Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute (HSWRI) is accepting applications for the position of Marine Aquaculture Postdoctoral Research Associate, within its Sustainable Seafood Program in southern California.

Institute Description:

Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute (HSWRI) is a nonprofit, marine science organization that conducts research related to its mission of promoting ocean conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources. Founded in 1963, HSWRI operates two research facilities in California: one in San Diego's Mission Bay and the other in Carlsbad, in addition to a facility in Melbourne Beach, Florida. The Institute's research covers a wide range of topics, including marine mammal behavior, physiology, and health, as well as the development of innovative aquaculture techniques for cultivating marine plants and animals. HSWRI' also researches oceanographic processes and the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems. The goal of HSWRI's research is to inform policy decisions and promote sustainable management of the ocean's resources.

Program Description:

The Sustainable Seafood Program (SSFP) at HSWRI is seeking to help the USA reduce its significant reliance on imported seafood and foster locally grown, sustainably produced, high-quality, nutritious and healthful seafood through aquaculture. This includes developing production techniques for seaweeds, invertebrates, and finfish, including integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) systems. In addition to our goal of producing food directly, we are also heavily involved in the use of aquaculture for stock replenishment—to help conserve populations of marine organisms that are depleted from overfishing or struggling in the face of climate change.

Job Summary:

PRAs work under the direct supervision of a HSWRI Senior Research Biologist (SRB), in this case the Chief Science Officer (CSO). The primary focus of the position will be to help expand research into the propagation of new aquaculture species with an emphasis on low trophic level organisms. Priority areas of research interest include propagation methods (e.g., spawning and larval rearing), nutrition, and physiology. Although possible research approaches will be suggested at the start of the post-doctoral position, the associate will be expected to contribute substantially to the design and conduct of the work. This position will be funded for two years (upon favorable annual reviews), with potential for advancement to Research Scientist depending on successful completion of project goals, contributions to publications, and grant and fundraising activities during the term of the position.

Responsibilities:

1. Research 50%
   • Conduct research at the level of a Research Scientist, consistent with the 2 HSWRI mission, SSFP research goals, and the candidate’s research interests.
   • Help to develop research plans, project methods and timelines, and resource requirements to execute.
   • Coordinate/supervise technical staff, intern and graduate student support as needed.
   • Develop and maintain relationships with other aquaculture facilities and Universities.
   • Assist with permits and approvals related to this research (e.g., scientific collecting, IACUC, etc.).
2. Preparation of Publications 20%
   • Assist in analysis of data and preparation of reports and publications for ongoing projects; the candidate will have input into the selection of the topic(s).
3. Proposal Development & Fundraising 20%
   • Work collaboratively with the other researchers and the HSWRI Development team to increase financial support for SSFP projects.
   • Identify and cultivate potential supporters and donors.
   • Communicate the mission of the laboratory and its achievements to a variety of stakeholders, including decision-makers and the general public.
4. Representing Research Programs and Outreach 10%
   • Prepare and present results in professional venues such as meetings or lecture presentations at local universities.
   • Represent research projects through participation in outreach and development activities.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in a relevant science discipline (Biology, Physiology, Zoology, etc.), preferably within the last 5 years.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the use of standard word processing and spreadsheet programs.
• Experience rearing marine organisms.
• Experience operating and maintaining seawater aquarium/culture systems.
• Proven track record of successful scientific project completion and publication.
• Ability to work in an aquaculture environment and in the field.
• Prior experience with community outreach, and fund raising/grant writing

Salary: $65,000-$72,000 (commensurate with qualifications), plus benefits

Location: San Diego, California

Application Deadline: April 30, 2024.

Learn more about this opportunity and how to apply.