Chemistry and Biochemistry

Research Assistant – Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry Department, Woods Hole

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for a Research Assistant to join the Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry Department. This is a regular, full-time, non-exempt position, and is eligible for benefits.

We are seeking a Research Assistant to assist with fabrication, demonstration, and validation of an autonomous, low power, field deployable underwater Eddy Covariance H+ ion and Oxygen Exchange System (ECHOES) capable of long-term resolution of benthic fluxes of carbon and oxygen. These measurements pertain to several ongoing research projects in the MACHINE Lab (https://www2.whoi.edu/staff/mlong/) focused on engineering solutions, advanced instrumentation, and technology development to study biogeochemical cycling, physical transport processes, and bio-physical interactions in coastal marine environments. There will be opportunities for at-sea research on coastal research vessels and hands-on deployments of instrumentation at shallow coastal sites such as seagrass meadows or coral reefs.

While some degree of experience with mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, coding, sensing technology, biogeochemistry, or fluid dynamics is desirable, it is not expected that the applicant will necessarily have hands-on experience with more than a few of these topics. The MACHINE Lab has a strong interdisciplinary focus, and a successful applicant will have some experience in any of the topics above, with a desire to learn from and engage with other lab members on this interdisciplinary research team.

The internal working title for this position could be either Research Assistant II, or Research Assistant III. The final level of the position will be determined commensurate with the selected candidate’s level of education & experience.  This position is renewable annually depending on performance and funding availability. On-line application forms should be submitted, along with a detailed cover letter that outlines your prior experience as it pertains to this position and full curriculum vitae including contact information for three references. The position is available beginning September 1, 2022. Please state your availability in the cover letter.

Essential Functions

With some supervision, this person will serve as the lab manager responsible for day-to-day oversight and coordination, in addition to participating in a number of ongoing research programs. This person will also provide technical assistance on the development and deployment of a long-term eddy covariance system. Duties will include:

  • General laboratory coordination including safety related issues, oversight, and training, ordering supplies, maintaining equipment and laboratory organization;
  • May be responsible for the testing, calibration, and troubleshooting of field and scientific equipment, and for the planning and preparation for research cruises;
  • Assist with the fabrication or engineering of the field measurement system;
  • Deployment and site visits in a small boat with opportunities for snorkeling/diving;
  • Contribute to data analysis and data management for research related tasks.

Education & Experience

A Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Physics, Marine Science, Ocean Engineering or a related field is required.

Any of the following background experience is particularly desirable:

  • Experience coding (e.g., C++, Matlab, Python, etc.)
  • Working with microcontrollers and other electronic components
  • Experience with mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, 3D printing, or CAD
  • Coastal biogeochemistry
  • Instrumentation for turbulence, oxygen, pH or other oceanographic measurements
  • Some level of interdisciplinary marine research experience and/or a desire to learn new interdisciplinary skills

Special Requirements

WHOI is a federal contractor required to comply with Executive Order 14042. As such, WHOI has enacted a Mandated COVID19 vaccination policy effective December 8, 2021 where you must register your vaccination status in order to begin your employment. The registration process entails confidentially submitting a vaccination card and/or your vaccination status or requesting to engage in the interactive exemption process for either a medical or religious reason.

Physical Requirements

Physical duties for this position include but are not limited to, ability to lift less than 25 lbs independently, 2 times per day; carry 10-25 lbs, 2 times per day. Visual abilities to include near, far, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to distinguish basic colors. Hearing requirements include the ability to hear and respond to instructions, communicate effectively in loud areas (pier/dock, warehouse). Other physical tasks include occasional prolonged standing/walking; use of hands for basic /fine grasping and manipulation, repetitive motion, reaching above and below the shoulders, pushing, pulling, kneeling, bending, twisting, and stooping. Other occupational requirements include talking, traveling, working around others, and with others. Will be exposed to dust or other irritants and electrical/mechanical/power equipment hazards.  Must be able to function in a group/lab setting as well as alone.  Physical duties are subject to change.

Sea Duty

May work at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. Sleep and work hours can deviate from those on land. May be expected to work on watch schedule (such as 8 hours on and 8 hours off or 12 hours on and 8 hours off) for all or part of a cruise or to work as hours are needed to accomplish the planned work. May need to travel during holidays and for long distances to and from foreign ports. May experience rudimentary living and working conditions, with shared and basic living quarters and laboratories. May experience bad or extreme weather conditions, including heavy seas, winter weather or hot, tropical weather. Work on deck may occur in both hot and cold conditions around the clock. Sea conditions will lead to active ship motion. Should be able to climb steep and vertical ladders and able to enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills. Should be able to carry heavy gear and participate in the loading and unloading of the ship as well as in the activities on deck and in the labs during the cruise. Shipboard environment may include: confined areas, shared sleeping quarters (berths) and bathroom facilities, small and basic berthing, fixed meal times and basic menus. Modest levels of heating, cooling, ventilation, and illumination, limited or no email and internet access and limited off-duty and recreational facilities (library, lounge, movies). May be exposed to potential allergens and irritants, including paint fumes. May experience constant and intermittent loud noises, and slippery and uneven surfaces.

WHOI is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans/M/F. We encourage Veterans and those with Disabilities to apply. Applications are reviewed confidentially. Applicants that require accommodation in the job application process are encouraged to contact us at (508) 289-2253 or email eeo@whoi.edu for assistance.

DURATION

Permanent

CONTACTS

Savannah Scott

JOB FUNCTIONS

Lab Work/Science, Research

JOB ROLES

Chemists

WOODS HOLE OCEANOGRAPHIC INSTITUTION

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) is the world’s leading independent organization dedicated specifically to ocean exploration, research, education, and awareness. For more than 90 years, we’ve been at the forefront of groundbreaking science and technology development, unlocking the mysteries of the ocean and its connections to human lives and livelihoods. Today, our researchers are leading more than 800 concurrent projects around the globe, tackling some of the most challenging and important problems of our time, from climate change to plastic waste to sustainable food and energy production. This is an exceptionally exciting time for ocean research.

Qualifications

ALLOWED SCHOOL YEARS

Senior, Alumni

ALLOWED MAJORS

All Cyber Security, Computer Programming, Computer Science, Chemistry, Mathematics, Data Science, Earth Sciences, Astronomy/Space Exploration, and Information Systems Management majors

WORK AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENTS

US work authorization is required, but the employer is accepting OPT/CPT candidates