes that address significant conservation challenges, such as the 3 Billion Birds initiative.
Oversee ABC staff and contractors across the Western Region, including the Pacific Northwest and Southwest, ensuring effective team management, mentorship, and development.
Identify and secure funding from regional, national, and international sources in coordination with ABC’s Development Division.
Elevate and promote ABC and Joint Venture program work to funders and high-level decision makers to ensure sustained visibility and recognition for these programs among key supporters.
Foster and maintain excellent working relationships with key conservation stakeholders and funders, including federal and state agencies, corporations, and non-governmental organizations across the Western Region.
Develop and implement ABC’s BirdScapes conservation initiatives and other strategic conservation plans, including annual plans and budgets for the region.
Provide regular content on Western bird conservation for ABC’s Communication team, contributing to web, social media, publications, and press releases.
Collaborate with ABC’s Advocacy team to monitor and address policy issues and threats in the region, supporting ABC’s broader initiatives.
Work with ABC’s Together for Birds Vice President and others to advance justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) within the Western Region and in collaboration with other ABC regions.

At American Bird Conservancy, we believe that a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills makes us more effective. We are committed to creating a respectful and inclusive work environment for all of our employees.

As an equal opportunity employer, ABC is committed to ensuring that employees and applicants for employment have equal opportunities regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, age, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other factor unrelated to the requirements of the position.
Requirements

Master’s degree in wildlife conservation, habitat management, or a related field is preferred; or, bachelor’s degree with at least seven years of relevant work experience.
Background screening required
Authorized to work in the U.S.; Citizen or Permanent Resident

Required Experience:

Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills; ability to work independently and meet deadlines; experience with strategic planning and budget development; ability to interact and engage with a diversity of constituents.
Knowledge of birds and habitats in the Western U.S. is preferred. Familiarity with on-the-ground conservation delivery action, avian and vegetation monitoring techniques, and metrics tracking and reporting is a plus.
Willingness to travel frequently.

Preferred Experience:

Proficiency in Spanish, both written and spoken

Salary Description
Estimated a $120,000 annually; Based on experience

The Department of Biology at Texas State University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position specializing in quantitative ecology of terrestrial vertebrates. Faculty in our undergraduate and graduate (master’s and Ph.D.) wildlife programs engage in hands-on, field-oriented projects ranging from local to global scales. The successful candidate will be expected to develop an externally funded research program that involves the mentoring of graduate students and complements the strengths of our 50+ member faculty and to teach graduate and undergraduate courses in support of the wildlife program.

This position is subject to the availability of funds.

Required Qualifications:
1.Earned Ph.D. in the biological sciences or related field
2. Postdoctoral experience or equivalent
3. Research emphasis and a record of peer-reviewed publications focused on the ecology of terrestrial vertebrates.
4. Ability to teach field-based courses in support of the wildlife program
5. Evidence that research integrates quantitative methods with field-based research

Preferred Qualifications:
1. Record of grant funding to support research
2. Ability to teach experimental design and/or quantitative methods course(s) in support of our graduate programs
3. Experience needed to acquire federal, state, and university-level vertebrate collection/handling permits
4. Research focused on one or more of the following subject areas: spatial ecology, movement ecology, population ecology, or community ecology.

The Mifflin County Conservation District is seeking qualified candidates for a full time Agriculture Resource Conservationist position! Position responsibilities include the planning and implementation of best management practices for nutrient and sediment control, technical assistance related to agriculture and natural resource protection, and the review/development of Nutrient Management plans, Manure Management plans, and Ag. E&S plans. This position requires both office and field work.

Duties:

Develop and/or review Manure Management plans, Ag. Erosion & Sediment Control plans, and Nutrient Management plans.
Conduct/facilitate farm inspections to identify existing and potential nutrient and sediment pollution problems.
Work with agricultural producers and consultants to facilitate inventory & evaluations (I&Es), surveys, designs, and BMP implementation.
Provide oversight and advice on the installation, use, and maintenance of BMPs.
Assist in the conservation district’s educational activities related to the Agricultural Conservation Assistance Program, Chesapeake Bay Program, Nutrient Management Program, and any other relevant education and outreach activities.
Maintain daily records of time spent in all work activities with each respective program.
Maintain technical proficiency by attending appropriate program and natural resource related training.

Requirements:

Bachelor’s/Associates degree in environmental sciences, agriculture science/business, natural resource management, environmental/agricultural engineering, or related field.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs, Adobe Suite, and ArcGIS.
Must have ability to communicate effectively with people and write concise and meaningful correspondence and reports.
Must possess or be willing to develop a working knowledge of agricultural BMPs, the Nutrient Management Program (Act 38) and Manure Management Program (Chapter 91), Chapter 102 Erosion and Sediment Pollution Control, and the Clean Streams Law.
Must possess or be willing to obtain a Nutrient Management Certification.
Must be able to perform field inspections to verify that all components of associated plans are being implemented.
Must possess a valid PA driver’s license.
Must be able to perform physical labor and traverse various types of terrain.

If you are passionate about agriculture and natural resource conservation, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding opportunity. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to mi*****************@********cd.com.

Naples Botanical Garden is a 170-acre world-class paradise, featuring the flora and cultures of the tropics and sub-tropics including Brazil, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and Florida. The Garden’s mission is to connect people and plants through display, education, conservation, and applied science. The Garden has beautifully restored native habitats, cultivated gardens, walking trails, and public programming that offer education and enjoyment for people of all ages. Naples Botanical Garden is a 501(c)3 organization.

Position Summary: This position will be responsible for supporting efforts to safeguard and propagate rare and endangered plant species and will collaborate on all aspects of the Garden’s seed and plant conservation efforts. The successful candidate will assume a leadership role in the Conservation and Natural Resources Department to further the Garden’s mission to connect people and plants through efforts to conserve imperiled plant species and ecosystems. This position requires a broad interdisciplinary science background.

Requirements

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

Lead collaborative efforts across the Garden to develop, manage, and curate conservation plant collections as seeds and living plants
Perform gap analysis to guide organizational plant conservation targets and collections development
Organize required collections permitting and reporting in a timely manner
Coordinate conservation fieldwork to monitor and collect target plant species
Lead the development and publication of propagation and seed storage protocols
Maintain and curate the Naples Botanical Garden Seed Banks and living conservation collections
Manage a team of employees within the Conservation Horticulture department

Requirements/Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in plant sciences, Ecology, or Science related field.
Working knowledge of a variety of south Florida native plants and habitats
Ability to function effectively as a member of a team as well as work independently to see projects through to completion
Excellent organizational and record keeping skills
Possess great oral and written communication skills
Stand and work outdoors for long periods of time. Walk and inspect property in difficult terrain. Work in extreme temperatures. Lift and carry objects up to 50 pounds
Able to work indoors and outdoors
Pre-Employment background check required

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science unleashes the power of science to transform the way society understands and manages the environment. By conducting cutting-edge research into today’s most pressing environmental problems, we are developing new ideas to help guide our state, nation, and world toward a more environmentally sustainable future through five research centers—the Appalachian Laboratory in Frostburg, the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory in Solomons, the Horn Point Laboratory in Cambridge, the Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology in Baltimore, and the Maryland Sea Grant College in College Park.

Applications are invited for an Assistant Research Scientist (i.e., a postdoctoral scholar) now available in the Ecosystem Studies Group at the UMCES Chesapeake Biological Laboratory (CBL) in Solomons, Maryland (http://www.umces.edu/cbl). This position will focus on developing and implementing numerical models to support the understanding carbon cycling within coastal wasters and continental shelves, as well as the durability of proposed mCDR solutions. This work will be conducted as part of a large and exciting collaboration with researchers at Northeastern University, Princeton and GFDL, the University of Maine, Rutgers University, and the University of Connecticut, and will focus on modeling the impacts of kelp aquaculture on both water-column and benthic biogeochemical cycles, ecosystem effects, and potential mCDR. We seek highly motivated applicants with demonstrated problem-solving and quantitative skills.

The anticipated start date for this position is February 2025. The position is funded for a minimum of 2 years, and is located at the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory in Solomons, Maryland.

A Ph.D. is required in oceanography, biogeochemistry, computational earth system science, or a related field. Candidates with interest in or experience in ocean biogeochemical modeling, particularly model development, are especially encouraged to apply. Experience with FORTRAN, Matlab, python, and other programming languages is essential and strong writing and communication skills are recommended.