Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment

ATREE invites applications from interested candidates to work in its Ecoinformatics Lab on developing the Karnataka State Biodiversity Atlas. The project aims at developing a comprehensive web-enabled compilation of maps and spatial databases on biodiversity information in the state of Karnataka from secondary sources. The project is funded by Karnataka Biodiversity Board. For this initiative, we are looking for a full-time Senior Research Associate (SRA) for a period of 17 months from January 2012.

Persons interested in either position may send your resumes to kiran@atree.org

The biodiversity atlas will represent the state’s biodiversity and associated information through a spatial interface. The SRA will be responsible for the development of spatial data sets for the proposed atlas from secondary information. The position requires strong software skills and willingness to undertake intensive GIS tasks.

The responsibilities will include but will not be restricted to

• creation of geo-spatial data sets from multi-format secondary information such as non-spatial environmental data bases, published maps, RS imagery, etc.
• quality assessment and refinements of GIS data sets and preparation of associated metadata
• implement various spatial data analytical procedures required for the project such as species distribution mapping, land cover change analysis, etc.
• archival and management of the spatial database

Educational qualifications

• Masters degree with specialization in GIS and Remote Sensing with background in Botany/Zoology/Life Sciences/Environment or related fields
  OR
  Masters degree in Life Sciences/Botany/Zoology/Environmental Science or related fields with sound training in GIS and RS

Experience and Skills

• Minimum 2-3 years of experience in a position with primary responsibilities in RS/GIS related tasks
• Strong software skills in ArcGIS and ERDAS Imagine.
• Familiarity with multi-format GIS and RS data sets.
• Proficiency in the English language.
• Ability to work in a team with possible time deadlines
• Willingness to travel, if required

Desirable qualifications

• Familiarity with spatial modeling of species distributions or environmental properties are highly desirable.
• Familiarity with Idrisi, QGIS, and other open source GIS software will be helpful
• Knowledge in webGIS or DBMS
• Knowledge in web technologies or website content management

The position is based in Bangalore, but may require occassional travel to various locations. The appointment is for 17 months starting January 2012. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience and will be similar to DST Fellowships for SRF / RA. The selected candidates should be willing to join immediately.