Research Assistant I for C Marsh

The Ecosystems Center at the Marine Biological Laboratory is seeking applicants for an entry-level Research Assistant I position with the C Marsh Project. Coastal marshes support extremely high plant productivity under challenging environmental conditions. The C Marsh project is examining how high plant production and high carbon burial are maintained in this very dynamic environment. This part of the project focuses on iron and sulfur cycling in coastal marsh sediments. The position is based in Woods Hole and involves a mix of lab and field work.

About the role

We seek individuals with strong experience in independent research (e.g., senior thesis or REU project) and coursework with laboratory and field components. Applicants should have a demonstrated aptitude for biology, chemistry, and ecology, including advanced coursework, and have an interest in learning biogeochemical techniques. The successful applicant will gain broad experience in careful laboratory analyses, with a focus on sulfur, iron, and carbon, as well as learning field techniques.

The field work is carried out in the marshes surrounding Plum Island Sound, north of Boston. During the field work season, candidates make 1 to 3 trips to the field station for 1-3 days each month. Experience with small boats is desirable, as well as higher-level chemistry courses that included a lab.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory analyses focused on sulfur, iron, and carbon cycling in coastal marsh sediments.
• Participate in field work, including trips to Plum Island Sound marshes (1-3 days per month during the field season).
• Perform independent research tasks as part of the C Marsh project.

Requirements

• B.A. or B.S. in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Ecology.
• Strong experience in independent research (e.g., senior thesis or REU project).
• Coursework with laboratory and field components.
• Demonstrated aptitude for biology, chemistry, and ecology, including advanced coursework.
• Interest in learning biogeochemical techniques.

Physical Requirements

• Capability to get into and out of small boats.
• Ability to walk significant distances across salt marshes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with small boats.
• Higher-level chemistry courses that included a lab component.

Preferred starting date: October 5 (somewhat flexible). Application closing date: September 11, 2026.