USGS Testing the Bats and Wind Attraction Hypothesis

About the role

The USGS Testing the Bats and Wind Attraction Hypothesis project aims to evaluate mechanisms underlying seasonal hoary bat occurrence, movement dynamics, and potential attraction to wind-energy infrastructure using North American Bat Monitoring Program (NABat) data and innovative dynamic occupancy modeling approaches.

Responsibilities

• Rapid compilation and preprocessing of NABat hoary bat data (Weeks 1–2)
• Standardize data formats, apply quality filters, and construct detection–non-detection histories suitable for dynamic modeling
• Prepare preliminary spatial layers to support model covariates
• Develop a prototype within-season dynamic occupancy model (Weeks 2–5)
• Implement a simplified but robust dynamic occupancy framework focused on estimating bi-weekly immigration and persistence at a 10x10km grid cell
• Conduct rapid diagnostics and cross-validation to ensure the model is stable and fit for exploratory inference within the shortened timeline
• Produce initial occurrence and movement-related probability surfaces across the study period
• Evaluate wind-energy covariate effects to test the attraction hypothesis (Weeks 4–7)
• Integrate turbine-related covariates (facility proximity, turbine density, landscape context) at multiple spatial scales (e.g., 1–10 km)
• Run model scenarios to estimate effects of turbine features on immigration and persistence parameters
• Identify preliminary evidence of attraction-consistent movement or site reuse
• Rapid assessment of existing hoary bat occupancy maps as predictors of summer directional movement (Weeks 6–8)
• Compile legacy NABat occupancy maps for hoary bats
• Compare directional patterns (e.g., latitudinal or elevational gradients) against outputs from the new within-season model
• Assess alignment and identify areas where static occupancy surfaces fail to capture movement trends
• Synthesis, visualization, and short-form reporting (Weeks 8–10)
• Integrate findings across tasks to outline key spatial and temporal patterns of potential turbine attraction
• Create preliminary maps, summary figures, and short briefing documents
• Prepare a concise final report or draft publication summarizing model behavior, initial findings, uncertainties, and recommendations for follow-on action

Requirements

• Currently pursuing or having received a bachelor's or master's degree in relevant fields such as Chemistry and Materials Sciences, Communications and Graphics Design, Computer, Information, and Data Sciences, Earth and Geosciences, Engineering, Environmental and Marine Sciences, Life Health and Medical Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics, Physics, Science & Engineering-related, or Social and Behavioral Sciences.
• Degree must have been received within the past four years, or anticipated to be received by 6/1/2029.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate should be highly motivated, possess strong analytical skills, and have a keen interest in wildlife research, conservation, and data science. Experience with ecological modeling, data analysis, and familiarity with NABat data systems are preferred.

Skills

• Data analysis and modeling
• Ecological knowledge
• Software proficiency (e.g., R, Python)
• Attention to detail
• Strong communication skills

Benefits

This 10-week research experience offers participants:

• Applied experience in ecological modeling and data science
• Mentorship from USGS scientists
• Experience with national-scale monitoring data
• Insight into federal science careers and collaborative research
• A focused research product

Pay

The participant stipend rate may vary based on numerous factors, including opportunity, location, education, and experience. If you are interviewed, you can inquire about the exact stipend rate at that time and if selected, your appointment offer will include the monthly stipend rate.

Schedule

The appointment will initially be for 10 weeks, but may be renewed upon recommendation of DOI and is contingent on the availability of funds.