ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Initiate, maintain and scale kelp cultures at BMSC, and, as needed, at Deep Bay Marine Station, in collaboration with the culturing and operations team.
- Coordinate lab operations, including spore release, culture initiation, media preparation and changes, water quality maintenance, contamination checks, and biobanking.
- Support preparation of kelp gametophytes for outplanting (e.g., tiles, spools).
- Contribute to optimizing kelp culturing, nursery and outplanting techniques through experimentation, literature review, and knowledge exchange with external experts; present recommendations to the KRI team.
- Isolate gametophytes and conduct targeted genetic crosses for genomic studies. § Help develop and refine standard kelp culturing protocols.
- Perform independent and team-based lab and fieldwork, including sterile techniques, DNA extractions, light microscopy and various assays.
- Participate in scientific dives to outplant and monitor kelp, collect samples, and measure site conditions.
- Keep detailed, accessible lab records and provide regular updates via reports and presentations.
- Assist with report writing and publications; optionally lead nursery experiments and related publications.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Degree in Biology, Environmental Science, or related discipline
- Previous course work with phycology or similar experiences
- Strong organizational and project management skills
- Proficiency with standard computer tools (email, word processing, spreadsheets, Zoom, Slack)
- Ability to work independently and solve problems with minimal supervision in lab and some field settings
- Experience working in geographically dispersed or collaborative teams
- Valid BC driver’s license
- Flexible availability, including occasional early mornings, evenings, and weekends
- Satisfactory Criminal Records Check and Vulnerable Sector Screening
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Excellent time management and ability to prioritize tasks independently
- SVOP certification (including valid First Aid, MED A3, SDV-BS, ROC-M)
- Experience trailering and launching small boats (up to 20’)
- Scientific Diver certification (CAUS Level 1 or AAUS equivalent)
- Previous experience with aquarium or aquaculture systems
- Comfortable working in adverse weather conditions for extended periods
- Previous experience at remote research stations
- Strong communication skills for both technical and general audiences
Salary range: $54,000 – $60,000 Annually
Location: Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre, Bamfield, BC