Research position in American Samoa

The American Samoa Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) invites applications for the position of Research Scientist in its Pago Pago, American Samoa, office.


Primary duties of the position include implementation of Territorial monitoring programs, including tropical stream, beach, and near-coastal habitat monitoring. Research activities include, but are not necessarily limited to: development and validation of diagnostic methods to determine ecological effects of stressors at the population, community, ecosystem, and watershed scales; determination of effective indicators to detect significant change in ecological status related to stressors; evaluation of ecological indicators as tools to classify the ecological status of streams and near-coastal areas; and determination of the transport and fate of pathogenic microorganisms in the streams that discharge into recreational waters.


The Research Scientist will also participate in implementation of various agency plans and strategies, including the Coastal Nonpoint Source Monitoring Strategy. Additional duties include preparation of annual reports and periodic assessments and interaction with civic and traditional governing bodies for outreach purposes. The Research Scientist will also assist with the Water Quality Lab supervision.


Minimum qualifications: The ASEPA Research Scientist position requires a minimum of a doctoral (PhD) degree in the field of ecology, biology, or a closely related field. In addition to the education requirements, the Research Scientist must have at least two (2) years research experience with research activities in ecological monitoring. Applicants with a Master’s (MS) degree in ecology, biology, or a closely related field, with extensive experience in ecological monitoring or tropical aquatic ecosystems, will also be considered. Proficiency in statistical analyses, excellent verbal and written communication skills, and excellent computer skills are required.


American Samoa, a Territory of the United States, is 2,600 miles southwest of Hawai’i. The Territory consists of 5 volcanic islands and 2 coral atolls. The largest island, Tutuila, is the seat of government and commerce and the location of the ASEPA office.


This position is a 2-year contract position, with some medical and housing benefits. Salary is $38,000 per annum. Approximately 5 weeks of paid vacation are accrued annually. Some relocation expenses will be provided.


To apply, please send a cover letter and current CV and arrange for 2 letters of reference to be sent to asepa_research@yahoo.com. Electronic applications are strongly encouraged. In lieu of electronic submission, application materials can be sent to the Director, American Samoa EPA, PO Box PPA, Pago Pago, AS 96799. For full consideration, deadline for all application materials is March 4, 2005.