Research Scientist Associate I

About the position

The purpose of this role is to assist in the research of the Beaufort Sea and conduct field work along the Arctic coast, as well as local estuarine systems of South Texas.

Responsibilities

• Assist with logistics associated with field sampling and sample collection following SOPs in South Texas estuarine systems and the Beaufort Sea (Utqiagvik, Deadhorse, Kaktovik)
• Operate small boats, snow machines, and ice drills for sample collection.
• Assist with biota sorting and identification in the lab (using compound and dissecting scopes).
• Conduct routine laboratory analyses for constituents including dissolved inorganic nutrients (ammonium, nitrate, phosphate), stable C and N isotopic composition, dissolved and particulate organic matter, sediment grain size and chlorophyll.
• Calculation of stoichiometric ratios
• Maintain records of supply and travel purchases.
• Produce written quarterly and annual reports as required by sponsors.
• Maintain field logs for instruments and sensors and accurate records and backups of data.
• Mentor teachers and students selected for research experiences.
• Participate in public education and outreach activities.

Requirements

• B.S. degree with major coursework in marine/environmental science plus two years of related experience
• Ability to use specialized research instrumentation/equipment as required by the project.
• Background in benthic studies that includes work in seagrass, marsh, and open bay bottoms in estuarine and coastal systems.
• Knowledge of the application of isotopic and stoichiometric signatures in ecology

Nice-to-haves

• M.S. degree with major coursework in marine/environmental science.
• Experience working in estuarine environments in both low and high latitude systems (all seasons) on small boats and research vessels.
• Ability to conduct remote field work for extended periods ranging from 3-6 weeks.
• Experience with short- and long-term deployment of field instrumentation (for example, CTDs (RBR, YSI, Hobo, Star-Oddi), SeaFETS, LI-COR light meters, and Lowell tilt current meters; familiarity with in situ sensors (pressure, dissolved oxygen, PAR, and chlorophyll), and associated instrumentation software.
• Positive personality and ability to work in groups.
• Clear evidence of professional writing and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Word, R, Excel, and data acquisition programs.