Shellfish Positions Available

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Collection Manager, Invertebrate Zoology (primary focus Mollusca): The Field Museum is hiring a Collection Manager to oversee its world-class recent invertebrate collections.  The Field Museum is a not-for-profit museum located on Chicago’s Museum Campus.  The Field Museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of zoological specimens. The 5 million-specimen Invertebrates Collection comprises over 400,000 catalog entries. The actively growing collection serves as a research resource for national and international scientific communities. Containing unique material of special historical and ecological significance, the collection is world-class in size, as well as taxonomic breadth and geographic scope.  With a primary focus on Mollusca, the collection encompasses all invertebrate groups except arachnids, myriapods, and insects. The phylum Mollusca comprises 95% of the total collection and is worldwide in scope, with 45% of holdings terrestrial, 40% marine and 15% freshwater. Around 10% of the mollusc collection is fluid preserved, with the vast majority of specimens stored dry. Within the 17,000 non-molluscan lots, crustaceans, echinoderms, and cnidarians comprise the largest holdings; of these 70% are fluid preserved. Noteworthy are several thousand lots (molluscan and non-molluscan) from deep-sea habitats including hydrothermal vents, cold seeps, and wood falls. Approximately 2,000 tissue samples for genetic resources are stored in the Cryogenic Facility. Data are managed on an Axiell EMu platform. Ongoing efforts are focusing on digitization of specimen data and images, geo-referencing, and the assorted mobilization of data to national and global aggregators such as IDigBio and GBIF. The Collection Manager reports to the Head of Zoological collections and leads day-to-day activities in the Invertebrates Collection, including management of staff. The Collection Manager works jointly with Curators to set long and short-term priorities for the Invertebrates Collection. The Collection Manager also interacts with other collections areas, research scientists, exhibitions developers, and education staff. The Collection Manager may pursue research for up to 20% of their work time and seek funding for collections improvements and collections-based research projects. The successful candidate will be evaluated on the demonstrated ability to promote, study, build, care for, and ensure accessibility to a large, active, and diverse collection. Qualifications: Masters in Biology (with an emphasis in an area of Invertebrate Zoology) with at least 3 years collections experience or PhD (with an emphasis in Invertebrate Zoology) with at least one year experience; well-versed background in Invertebrate Zoology and museology is required, preferably with a focus on malacology; familiarity with other invertebrate collections and research is desirable; Knowledge of taxonomic principles and invertebrate collection management; Strong organizational skills necessary to keep collection accessible; Ample experience with collection databases, imaging systems, and data aggregators is required, as is experience managing digitization projects; Working knowledge of international and domestic regulations for shipment of specimens and requirements for packing loans; Strong history of building and managing a diverse team of staff, interns, and volunteers; Strong communication skills including electronic and written formats, public speaking and proposal preparation; Ability to work with a variety of preservation chemicals (e.g., ethanol). Applications must include a Cover Letter, CV, and contact details for three references to be considered. Review of applications will begin on January 15, 2022.  Please send all application materials to [email protected] For complete job description and to apply: https://careers.hireology.com/fieldmuseum/706815/description (posted 12/5/21)

Research Scientist (or Postdoctoral Associate) (Florida, USA): The University of Florida is seeking a motivated Research Scientist (or Postdoctoral Associate) to work on the development and application of germplasm cryopreservation technology for oyster breeding program and seed production. Full time (40 hr/week) for one year with possible extension for another two years.  The component of this project will include: 1) germplasm cryopreservation technology development; 2) oyster and clam spawning, larval culture, and breeding, and 3) collaboration with team members and industry members for technology application.  The successful applicant will have opportunities to work in the field with local industry farms, in the research hatchery with the team member for oyster and clam breeding, and in the molecular lab and UF core facility for genetic analysis.  This position will be based at the Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Program (FAS) in Gainesville and will include periodic travel to Cedar Key, Florida (1-hr driving from Gainesville) for hatchery, nursery, and grow-out experiments.   Qualifications (minimum):  Completed PhD or M.S. degree in shellfish aquaculture and genetics-related disciplines.  Preference will be given to candidates with:  Research experience on shellfish broodstock culture, spawning, larval culture, and growout; Research experience on molecular analysis, such as transcriptome analysis, and capability for biological assays and breeding; Demonstrated research experience and peer-reviewed publication history, verbal and written scientific communication skills written; Demonstrated capability of time and project management.  Interested applicants should submit the following documents as a single pdf or word file via email to Dr. Huiping Yang, ([email protected]).  Cover letter summarizing interest in the position, qualifications, and experience, as well as research and career aspirations. Curriculum Vitae.  Names and contact information of three professional references.  Contact:  Dr. Huiping Yang with any questions. (posted 11/18/21)

Postdoctoral Associate/Senior Postdoctoral Associate (New York, USA): The School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences invites applications for the Postdoctoral Associate/Senior Postdoctoral position. The title/rank will be contingent upon the selected candidate's skills and experience in their area of expertise. A Postdoctoral Associate / Senior Postdoctoral Associate is needed to conduct research in Marine Genomics and/or Shellfish Genomics.  The Postdoctoral Associate will conduct research in the School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences under the supervision of Principal Investigator, Dr. Bassem Allam in the SoMAS Marine Animal Disease Laboratory (MADL). The Postdoctoral Associate will assist in the analysis of large-scale genomics sequences (RNASeq, RADSeq) to answer questions pertaining to the molecular mechanisms associated with the resilience of bivalve molluscs to pathogenic and environmental stress.  The successful candidate will show evidence of creativity and high productivity. The Senior Postdoctoral Associate will conduct research in the School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences under the supervision of Principal Investigator, Dr. Bassem Allam in the SoMAS Marine Animal Disease Laboratory (MADL), working on highly complex, and technically broad challenges and problems such as the analysis of large-scale genomics sequences (RNASeq, RADSeq, Genomes assembly and annotation) to answer questions pertaining to the molecular mechanisms associated with the resilience of bivalve molluscs to pathogenic and environmental stress.  The successful candidate will show evidence of creativity and high productivity.  For entire job description and how to apply: https://stonybrooku.taleo.net/careersection/2/jobdetail.ftl?job=2104375&tz=GMT-05%3A00&tzname=America%2FNew_York (posted 11/17/21)

Postdoctoral researcher (Louisiana, USA): The University of Louisiana at Lafayette invites applications for the position of a Postdoctoral Researcher with expertise in multi-stressor ecological research and experience in phytoplankton, shellfish, and/or coastal ecology. The Postdoctoral Researcher will work as part of the collaborative LO-SPAT project (www.lospat.org) which seeks to gain a better understanding of how stressors in the estuarine environment impact the ecology and physiology of oysters. The Postdoctoral Research will help lead experiments aiming to quantitatively assess the tolerance of oysters to low salinity conditions and relevant co-stressors (e.g., changing prey quantity/quality, turbidity, hypoxia, pH, etc.). The Postdoctoral Researcher will work with the project team, including academic collaborators, private industry, and state agencies on all aspects of the 3 to 5-year project (60%) and will have the opportunity to pursue individual research projects within that framework (40%). This position will be based in the laboratory of Dr. Beth Stauffer at the University of Louisiana, Lafayette (www.staufferlab.com). The position will require travel (weekday, overnight, and weekend) to other universities and to industry and state partners within Louisiana, Mississippi, and Maryland.  The ideal candidate would possess: Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline, including but not limited to: phytoplankton ecology, biological oceanography, shellfish/restoration and/or coastal ecology. Degree must be conferred by the start date of the position; Experience conducting multi-stressor experiments and frameworks for analyses and interpretation; Record of publication and presentation of results appropriate to career stage; Experience working as a part of a team and mentoring students (undergrad or graduate); Interest in engaging with partners and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds and with varied perspectives. This will be a 12-month, benefits-eligible, staff position with an initial appointment of 1 year. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. Continuation of the position beyond the initial appointment is possible up to 3-4 years total and will be based on availability of funds and performance.  Informal inquiries about the position can be sent to Dr. Beth Stauffer ([email protected]), but formal application must be filled out via the online system. In your application, please include 1) a cover letter describing your research interests and qualifications, 2) CV, and 3) contact information for three professional references (they will not be contacted until the short-list stage). Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. The start date is flexible, but we are hoping to fill this position by Feb 1, 2022. (posted 11/9/21)

Oyster Farm Technician (Florida, USA):  Treasure Coast Shellfish, LLC is in its second year of business & is a woman-owned & operated oyster farm based in Sebastian, FL and is looking for an oyster farm technician. The company is dedicated to sustainable shellfish farming, utilizing the most innovative growing techniques. Both full-time and part-time/seasonal opportunities are available. Those candidates selected will learn all aspects of working on an oyster farm & in our processing facility. Looking for curious, energetic, & self-motivated individuals who want to learn about the oyster aquaculture industry - in particular, the farming process. Preferred Experience:  Prior aquaculture experience; A sincere interest in aquaculture/shellfish culture;  Preferred Experience but not Required:  Education: Bachelor’s;  CPR Certified; Boat handling experience; SCUBA Certified;  Knowledgeable about Florida's Indian River Lagoon ecosystem. Job Requirements: Must be at least 18 years old; Must be organized, punctual, & on time for work; Must have a valid driver’s license & reliable transportation to work sites in Indian River, St. Lucie, & Martin counties; Must be capable of understanding & following instructions from the supervisor; Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions - wet, cold, hot, dry, & rough water, at various times of the day, including early morning hours, evenings, & weekends when necessary; Must be able to swim; Must be physically able to lift, push, & pull up to 60 pounds; Must wear proper safety and personal protective equipment (PPE) when necessary and comply with all health & safety guidelines; Must be able to speak & understand English; Must work well with other crew members, & independently; Must maintain work area(s) & be respectful of neighboring communities & businesses; Must have their own supply of dive mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, dive booties, rain gear etc.  Compensation & Schedule:  Starting pay is commensurate with experience.  Temporary Pay: $8.00 - $15.00 per hour. A review of applications will begin November 22, 2021. Submit a cover letter, resumé & list of at least 3 references to Nicolette Mariano via email to [email protected]  Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please email Nicolette with any questions (posted 11/8/21).

Laboratory Researcher IV (New Jersey, USA): Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking a Laboratory Researcher IV for the Haskin Shellfish Research Lab. Duties include but are not limited to production of cultchless eastern oyster, bay scallop, and surf clam seed in accordance with existing NJAIC protocol for sale to private industry, coordination and interaction with private industry growers, assisting with ongoing externally funded culture efforts, and training and oversight of a small team of seasonal undergraduate and graduate student technicians. Among the key duties of this position are the following: Oversee daily bivalve hatchery activities including broodstock conditioning, spawning, larval rearing, post-set husbandry, and grow-out of juveniles; Manages all shellfish production orders, ensures shellfish industry growers obtain product in a fair and timely manner, as well as coordinates with principal secretary to maintain a transparent payment and delivery system;  Trains and oversees seasonal technicians in culture techniques and equipment handling/maintenance; Installs and maintains laboratory support systems, culture equipment, and facility equipment.  For complete job description and to apply: https://jobs.rutgers.edu/postings/146958 (posted 11/4/21)

Postdoctoral Research Position in Modeling Interactions among Wind Energy and Shellfish Fisheries (New Jersey, USA):   Post-Doctoral Associate position available immediately. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary team whose goal is modeling economic and ecological interactions of two major commercial shellfish fisheries and proposed wind energy farms along the US Atlantic coast. The commercial shellfish fisheries along the east coast are among the largest (by landed weight) and most valuable (by dockside value). These clam and scallop fisheries are also at the greatest risk of being negatively affected by offshore wind development because of their overlap with existing lease areas, and the nature of the vessels and fishing gear used. The novel agent-based modeling approach developed and used in this research will serve to answer questions about interactions among fisheries, wind energy, and future climate conditions, providing timely science tools for management decision-making.  The position is based at the Haskin Shellfish Research Lab (located in Port Norris, NJ) at Rutgers University, in Professor Daphne Munroe’s group, however remote participation is possible. Will include frequent meetings with project collaborators and advisors from management and fishing communities. Funding is in place for one year, with possible extension through 2 years. The postdoc will be responsible for coordinating meetings with interdisciplinary teams, collection of data from advisory teams, assessments and primary literature, planning and running simulations of ocean energy/fishery interactions, and writing manuscripts about results. We seek applications from candidates with experience or interest in shellfish fisheries and numerical modeling. The project is highly collaborative and interdisciplinary, and we invite applications from candidates who excel in teamwork environments and are interested in building a dynamic network of collaborators.  Minimum Education and Experience:  PhD in marine biology, ecology, fisheries, data science or related fields.  Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:  Preference will be given to applicants with 1) expertise in shellfish ecology, fisheries, or resource management; 2) strong communication, team building, and organization skills; 3) ability to code in R, MatLab, Fortran or similar languages; and 4) strong publication record and proven written and oral communication skills. Valid Driver’s License required.  Special Instructions to Applicants: Submit a single PDF with cover letter, CV, and names/contact information of three references to Dr. Daphne Munroe at dmunroe “at” hsrl.rutgers.edu. Review of applications will continue until a suitable candidate is found. For job listing and to apply: https://jobs.rutgers.edu/postings/121757 (posted 11/3/21)

Postdoctoral Research Position in Shellfish Pathology Biosecurity (New Jersey, USA): Post-Doctoral Associate position available immediately. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary team developing and Regional Shellfish Seed Biosecurity Program (RSSBP) designed to inform shellfish regulators and producers involved in the production and transfer of shellfish within and among bodies of water and differing legal jurisdictions.  A shellfish health database has been designed and is expanding to include the Gulf of Mexico.  The successful candidate will be responsible for soliciting data, developing and analyzing the data, and suggesting or implementing database modifications.  The candidate will become proficient in use of the database and in training others to utilize the database.  The candidate will also participate in the companion shellfish seed hatchery compliance program including managing annual audits and their findings.   The position can be based at the Haskin Shellfish Research Lab (located in Port Norris, NJ) at Rutgers University, in Professor David Bushek’s lab group or in the Office of Research Analytics (located in New Brunswick, NJ).  Remote participation is possible, but travel will be required periodically for team meetings, attendance at workshops and conferences, training of various stakeholders, and participation in hatchery audits. Frequent meetings, likely online, with project collaborators and advisors from management and aquaculture communities will be required. Funding is in place for one year, with the expectation of a second year from a grant that is currently funded. The postdoc will be responsible for coordinating meetings with interdisciplinary teams, collection of data from the primary literature and various stakeholders, planning and obtaining stats and site comparisons from the database as well as writing reports, manuscripts, factsheets and webpages about results. We seek applications from candidates with experience or interest in shellfish pathology, management, and aquaculture. The project is highly collaborative and interdisciplinary, and we invite applications from candidates who excel in team environments and are interested in building a dynamic network of collaborators. Minimum Education and Experience:  PhD in marine biology, ecology, fisheries, data science or related fields.  Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:  Preference will be given to applicants with 1) expertise in shellfish pathology, aquaculture ecology, fisheries, or resource management; 2) strong communication, team building, and organization skills; web programming and/or database management.  Special Instructions to Applicants:  Submit a single PDF with cover letter, CV, and names/contact information of three references to Dr. David Bushek at bushek “at” hsrl.rutgers.edu. Review of applications will continue until a suitable candidate is found. For complete job listing and to apply: https://jobs.rutgers.edu/postings/146329 (posted 11/3/21)

Postdoctoral Research Position (New Jersey, USA): Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join a research team on a project that will involve both field-based and laboratory-based experiments. Position is based at the Haskin Shellfish Research Lab (located in Port Norris, NJ) and will include travel to meet with project collaborators and advisors from management and fishing communities. Funding is in place for 18 months, with possible extension subject to funding. The postdoc will be responsible for coordinating experiments which will include farm-scale grow-out experiments in the ocean, lab-scale multi-stressor (temperature and ocean acidification) experiments in the hatchery, meetings with industry and management collaborators, and writing reports and manuscripts about results. Opportunities for grant writing, undergraduate student mentoring, and presentations at science conferences will be encouraged.We are looking for applications from candidates with experience or interest in shellfish aquaculture and with a strong background in experimental design and data analysis. This research will involve time at sea on commercial vessels. The project is highly collaborative and interdisciplinary, and we invite applications from candidates who excel in team work environments and are interested in building a strong network of collaborators. Minimum Education and Experience: PhD in ecology, aquaculture, fisheries, biological oceanography or related fields.  Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Preference will be given to applicants with 1) expertise in shellfish aquaculture, ecology, or resource management; 2) strong communication, team building, and organization skills; 3) quantitative statistical and data analytical skills; 4) ability for at-sea work on commercial vessels, and 5) strong publication records and proven written and oral communication skills.  For complete job description and how to apply:  https://jobs.rutgers.edu/postings/146604 (posted 11/1/21)

Assistant/Associate Professor, Biology (Fisheries and Mariculture) (Texas, USA): The Department of Life Sciences at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (TAMU-CC) invites applications for a 9-month, tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor of Biology (Fisheries & Mariculture) and Program Coordinator for the Fisheries and Mariculture program (FAMA) to begin spring 2022. Rank will be determined upon qualifications. We seek a motivated and talented person who can work in Mariculture-related sciences, and applicants whose expertise is complementary to that of existing faculty and who can fill known gaps in the department are especially encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will be expected to develop a vigorous, externally funded research program, supervise graduate students in the FAMA MS program and Marine Biology PhD program, and teach courses consistent with their individual expertise.  Required Qualifications: Ph.D. degree in Fisheries Science, Biology or related field specializing in Mariculture; A strong publication record in leading journals.  Preferred Qualifications: Individuals with active, externally-funded research programs and collaborations, who can take advantage of potential faculty collaborators and our research laboratories and equipment, including the Texas A&M AgriLife Mariculture Research Facility, High Performance Computer Center, Isotope Core Lab, microscopy and other analytical facilities; Applicants whose research focus is complementary to existing faculty in the department are especially encouraged to apply.  A completed application must include: Cover letter, Statement of research interests, Teaching statement that details a) preferred teaching interest and teaching philosophy, and b) strategies to guide/grow the FAMA program. Curriculum vitae, Four professional references including name, address, title, telephone number, and email addresses including a current or previous supervisor.  The position will remain open until a finalist is selected. Review of applications will begin in November 2021. For more information, please contact: Dr. Christopher Hollenbeck ([email protected]).  For complete job description and to apply: https://tamus.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/TAMUCC_External/job/Corpus-Christi-TAMUCC/Assistant-Associate-Professor--Biology--Fisheries-and-Mariculture-_R-042373 (posted 10/21/21)

Master's Graduate Student Opportunity: The Virginia Institute of Marine Science is currently welcoming applications for an interdisciplinary Professional M.A. in Marine Science, designed to produce graduates with the advanced knowledge, skills, and experience needed to translate, integrate, and apply marine science to issues of pressing societal concern. This program combines a rigorous academic curriculum in marine science with professional development opportunities including an experiential internship and capstone project tailored to the individual interests of the student. Students will join the globally recognized Virginia Institute of Marine Science and William & Mary communities, and engage with top aquaculture specialists on a path to providing critical marine science research, education, and advisory services. Closing date, December 30th, 2021. For more information and to apply: https://www.vims.edu/education/graduate/admissions/degree_options/m.a._degree/index.php (posted 9/29/21)

Conch Farm and Nursery Operator (St. Vincent and the Grenadines): this position would help establish a sustainable aquaculture operation in SVG dedicated to the study, hatching, and rearing of Queen Conch (Aliger gigas). Kalinago Fresh has been involved in purchasing, processing, and exporting seafood products, primarily conch and lobster, from SVG and the surrounding island nations for close to a decade now. The partnership group is comprised of marine biologists, business people, archaeologists, exporters, and members of the traditional fisher people across the archipelago. Although the conch is most often viewed as both a source of food and income, it is critical to remember that this species holds an immense cultural value for people all across the Caribbean as it has been an integral part of their society dating back to the times of the indigenous Caribs and Kalinago groups.The purpose of our project is two-fold: to first create a commercially viable conch farm, and secondly to aid in the repopulation of native habitats across SVG to support both the ecological and cultural value of the conch. To accomplish these goals, we are looking for an individual to immediately join our team and help build this project from the ground up.  The ideal candidate will be able to take the lead on this project and focus on the following tasks: Site selection and design for both the hatchery and nursery operation on mainland St. Vincent and the grow out farm somewhere in the Grenadines; Supervise construction and operation of aforementioned installations including ordering materials and working with the group on shipments of materials; Interface regularly with government officials for compliance and regulatory issues; Interaction with local fishing groups and NGOs on joint venture projects across SVG; Train local employees to work in established facilities.  We are seeking an individual with experience in international aquaculture farming, preferably with crustaceans, shellfish or similar species. An advanced degree (M.S.) with a minimum of 10 -years’ experience is preferred, but applicants with a B.S. in marine biology or aquaculture and experience in a hatchery setting may also suffice. The position will require a great deal of field work both on land and in the sea, therefore our ideal candidate should be prepared for the physical nature of this job. SCUBA certification and experience in the field, which can often be in harsh environments, is required. Intimate familiarity in setting up and operating hatchery facilities is required. The applicant should have working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, PPT) and GIS software as well. A working proficiency in English is a must.Our optimal candidate would be interested to work with this project on a long-term basis, which could be up to 5 years. The position would be based in SVG and require regular travel throughout the country and region for training purposes. Compensation would be a monthly salary along with stipend for living expenses and could include equity in the project.  For any interested candidates please send us an email with a one page introduction letter describing your interest in the job and unique qualifications that would make you a good fit. Additionally we would like to see a CV with at least 2 recent work references. Please send all correspondence to: [email protected] (posted 9/15/21)