OBJECTIVES:
The primary objective of this project is to learn from past management measures by evaluating the agreement between predictions and responses of marine stocks in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean. This will be achieved by: (1) compiling a database of applied stock assessment management measures, their expected outcomes, and the observed response of the stocks (establishment of the database is near completion; as new data become available through ongoing research, this information would be added to the database), and (2) analyzing the expected and observed outcomes of various management measures and advice. The focus of the database and analysis will be on fin-fish and crustacean stocks assessed in the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

DUTIES (Methods):
This project collects information from the Canadian Science Advisory Secretariat (CSAS) Gulf Region stock assessments. We will develop a set of questions to be applied to each stock assessment.
The database compiles data on:
Stock assessment science advice (e.g., status of stock),
Environmental variables and ecosystem considerations included in the science advice,
Management measures taken (e.g., closures, TAC, short or long-term decision-making),
Predicted response of stock to management measures (e.g., reduce catch = increase in stock abundance),
Responses of the stocks.
A meta-analysis will be applied to the database to quantifying outcomes of different management measures.

DELIVERABLES (Anticipated):
Database of stock assessment and effectiveness of management measures and outcomes in the Atlantic (this deliverable is near completion).
Desktop audit of stock assessments and whether ecosystem-informed advice has been integrated into fisheries management decision-making in the Gulf Region. This will build on an existing review by the Aquatic Climate Change Adaptation Services Program.
Peer-reviewed primary publication(s) and/or report(s), including a manuscript on the expected response of marine fish stocks to fisheries management measures in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and how ecosystem information has been integrated into Fisheries Management decision-making in the Gulf Region.

EDUCATION:
Graduation with graduate degree from a recognized post-secondary institution with specialization in a field relevant to the duties of the position and an interest in evidence-based decision making in fisheries management. PhD (postdoctoral) preferred.

EXPERIENCE and ABILITIES:
Experience in authoring or co-authoring scientific papers and reports.
Experience conducting scientific work or policy/program work with respect to fisheries science, ecosystem approaches for fisheries management, an/or conservation measures.
Experience organizing and conducting research as a project lead.
Knowledge of how the status of aquatic species, habitat, or ecosystems are assessed to generate science advice.
Knowledge of DFO’s Canadian Science Advisory processes, policies, and publications.
Ability to communicate effectively in writing

TO APPLY:
Please e-mail 1) your curriculum vitae (CV); and 2) a covering letter supporting the CV and outlining how you meet the requirements under Education, Experience and Abilities, by April 30, 2022, to, Jolene Sutton, Jolene.Sutton@dfo-mpo.gc.ca. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to participate in a telephone or online interview.