We seek a dedicated and intellectually engaged Research Assistant to join a multi-organizational team to analyze audio and video of coral reef fishes. The ideal candidate will have a strong interest and background in reef fish behavior, ichthyology, coral reef science, marine biology, or bioacoustics. This role involves complex workflows using a combination of commercial and custom software, requiring a meticulous and detail-oriented individual. The position contributes to developing techniques for monitoring fisheries and marine protected areas.
Key Responsibilities:
- Analyze coral reef videos to identify reef fish species and document behavioral patterns.
- Utilize technical video editing software (e.g., DaVinci Resolve) and adhere to complex, standardized workflows to ensure accurate data collection and analysis.
- Manage and organize large datasets, ensuring data integrity and accessibility.
- Collaborate with the research team to develop and refine analysis protocols.
- Maintain detailed records of observations and findings.
- Prepare reports and presentations summarizing research results.
- Edit media for presentations and publications, ensuring high-quality visual and audio content.
- Maintain online resource libraries.
- Assist in the development and implementation of new research methodologies as needed.
- Participate in team meetings and contribute to the overall research goals.
Qualifications:
We are open to candidates with a variety of training backgrounds, including:
- A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biology, Zoology, Marine Biology, or a related field. We will also consider applicants currently pursuing a relevant degree.
- Experience in natural history film editing with a demonstrated interest in using media for biological research.
- A demonstrated deep appreciation for fish behavior and identification. This person may have an unrelated educational background but robust technical skills and a willingness to learn and master new skills quickly.
Additional requirements include:
- Ability to follow detailed instructions and work within complex workflows.
- Strong observational skills and attention to detail.
- Written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Previous experience in bioacoustics, animal behavior, or fish biology.
- Experience with video or audio editing software, especially Blackmagic DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Premiere and Audition, Audacity, or Reaper.
- Experience with audio analysis software such as Raven and Passive Acoustic Monitoring methods.
- Proficiency in data analysis.
- Knowledge of coral reef fishes and other marine life.
- Interest in pursuing a career in conservation technology, marine biology, natural history film, museums and aquaria, or other relevant fields.
Working Conditions:
- This on-site position requires 30-40 hours of work per week. Work must be done at our newly established offices in Arlington, Virginia. Because of the workstation requirements, remote or hybrid work is not possible.
- Working hours and days are negotiable.
- The role involves extended sitting and viewing video footage, often with headphones.
- Opportunities for fieldwork may emerge, but this is primarily an office-based data analysis position.
Funding and Duration:
- This position is currently funded for eight months, with the intention of extension contingent on funding availability.
Compensation:
- Pay Range: $22 – $34 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience.
- While we cannot offer health insurance or a retirement plan at the moment, we are committed to providing a supportive and enriching work environment. As we expand, we will reevaluate our capacity to provide these benefits.
- Paid Time Off
- 12 paid vacation or personal days per year (accrued one day each month).
- Six sick days per year (accrued .5 days each month).
- Paid holidays, including New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and a day of winter holiday.
