Job Ad – Data Scientist (full time)

Location: Could be based in St-Andrews (headquarters) or Fredericton, NB. Remote work within NB, QC, NS, PE or Maine (US) will be considered.

Preferred start date: January 2026

The Atlantic Salmon Federation (ASF) is an international conservation organization founded in 1948 to conserve and restore wild Atlantic salmon and their ecosystems. ASF is headquartered in St. Andrews, NB, Canada and maintains offices in Fredericton and Halifax, Canada, as well as in Brunswick, Maine, (USA). Through ASF’s membership and affiliated volunteer network, the organization represents more than 25,000 individuals who share ASF’s commitment to wild rivers and wild salmon.

Overview

Reporting to the VP of Research & Environment, the Data Scientist will lead analytical research focused on understanding the ecological, biological, and environmental factors influencing Atlantic salmon populations across their range. The incumbent will specialize in integrating and analyzing large, complex datasets, (e.g. including telemetry, genetic, environmental, hydrological, and long-term monitoring data) to generate insights that inform conservation and management decisions related to Atlantic salmon and the watersheds they inhabit.

Responsibilities and Duties

In this role, your responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Design and conduct advanced quantitative analyses of multi-source data (e.g., movement, survival, environmental variables, and habitat data) to identify trends, drivers, and uncertainties in salmon population dynamics. 
• Develop and maintain databases, data pipelines, and quality assurance procedures for large-scale ecological data. 
• Apply and refine statistical, spatial, and machine-learning models to address key questions in salmon ecology, migration, and survival. 
• Collaborate with academic, government, Indigenous groups, and NGOs  to synthesize information supporting science-based management and restoration of Atlantic salmon. 
• Lead or contribute to peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, and data visualizations for scientific and stakeholder audiences. 
• Translate analytical outcomes into actionable recommendations for conservation policy, habitat restoration, and adaptive management. 
• Provide mentorship and guidance on quantitative approaches, reproducible workflows, and data stewardship best practices.
• Conducting field assessments and data collection on Atlantic salmon populations and habitats, using established and novel protocols 

Competencies, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

This position requires professionalism, and strong written and verbal communication skills. A driver license is necessary. Technical skills in the following areas: Large data set management and spatial statistical analysis using R, Python, or comparable platforms, spatial analysis (GIS) telemetry, or time-series ecological data, and a strong publication record with experience communicating scientific findings to technical and non-technical audiences.

Knowledge, skills, and experience in the following areas would be considered an asset:

• Bilingual in French and English
• Knowledge of AI models and application to Atlantic Salmon research
• Electrofishing certification

Education and Experience:

Ph.D. in fisheries science, ecology, quantitative biology, data science or related discipline. Minimum 2 years working in the field of Atlantic salmon conservation or related field.

Compensation: ASF offers a competitive salary and benefits package including RRSP, vacation, sick leave, and health/dental coverage.  The salary range for the position is $80,000 – 109,000 and determined based on education and experience of the successful candidate.

To Apply: Please send a cover letter and resume to: Michelle McCray, Manager of People and Culture at mmccray@asf.ca by December 19, 2025. ASF thanks all applicants for their interest. Receipt of application will be acknowledged; however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.