Research Specialist Advanced – Plastics & Environmental Contaminants

W&M Entrepreneurship Hub; Gloucester; On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job description

Position Information

Position Number: 00630V
Position Title: Research Specialist Advanced – Plastics & Environmental Contaminants
Employment Category: Full Time
Operational Location: VIMS - Gloucester
Department: 1C1100 Ecosystem Health Unit

Mission Statement
The mission of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science and William & Mary’s Batten School of Coastal and Marine Sciences 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.

The Center for Coastal Resources Management (CCRM) at VIMS has a general mission to support informed decision-making on resource management issues at all levels of government, including private and corporate citizens. At CCRM, we conduct actionable science. Actionable science links science to action with the aim of improving the quality of life for citizens and includes not only information, but also guidance on the appropriate use of that information. This means that our research and expertise help shape environmental and economic policy decisions.

The Seeley Coastal and Marine Pollution Lab at VIMS studies the sources, fate and effects of pollutants in marine and aquatic environments. Research is largely focused on organic contaminants, including plastics (macro, micro and nano), petroleum from oil spills, tire and road wear, synthetic industrial compounds and more. The lab is active in the development of analytical chemistry tools to better characterize different aspects of these contaminants.

Position Summary
The plastics analyst will play a key role in the analysis of plastics and associated chemicals in a variety of matrices, including estuarine waters, biota, and sediments. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to a variety of ongoing and future research projects, but their primary responsibility will be contributing to plastics analysis within the high profile, nationwide TRAP Program (administered through the CCRM). This program focuses on derelict trap data collection, synthesis, and analysis to inform policy development. Expected outcomes include novel discoveries regarding the chemical composition, degradation, pollution and ecotoxicology of derelict fishing traps. Other projects that the plastics analyst may be involved in include, but are not limited to, analysis of other plastics and associated chemicals, and tire wear. The plastics analyst will also play a key role in laboratory training (particularly, students) and management.

Conditions of Employment
This is a restricted position, subject to the continued availability of funding.
Non-Exempt: This position may require overtime including scheduled and unscheduled, nights and weekends, and/or holidays.
Essential Designation: No
FLSA Non-Exempt: Yes
Position Restricted? Yes, the appointment is limited due to funding availability
Position Term: 12 months

Required Qualifications

• MS in Marine Science, Ecology, Marine Ecology, Fisheries Science, Quantitative Ecology, or related field, or comparable education and experience.
• Strong background in plastics analysis, including skills in Pyrolysis-GC/MS and spectroscopy-based techniques.
• Broad knowledge of plastic additive chemistry and analysis methods.
• Broad knowledge of coastal and estuarine systems.
• Ability to independently design and conduct experiments and analyze data.
• Demonstrated technical writing skills.
• Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills, and critical thinking ability.
• Strong organizational skills and proven record of data management.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Marine Science, Ecology, Marine Ecology, Fisheries Science, Environmental Chemistry, Quantitative Ecology, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated quantitative abilities in environmental chemistry.
• Evidence of scientific productivity including presentations and peer-review publications.
• Experience with field or laboratory experimental work.
• Experience with training students on laboratory techniques.
• Background in ecotoxicology.
• Computational abilities using R, Python, and/or ESRI software (ArcGIS).

Is the position remote work eligible? Not eligible

Advertised Pay Range Up to $55,000
All hiring rates are commensurate with relevant experience up to the advertised amount considering internal alignment.

Benefits Summary Statement
William & Mary offers our employees a full array of benefits including retirement, health insurance with options for expanded dental and vision along with group and optional life insurance with coverage for spouse and children, flexible spending accounts, and an EAP (Employee Assistance Program). Our employees enjoy additional university benefits such as educational assistance, professional development, wellness benefits, and a robust holiday schedule. All employees have access to fitness facilities on campus. Staff members also have access to the university libraries, and much more. To learn more, go to: Benefits Information.

Job Open Date 04/11/2025
Job Close Date 04/25/2025

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.

Required Documents

• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• Cover Letter