The Merrimack River Watershed Council (MRWC) is creating a new, full-time Lead Scientist position dedicated to designing and leading two major, multi-phase investigations: one in Newburyport Harbor, and one in the Lawrence Dam Impoundment. These locations see some of the heaviest recreational use anywhere on the Merrimack — and both carry a legacy of industrial and wastewater pollution that continues to shape water quality today.
For the past two years, MRWC’s volunteer-powered monitoring network has detected unexplained spikes in fecal bacteria in these two areas, in both wet and dry weather. The new Lead Scientist will lead the investigations and design flexible, iterative plans for these complex testing environments. Working side-by-side with MRWC’s existing water quality team and community scientist volunteers, these investigations will allow river communities to turn information into action. The organization has secured funding from both the state and from foundation partners to make this work possible.
“These are two of the places where the most people come into contact with this river — swimming, boating, fishing. Our data has shown there is cause for concern. This role means we finally have the dedicated capacity to find out what, and to work with the communities and agencies who can help fix it,” said Curt Rogers, Executive Director of MRWC.
Beyond the investigations, the Lead Scientist will supervise MRWC’s Water Quality Program Manager and a growing team, as well as oversee the organization’s baseline and hotspot monitoring on the Merrimack’s main stem. They will also lead engagement with municipalities, water treatment facilities, and environmental justice communities throughout the 5,000-square-mile watershed.
The position reflects MRWC’s broader strategy of turning years of volunteer-collected data into targeted, long-term scientific investigations rather than one-off sampling.
“Every one of our water quality tests, every staff and volunteer hour, every data point — it’s what allows us to execute our mission to improve and protect the watershed for everyone,” explains Rogers. “This role will allow us to expand our impact dramatically.”
MRWC is now accepting applications for the Lead Scientist position. Full details and how to apply are available at merrimack.org/employment. ♦
