Research Assistant
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for a Research Assistant to join the Lindell Lab in the Advanced Ocean Physics and Engineering Department to work on projects related to aquaculture research of seaweeds. This is a full-time job with unique training and advancement opportunities at the world’s largest private non-profit oceanographic institute. Ideal candidates have some experience in algae or seaweed biology, and are familiar with techniques for microscopy and sterile culture of microorganisms. The range of duties include setting up and executing research experiments, laboratory and phenotypic analysis of seaweeds, water quality analysis, laboratory culture of seaweed germplasm and juveniles. Responsibilities include helping to prepare farm structures and assist farm installation and decommissioning. Applicants would ideally have experience with statistical analysis and database functionality. This is a regular, non-exempt position, and is eligible for benefits.
RA II:
With some supervision, employs established laboratory procedures, standard equipment, and fundamental concepts to conduct research tasks determined by field of study and scope of individual research project.
RA III:
With little supervision, applies a broad knowledge of laboratory principles, equipment, and procedures to the completion of moderately difficult assignments determined by field of study and scope of individual research project.
Minimum requirements are a Bachelors degree and one year of experience, or a Masters in Science.
The internal working title for this position could be either Research Assistant II or Research Assistant III. The final level of the position will be determined commensurate with the selected candidate's level of education & experience.
Essential Functions
RA II:
Ideal candidates have some experience in algae or seaweed biology, and are familiar with techniques for microscopy and sterile culture of microorganisms. The range of duties include setting up and executing research experiments, laboratory and phenotypic analysis of seaweeds, water quality analysis, laboratory culture of seaweed germplasm and juveniles. Responsibilities include helping to prepare farm structures and assist farm installation and decommissioning. Applicants would ideally have experience with statistical analysis and database functionality.
RA II:
- Maintains records related to the research such as germplasm collection status and health, and phenotyping records of kelp crosses
- Executes designated research tasks, making use of selected laboratory experiments, equipment, field work, library research, data acquisition and processing, statistical analyses or other investigative techniques to maintain healthy seaweed cultures. Organizes and summarizes acquired data, using scientific and statistical techniques including computer programs
- Organizes and/or drafts material for the preparation of research papers, manuscripts, or other documents for publication and/or presentation
- Participates in the design of experiments or field work
RA III:
- Coordinates research projects, using selected laboratory experiments, equipment, field work, library research, data acquisition and processing, statistical analyses or other investigative techniques;
- Organizes, interprets, and summarizes acquired data using scientific and statistical techniques including computer programs;
- Assists in preparation of proposals, manuscripts or other documents for publication and/or presentation;
- Participates in the design of experiments or fieldwork and may suggest modifications to current procedures;
- Acts as information source on specific research techniques and trains others in technical procedures and equipment operation;
- May supervise the activities of other support staff.
NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- As deemed necessary by supervisor
Education & Experience
Minimum requirements are a Bachelors degree and one year of experience, or a Masters in Science. Salary commensurate with experience.
RA II:
Bachelor's degree in related field, or Bachelor's degree in non-related field plus two years' related experience, or Associate's degree in related field plus three years' related experience, or High School diploma or equivalent plus five years' related experience.
RA III:
Master's degree in related field, or Bachelor's degree in related field plus three years' related experience, or Bachelor's degree in nonrelated field plus five years' related experience, or Associate's degree in related field plus six years' related experience, or High School diploma or equivalent plus eight years' related experience.
Special Requirements
- TWIC
- Must be a US Citizen
- Security Clearance
- Person drives WHOI vehicle
WHOI is a federal contractor required to comply with Executive Order 14042. As such, WHOI has enacted a Mandated COVID19 vaccination policy effective December 8, 2021 where you must register your vaccination status in order to begin your employment. The registration process entails confidentially submitting a vaccination card and/or your vaccination status or requesting to engage in the interactive exemption process for either a medical or religious reason.
Physical Requirements
Physical duties for this position include but are not limited to, ability to lift less than 25 lbs independently, 2 times per day; carry 10-25 lbs, 2 times per day. Visual abilities to include near, far, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to distinguish basic colors. Hearing requirements include the ability to hear and respond to instructions, communicate effectively in loud areas (pier/dock, warehouse). Other physical tasks include occasional prolonged standing/walking; use of hands for basic /fine grasping and manipulation, repetitive motion, reaching above and below the shoulders, pushing, pulling, kneeling, bending, twisting, and stooping. Other occupational requirements include talking, traveling, working around others, and with others. Will be exposed to dust or other irritants and electrical/mechanical/power equipment hazards. Physical duties are subject to change.
Sea Duty
May work at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. Sleep and work hours can deviate from those on land. May be expected to work on watch schedule (such as 8 hours on and 8 hours off or 12 hours on and 8 hours off) for all or part of a cruise or to work as hours are needed to accomplish the planned work. May need to travel during holidays and for long distances to and from foreign ports. May experience rudimentary living and working conditions, with shared and basic living quarters and laboratories. May experience bad or extreme weather conditions, including heavy seas, winter weather or hot, tropical weather. Work on deck may occur in both hot and cold conditions around the clock. Sea conditions will lead to active ship motion. Should be able to climb steep and vertical ladders and able to enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills. Should be able to carry heavy gear and participate in the loading and unloading of the ship as well as in the activities on deck and in the labs during the cruise. Shipboard environment may include: confined areas, shared sleeping quarters (berths) and bathroom facilities, small and basic berthing, fixed meal times and basic menus. Modest levels of heating, cooling, ventilation, and illumination, limited or no email and internet access and limited off-duty and recreational facilities (library, lounge, movies). May be exposed to potential allergens and irritants, including paint fumes. May experience constant and intermittent loud noises, and slippery and uneven surfaces.
WHOI is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans/M/F. We encourage Veterans and those with Disabilities to apply. Applications are reviewed confidentially. Applicants that require accommodation in the job application process are encouraged to contact us at (508) 289-2253 or email eeo@whoi.edu for assistance.