Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for a Research Assistant to join the Geology & Geophysics Department. This is a full-time, non-exempt position, and is eligible for full benefits.
The Seafloor Samples lab at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is seeking a new a new member to its technical team. The successful candidate will be hired as a Research Assistant and will work under the facility’s curator as a curatorial assistant with some supervision. This person will facilitate the collection, curation, and distribution of repository samples to support research efforts throughout the U.S. and abroad. Prior experience operating machinery, conducting geological surveys, and/or sample acquisition is desirable but not required. Candidates should have relevant experience with geological lab work and sample/data management.
The successful applicant will support the curation of seafloor materials housed in the Seafloor Samples Lab repository by fulfilling sample requests, cataloguing materials, running samples on the CT/XRF scanner, rehabilitating samples, and controlling data quality. Additionally, the applicant will contribute to field programs, including the maintenance of coring systems, transport of equipment by trailer to field sites, and participation in research cruises. The individual may also be asked to coordinate additional field expeditions on an as-needed basis. Good troubleshooting skills, effective time management, excellent communication skills, and attention to detail are essential.
The internal working title for this position will be 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
- Manage day-to-day operations and safety of the lab
- Oversee projects and lab work produced by interns working in the lab
- Run samples on the CT and X-Ray Fluorescence scanners and process data
- Prepare and analyze sediment samples for grain size, radiocarbon dating, Cs-137 and Pb-210, and organic content
- Plan, pack for, and participate in field programs
- Travel (anticipated) for various types of cruises and field work, on both land and water
- Maintain lab databases and quality control of records
- Digitize records and update the catalogue accordingly
- Assist repository users in finding appropriate samples for their research
- Ability to operate a forklift and overhead hoist (training provided)
- Participate in outreach events, lead tours of the facility, and maintain the lab’s social media accounts
Education & Experience
Research Assistant 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.
Research Assistant 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.
Desired Experience:
- The successful candidate should also have computer skills, communication skills, attention to detail, critical thinking, and an ability to work with a team in time-sensitive situations.
- Boat trailering
- Experience operating small boats
- Hand tools, power tools, and machine shop
