Research Associate – level 1 or 2 Molecular Biology and Biogeochemistry Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences
BACKGROUND: We are looking for a Research Associate at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (BIOS). The position will be shared between Drs. Amy Maas and Leocadio Blanco- Bercial, whose focuses are on characterizing the biodiversity and biogeochemical contributions of the zooplankton in the Sargasso Sea and beyond. The technician will be working on a new NSF funded project about circadian physiology, a NASA EXPORTS project detailing zooplankton contributions to carbon flux, and the BIOSSCOPE project exploring the interactions between zooplankton, microbial communities and DOM. The position is available starting January 2019 and review of applications will be ongoing until a suitable candidate is found. RESPONSIBILITIES: Candidates must be able to spend time at sea on both small and large vessels. The ideal candidate will have a background in biology/biogeochemistry with experience in molecular biology techniques. Although experience is desirable, training will be available and most important is a willingness to learn, attention to detail and a capacity to spend time at sea. Some tasks are quite tedious, requiring dedication and patience. This person will be expected to go out to sea 4-6 times per year for 1 week periods. Specific responsibilities include sample preparation and image scanning of zooplankton samples, molecular extraction of zooplankton DNA/RNA, buffer preparation, enzyme assays, data management and record keeping. Some lab management tasks will be required (e.g. ordering supplies, maintaining equipment, etc). REQUIREMENTS: BSc/BA in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or related field required, Master’s degree desirable. Experience working in a molecular biology/biogeochemistry lab, whether at the undergrad or grad level, is desirable. Experience working with DNA extractions is highly desirable, although training will be provided. Competence in standard computer software such as Word and Excel is a must. Willingness to work at sea for ~1 week to 1 month periods of time, with an expected at sea presence between 1-1.5 months over the course of the year is required. TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: The position is available for a one-year term to start as soon as feasible, with the potential for extension. It will be filled in accordance with the policies of BIOS and the Immigration Department for Bermuda. Starting salary is $36,000-$38,000 USD depending on level of experience. The Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (BIOS), Inc. is a U.S. incorporated 501(c)(3) not-for-profit research and education institution employing a multi-national staff of approximately 80 people. Activities include oceanographic and marine biological research conducted by resident and visiting scientists, and university level courses on topics ranging from marine pollution to remote sensing. Additional information on BIOS can be found on the World-Wide-Web at http://www.bios.edu/. Please send your CV and a statement of research interests to: Dr. Amy Maas at amy.m...@bios.edu
