Job Description
The Research Assistant will work in the Motta Lab at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. We are looking for a Research Assistant to assist with laboratory daily activities and potential fieldwork in the Pacific Ocean. The work involves the analysis and preparation of pelagic zooplankton samples for bulk mercury stable isotopes, phytoplankton experiments, and the development of compound- specific mercury isotopes. There is also the possibility for fieldwork in the Indian Ocean, during which we will collect samples to assess mercury cycling. The Research Assistant must be hardworking, detail-oriented, and able to work independently with little supervision.
Essential Functions:
The Research Assistant will work with and trained by Motta. Examples of essential functions include:
- Maintaining phytoplankton and zooplankton cultures
- Acid cleaning
- Samples digestion for methylmercury analysis
- Running the mercury analyzers
- Commit to a healthy workplace climate
Research Assistant 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.
- 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;
- 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.
Education & Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, Environmental Science, Oceanography, Biogeochemistry or related discipline.
- Previous experience with both laboratory and field setting is desirable.
Salary Range:
- Research Assistant I – $45,918 – $58,917
- Research Assistant II – $51,025- $65,604
Anticipated Start: The position start is Dec or Jan 1st.
