Research Assistant II (MC&G)

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is seeking a Research Assistant II to join the Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry Department. This is a temporary, full-time, non-exempt position eligible for limited benefits, with potential for extension based on available funding.

About the role

The Research Assistant will be part of a collaborative team in the Hansel Laboratory investigating the role of chemically-modified substrates in coral restoration and ecosystem biodiversity. The primary focus will be maintaining and monitoring recirculating and flow-through aquaria, as well as high-throughput single coral fragment reactors in a newly renovated experimental facility. The role includes troubleshooting equipment issues, assisting in coral growth experiments, measuring nutrient and element concentrations, analyzing coral tissues, and processing data. Occasional fieldwork at coastal stations or at sea may be required.

Responsibilities

• Coral husbandry and aquaria maintenance
• Weekly aquaria water quality testing and adjustments
• Coral health assessments via pulse amplitude modulated (PAM) fluorometry
• Tracking coral growth over time using the buoyant weight method
• Coral tissue extractions for secondary analysis
• Coral tissue and skeleton analysis via microscopy, spectroscopy, and DNA analysis
• Data processing using spreadsheets and statistical analysis
• Documenting methods and results
• Communicating with team members and assisting in training students and staff
• Lab cleaning and management, as well as participation in outreach and educational activities as needed

Requirements

• Undergraduate degree in biology, biogeochemistry, or ocean science preferred
• Relevant work experience in coral research and husbandry
• Experience working with corals and/or benthic organisms
• Experience maintaining aquaria systems
• Ability to work independently and troubleshoot instrumentation (aquaria, sensors)
• Proficiency in data analysis, including spreadsheets and statistical tools
• Strong communication skills and ability to work with interdisciplinary teams
• Prior fieldwork experience in coral husbandry or reef restoration settings
• Ability to stand or bend for extended periods during aquaria work
• Willingness to conduct occasional aquaria checks outside standard business hours, including weekends

Qualifications

• SCUBA diving certification and/or willingness to obtain American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS) training (desirable but not required)

Pay

Salary range: $24.53/hour – $31.54/hour. Actual compensation will be determined based on relevant skills, experience, qualifications, internal equity, and market conditions.

Benefits

Eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package.