Shellfish Aquaculture Research Manager

About the role

The Marine Science Institute (MSI) at The University of Texas at Austin invites applications for a Ph.D.-level Scientist to serve as Shellfish Aquaculture Research Manager at the Fisheries and Mariculture Laboratory. This position will lead the design, construction, and initial operation of a comprehensive oyster aquaculture facility, focusing on Crassostrea virginica.

Responsibilities

• Manage the scientific tasks related to the development of Texas triploid oyster lines, including design and implementation of captive breeding and spat production protocols, and experimentation on diploid, triploid, and tetraploid genetic lines.
• Oversee the maintenance and husbandry of broodstock, larvae, and spat stage oyster cultures.
• Contribute to the supervision of technicians, students, and staff related to the upkeep of seawater systems, algae feed cultures, and oyster husbandry.
• Contribute to data management, compliance, and progress reporting for the shellfish research program.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in marine science, aquaculture, fisheries, biology, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience in oyster aquaculture, including: broodstock management, larval culture and settlement, and nursery production.
• Hands-on experience with hatchery system design and operation.
• Strong knowledge of water quality management and aquaculture systems engineering.
• Experience with algal culture techniques.
• Proven ability to work independently while coordinating across interdisciplinary teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience designing or commissioning aquaculture or hatchery facilities.
• Familiarity with Gulf of Mexico oyster systems and environmental conditions.
• Experience with recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS).
• Knowledge of disease management and biosecurity in shellfish hatcheries.
• Record of applied research, industry collaboration, or technology transfer.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in marine science, aquaculture, fisheries, biology, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience in oyster aquaculture, including: broodstock management, larval culture and settlement, and nursery production.
• Hands-on experience with hatchery system design and operation.
• Strong knowledge of water quality management and aquaculture systems engineering.
• Experience with algal culture techniques.
• Proven ability to work independently while coordinating across interdisciplinary teams.

Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and coordinate across interdisciplinary teams.
• Proficiency in data management and compliance.
• Experience with shellfish genetics and aquaculture.
• Knowledge of shellfish disease management and biosecurity.

Benefits

N/A

Pay

$85,000 + DOE

Schedule

N/A