Staff Biologist Phytoplankton Ecology
(Posted 09/21/2021)

Target Audience: Technician/Staff


Institution: Mote Marine Laboratory

Institutional Web Link: http://www.mote.org

Description of Internship or Research Opportunity: The Phytoplankton Ecology Research Program at Mote Marine Laboratory seeks a Staff Biologist to assist with a variety of tasks and activities in the Program, with emphasis on conducting phytoplankton culture, laboratory analysis of samples, participation in field efforts, and other duties as required. The position will be located at the primary Mote campus in Sarasota on City Island at 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway.

Essential Job Functions:
Primary duties will include:
• Participation in the set-up and execution of laboratory experimental assays including sample collection and processing, data recording and electronic data entry
• Participation in field work (potentially including multi-day research cruises) including sample processing, recording of data and other information, collection of water samples and specimens for experiments or analysis and operation of scientific equipment
• Training on and operation of a variety of laboratory and field instruments, including regular maintenance and calibration
• Maintenance of phytoplankton cultures

Additional activities may include:
• Occasional assistance to other Laboratory Programs
• Assistance and participation in Laboratory special events
• Providing training and assist with supervision of undergraduate and graduate interns
• Other duties and activities as assigned

To execute the above duties and activities, the employee will be responsible for:
• Maintaining proper laboratory techniques for the handling, storage and analysis of cultures, samples and other laboratory materials
• Preparation, maintenance and calibration of instrumentation
• Cleaning of laboratory glassware and equipment and general laboratory maintenance.


Skills and Qualifications:
• Valid Driver’s License
• Baccalaureate degree (BS) in biology, aquatic ecology, marine science, or a related field
• At least 6 months related experience with basic laboratory skills and equipment (microscope, balance, pipettes, etc.)
• Familiarity with standard computer software (Word, Excel, Powerpoint)
• Ability to work individually and in a group setting with scientists, staff, students and interns
• Ability to occasionally work longer hours in the field or laboratory when needed.
• Candidate should have good communication skills and be able to maintain a high level of work quality and accuracy.

Desired Skills:
Preference may be given to candidates with working knowledge and experience with any of the following: Flow Cam, PAM fluorometry, phytoplankton culture, CTD deployment and/or data processing, data processing and graphing programs (ex. Excel, Surfer, R, Origin, etc.)

Working Conditions:
This is a regular, full-time, and is expected to begin on or after October 1, 2021. Daily hours may vary based on need and can be modified with prior supervisor approval. Occasionally, longer hours may be required due to field work, underway experiments, and other research-related efforts. Work may be conducted in the laboratory or in the field, as described above, depending on need.

Salary range starts at $33,000/yr, with pay commensurate with level of experience. Annual merit and cost of living increases will be considered with appropriate work performance. Partially-subsidized health insurance is provided, with family options available. Benefits include an opt-in retirement plan with employer matching, leave for holidays, illness, and vacation, and other benefits. The Staff Biologist will be part of the Mote Phytoplankton Ecology Research Program and will organizationally report to the Phytoplankton Ecology Research Program Manager.


Funding Source: Other


How to Apply: Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing 2021 Staff Biologist Phytoplankton Ecology at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm October 1, 2021.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify


Application Closing Date: 10/01/2021

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