The Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) is among the largest marine research and education centers in the United States. Located along the glistening beaches of Gloucester, Virginia, VIMS provides research, education, and advisory services to government, citizens, students, and industry in coastal oceans and estuary science.
VIMS is transforming data into policies, students into leaders, and theories into tangible change for solutions to global problems and to restore marine life.
The successful incumbent will join a dynamic and dedicated research team. In addition to the core competencies and experience, the ideal candidate will possess effective interpersonal, and communication skills, with the demonstrated ability to work as an effective team member.
The Marine Scientist position supports the SAV program in the Seagrass Restoration and Field Monitoring component, by helping with the supervision of grant and state funded research projects, including all field and laboratory studies.
Under general direction, reporting to the Assistant Professor Coastal and Estuarine Ecology, the Marine Scientist using considerable independence, the position takes a lead in day-to-day operations of all aspects of the Seagrass Restoration Lab.
Specific responsibilities include:
- Coordinates and supervises field ecological surveys, laboratory analyses and various research projects. Makes decisions regarding field sampling schedule, purchasing.
- Oversee sample processing and sorting ecological samples. Identifies algae and invertebrates from samples, entering data into a database, managing, and curating data, and extracting summary statistics from the database.
- Oversees and directs construction, maintenance, repair of research apparatus. Works with PI on design of system and sampling gear. Maintains outdoor seawater tanks and associated plumbing, operates various microscopes, and a range of other research apparatus.
- Oversees the storage, management and protection of physical samples and data, and ensures quality and integrity of data and statistical summaries and reports.
- Conducts data analysis including statistical analyses and producing graphs and figures.
- Prepares reports and contributes to manuscripts by providing text for the documents.
Required Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in the field of biology, marine science, or other related life science, or the equivalent combination of education and or experience directly related to the position.
Competencies:
- Strong working knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety protocol, with the ability to use laboratory equipment and adherence to detailed experimental protocols.
- Strong working knowledge and demonstrated skills in laboratory and field research principles and protocols with the ability to use a variety of laboratory equipment.
- Demonstrated knowledge of field equipment with the ability to maintain and troubleshoot technical issues and order parts to repair if necessary.
- Familiarity with snorkeling or SCUBA diving with the ability to snorkel comfortably in a wet suit.
- Familiarity with operating small vessels including trailering and launching.
- Strong computer proficiency with a variety of software applications, with strong data entry skills and proven ability with details and accuracy.
- Demonstrated skills in sampling, data collection with the ability to perform a variety of field/laboratory research procedures.
- Advanced analytical and technical writing skills, demonstrated ability to accurately interpret, report findings and prepare interpretative reports, charts, graphs and contribute to manuscript writings.
- Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify, troubleshoot and resolve technical issues independently while exercising sound judgement when making decisions.
- Strong scientific writing skills with the ability to assist and prepare material for publication.
- Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team member.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to work autonomously while managing multiple tasks and or projects concurrently.
- Ability to lift equipment weighing up to 50lbs.
- Ability to perform comfortably in the field and on the water in all weather conditions and resist motion sickness.
