Job Details

Environmental DNA / Marine Fisheries Senior Scientist
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Position Number: 5474171
Location: West Long Branch, NJ
Position Type: Laboratory and Research

Monmouth University

Environmental DNA / Marine Fisheries Senior Scientist

Department: Biology

Position Summary:
Monmouth University is seeking applications for an Environmental DNA / Marine Fisheries Senior Scientist in the Biology department, which is part of the School of Science. This is a grant-funded position through 2025 (with anticipated extensions) through a contract with Monmouth University for fisheries monitoring related to offshore wind development off the New Jersey coast. The incumbent will work as part of a growing team within the research labs of Dunton and Adolf at Monmouth University, working on eDNA and acoustic telemetry monitoring of various offshore wind development areas.

The incumbent will coordinate, and lead field/lab research related to assessing marine fish communities using eDNA across pre-during-post construction phases of an offshore wind farm. This includes collection of eDNA samples, hydrographic (CTD) data, as well as conducting field experiments related to the sampling. The incumbent will also lead laboratory processing of eDNA samples, including filtration, DNA extraction, and metabarcoding library construction, as well as analyses. Offshore fisheries and eDNA sampling trips will occur seasonally (quarterly), and the incumbent will be in charge of preparing for/leading/processing/helping to analyze samples from the eDNA component of these sampling trips. Sampling trips are coordinated with fish trawling trips (up to 7d duration at sea) conducted by a partner university, and the incumbent will be expected to contribute to fish sampling (e.g., sorting, measuring, weighing, tagging, fin clip sampling) on these trips. The incumbent will be expected to lead report/manuscript writing, presentations at national meetings, and contribute to outreach and education.

Candidates who have completed all their graduate work toward a terminal degree, with the exception of a thesis or dissertation (e.g., ABD status), will also be considered.

This is an in-person, on-campus, non-remote position.
A complete list of job duties is available at http://jobs.monmouth.edu.

Required Degree, License or Certifications:
Bachelor's degree

Required Skills or Software:
Excellent interpersonal, organizational and communication skills

Required Years of Experience: 2

Other Requirements:

Bachelors degree or higher
A minimum of two (2) years experience working in a molecular laboratory setting
Demonstrated competency with molecular biological techniques, including DNA extraction and PCR
Demonstrated ability to analyze and visualize data with R statistical programming language
Ability to work extended periods (up to 7 days) at sea on vessels up to 27m under possible inclement conditions
Ability to complete mandatory safety training for at-sea work associated with this position (e.g., STCW or equivalent) within 180 days of registering for the training
Physical ability to routinely lift up to 50 pounds
Ability to drive motor vehicles (e.g. vans / trucks) to and from research sites

Preferred Qualifications:

Masters of Science in a related scientific field or Ph.D. degree in a related scientific field with relevant work experience and experience in marine fisheries and eDNA
Significant experience in lab/project management
Areas of expertise should include estuarine and/or coastal ecology
Demonstrated ability to conduct field and laboratory experiments independently
Ability to organize and coordinate long-term, multi-institutional, ecological sampling and data collection program
Familiarity with metabarcoding library preparation and related techniques
Familiarity with Illumina next generation sequencing platforms
Experience with (or ability to learn) field oceanographic sampling techniques and data organization (e.g., CTD data)
Ability to operate small boats independently
Experience with reporting of scientific results in peer-reviewed journals

Log in to http://jobs.monmouth.edu to apply and see the job duties for this position no later than the deadline date.

Posting Date: 07/29/2024
Closing Date:

Located along New Jerseys northern coastline, Monmouth University is a top-tier, private comprehensive institution that is home to innovative academic programs, expert faculty, and nationally ranked Division I athletics. The University enrolls approximately 5,000 students in 62 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including four doctoral programs.

Small classes geared toward individual attention and immersive learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom, define the student experience at Monmouth. The University's dynamic learning environment empowers students to become active participants in their education while fully preparing them for life after graduation. Monmouth's faculty, experts in their respective disciplines and industries, foster student growth by collaborating with undergraduates and graduates in their research and scholarship.

Approximately one hour from New York City and Philadelphia, Monmouth University sits at the heart of a vibrant culture rich in history, the arts, technology, and entrepreneurship. The University's 170-acre coastal campus has been named one of the most beautiful in the world, and blends the classic elegance of National Historic Landmarks with state-of-the-art facilities.

A multitude of experiences is available just outside the campus gates. Access Asbury Parks legendary music scene and diverse cultural opportunities supported by an active LGBTQ+ community. Enjoy Red Bank's lively theater and dining hub and Long Branch's redeveloped waterfront with recreational and upscale shopping offerings.

Founded in 1933 as Monmouth Junior College, the institution became Monmouth College in 1956 and received its university charter in 1995. Today, Monmouth University is listed in U.S. News & World Report's "Best Colleges" in the Regional Universities North category, is listed in The Princeton Review's "The Best 389 Colleges: 2024 Edition", Money magazine's "Best Colleges in America 2023," Forbes' "America's Top Colleges 2023", and is recognized in Washington Monthly's annual college guide and rankings.

Monmouth University is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.