The Marine Biology Research Division (MBRD) consists of research groups broadly in the fields of cell and developmental biology, ecology, evolutionary, and conservation biology, microbiology, and the physiology of marine organisms that encompasses more than 20 laboratories.

Cell and Developmental Biology: biochemistry, functional genomics, ecotoxicology, and morphogenesis of model marine invertebrates, including sea urchin, corals, and mollusks. Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology: phytoplankton ecology, coral reef ecology, evolution and development of marine invertebrates, conservation of marine organisms and habitats. Microbiology: diversity and distribution of marine viruses, bacteria, and phytoplankton, including symbiosis with marine animals, biogeochemistry, secondary metabolite production, and microbial adaptations to environmental extremes and other environmental stressors. Physiology: biomechanics and locomotion, sensory biology, bioluminescence, and biochemistry of marine animals, including host-symbiont relationships.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Under supervision perform standard repetitive technical experimental procedures focused on microplastics, to assess their global geographical distribution and their possible biodegradation. Perform sample processing, filtration, and acquire brightfield, epifluorescence and infrared (FTIR) images of samples to assess their content (how much of what microplastic is present). Samples may be received from other labs within PI professional network and this position will be responsible for coordination with these other labs. Perform experimental biodisintegration and biodegradation experiments under controlled aquarium flow experiments. Perform these experiments with samples exposed to different treatments, containing or not melanin (or other natural bioactive compounds) for coloration or for UV protection. Performance of these treatments will be assessing under experimental UV experiment exposure and artificial sunlight exposure. Assess the role of melanin (natural, purchased) or synthetic (made in the lab) in terms of applications for UV protection and color making. This will include making agarose gels with various amounts of melanin, applied or not to different materials (plastics in particular). Compare analysis with natural samples available in the lab (feathers, butterfly wings, seeds, lichens), including assessing the level (number) of microplastics contamination from the samples. Perform data analysis with imaging software in coordination with other colleagues involved with melanin and/or microplastics. Organize samples, their storage, and the organization of their analyses on files.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in biology, marine science or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience with data analysis.
• Experience with imaging and computer processing.
• Experience with imaging, especially in brightfield, epifluorescence, FTIR, and computer processing for image analysis, to be shared with people virtually.
• Strong skill in using Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Standard bench skills such as pipetting and making artificial sea water and buffers and gels.
• Experience with working in an experimental environment.
• Experience with working in a clean environment.
• Experience assisting in experimental design.
• Excellent interpersonal skills including tact, diplomacy, and flexibility with the ability to work independently or within a team framework in conjunction with principles of community with staff, faculty, researchers, and students.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $53,766 - $64,143 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Learn more about this opportunity and how to apply.