Description
The U.S. Geological Survey’s Southwest Biological Science Center is seeking a university partner to serve as an affiliated partner in the Colorado Plateau Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU). The partner will conduct five years of ecological research on the Colorado River in Grand Canyon, Arizona, focusing on e‑DNA detection tools for parasites, diseases, invasive species, and aquatic insect prey, as well as developing predictive modeling tools. The award is a cooperative agreement (USGS will have substantial involvement) with an estimated total funding of $475,000, $125,000 in the first year and up to four additional years contingent on performance and fund availability. The effort requires strong expertise in molecular ecology, bioinformatics, field sampling, and data integration, and the ability to produce peer‑reviewed publications and data products for federal resource managers.
• Eligible applicants: Existing partners of the Colorado Plateau CESU (universities, research institutions).
• Funding: $475,000 total (≈$125k Year 1, remainder in Years 2‑5).
• Duration: Up to 5 years (1 base year + 4 optional years).
• Scope: Validate e‑DNA tools, develop modeling frameworks, conduct field sampling, manage data, and disseminate results.
• Deliverables: Annual progress reports, final technical report, peer‑reviewed papers, datasets, and a data‑management plan.
• Required registrations: SAM/UEI and Grants.gov Workspace.
• No cost‑share required.