The Department of Marine Biotechnology's Tracy Lab at the Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology (IMET) in downtown Baltimore is hiring a Faculty Research Assistant (FRA), to lead field and laboratory research related to project on oyster parasites, biodiversity, and aquaculture. Research in the Tracy Marine Ecosystem Health & Disease Lab focuses on health of marine ecosytems in a changing ocean, including the ecology and evolution of host-parasite interactions and the microbiome, spatial ecology, fisheries management, aquaculture, and restoration. The successful applicant will be well versed in marine invertebrate biology, experiences with aquaculture techniques and priorities, and able to work well with diverse collaborators and teams.

Summary of Duties:

• Lead logistics for planning and executing field research on oyster aquaculture
• Manage collaborative relationships with aquaculture industry professionals and watermen
• Troubleshoot and develop field and lab protocols
• Process samples in the laboratory (dissections, morphometrics, DNA extractions, PCR, histology, microscopy, etc.)
• Contribute to data synthesis using publicly available data and spatial mapping software
• Contribute to data management, statistical analyses, and data stewardship
• Contribute to scientific manuscripts
• Present results at scientific and industry -facing meetings
• Perform field research /sampling on ecosystems (Chesapeake Bay) while working on small boats in inclement weather or harsh conditions, including lifting up to 40 lbs.
• Write and apply for competitive grants
• Contribute to lab and IMET outreach and engagement activities
• Participate in general lab maintenance: inventory, ordering, finances, permits, maintenance, safety, etc.

Remote work is possible at low frequency (10% or less) and will fluctuate seasonally based on in-person demands of field and laboratory research. Travel for research will be local (Chesapeake Bay).

This is a one-year term appointment with the possibility of renewal on an annual basis based on performance and funding.

The successful applicant will join a vibrant community at IMET where labs address global marine issues using diverse approaches. In keeping with the strong IMET community, the Tracy Lab emphasizes a positive, collaborative work environment and values diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice. This position will require working collaboratively with other technicians, interns, graduate students, and other labs.

 Experience and Education Required

• Bachelor's degree in related field (e.g., ecology, aquatic biology, molecular biology, microbiology, marine science); if not immediately relevant, please explain the connections in the cover letter
• Preferred: Master?s level education or equivalent experience
• Hands-on experience working in both field and laboratory research settings
• Requires travel to offsite locations

Required Skills:

• Knowledge of shellfish physiology
• Molecular biology and microbiology skills from coursework or research
• Use of spreadsheets to organize data, integrate data from multiple spreadsheets, calculate summary statistics, and use other functions
• Use of basic statistics and graphing tools to conduct analyses independently
• Execution of field sampling in inclement weather or harsh conditions
• Ability to lift and carry 40lbs
• Ability to work on small boats
• Strong organizational skills, initiative and ability to work independently
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Skills:

• Firsthand experience with shellfish aquaculture (research, industry, etc.), preferably oyster aquaculture
• Experience working in Chesapeake Bay ecosystems
• Experience in infectious disease diagnostic techniques and paradigms, especially shellfish disease
• Experience and skills in public engagement and stakeholder relationships
• Proficiency in spatial ecology and mapping software (GIS)
• Data management and analysis skills in R or similar software

For best consideration interested candidates should upload a recently updated curriculum vitae (2 page maximum) and a brief statement of research accomplishments, research interest and any other relevant experience (2 page maximum) to UMBC's Interfolio site not later than June 21st, 2024.

Please direct inquiries to Dr. Allison Tracy; amtracy@umbc.edu (Reference Job#146292).

UMBC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

About University of Maryland, Baltimore County

UMBC is a dynamic public research university integrating teaching, research and service to benefit the citizens of Maryland. As an Honors University, the campus offers academically talented students a strong undergraduate liberal arts foundation that prepares them for graduate and professional study, entry into the workforce, and community service and leadership. UMBC emphasizes science, engineering, information technology, human services and public policy at the graduate level. UMBC contributes to the economic development of the State and the region through entrepreneurial initiatives, workforce training, K-16 partnerships, and technology commercialization in collaboration with public agencies and the corporate community. UMBC is dedicated to cultural and ethnic diversity, social responsibility and lifelong learning.

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