Marine Ecology Researcher

The mission of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) and William & Mary’s Batten School of Coastal and Marine Sciences (Batten School) is to seek and broadly communicate knowledge in marine and coastal science to the Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world through research, education, and advisory service.

VIMS’ strategic sections are committed to the development of resilient systems through a focus on three grand challenges, ensuring science for stewardship of:

• Ecosystem Health: connecting physical, chemical, biological, and socioeconomic systems to address environmental and community vulnerabilities.
• Natural Resources: providing translational science for sustainable management of coastal socio-ecological systems, especially fisheries and aquaculture.
• Coastal and Ocean Processes: connecting global trends and local drivers to understand and address environmental change.

Position Summary

The Marine Scientist position provides technical assistance to ongoing field and lab projects examining disease transmission dynamics in blue crabs and oysters. Responsibilities include:

• Build and maintain aquaria for disease transmission studies.
• Conduct sampling for crabs and bivalves for disease transmission experiments.
• Maintain experiments under specified conditions.
• Conduct data management, data analysis, and other preparations for reports and manuscripts.

Conditions of Employment

This is a non-exempt position, eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act and university policy. This position may be subject to overtime during high peak times, nights, weekends, and holidays, as directed and approved by supervisor. This position is a temporary (hourly) position not to exceed 6 months. All hourly employees are subject to the limitations of the Virginia Manpower Control Program and total hours worked may not exceed on average 29 hours per week, over the course of a twelve month period beginning May 1 each year. We will not sponsor applicants for work visas for this vacancy.

Required Qualifications

• BS/BA in Biology or Marine Science or related field or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge of biological research procedures including field and laboratory techniques.
• Demonstrated knowledge and skill in data management and advanced statistical computing.
• Knowledge of marine organisms of the Chesapeake Bay.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Excel, and basic statistical programming.
• Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively as an effective team member.
• Ability to swim and perform shipboard sampling.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds.
• Experience in working with aquaria in recirculating or static systems.
• Experience in field sampling and data collection and management.
• Experience with data analysis and preparation and writing of scientific manuscripts.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s in Marine Biology or related field.
• Working knowledge of operating small boats and trailering.
• Working knowledge of aquaria and aquarium maintenance.
• Operating and trailering small vessels.

Additional Information

Is the position remote work eligible? Not eligible.

Advertised Pay Range: $25 per hour.

All hiring rates are commensurate with relevant experience up to the advertised amount considering internal alignment.

University Salary Range: U08.

Benefits Summary Statement: N/A.

Job Open Date: 03/24/2025.

Review Begin Date: 04/01/2025.

Job Close Date: 04/10/2025.

Open Until Filled: No.

Special Application Instructions

William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

EEO Statement

William & Mary values diversity and invites applications from underrepresented groups who will enrich the research, teaching, and service missions of the university. The university is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.