DESCRIPTION

Independently and as part of a team, contribute to current and ongoing scientific research projects within a marine ecology laboratory at Scripps Institution of Oceanography (SIO). As a coral reef ecologist, perform a variety of tasks related to the collection, processing, analysis, and interpretation of benthic as well as fish data. Complementing biophysical research, contribute to assessments of socioeconomics of small-scale fisheries, including data collection, analysis, interpretation, and reporting. Conduct underwater diving (SCUBA) and snorkel surveys to assess and monitor coral reef ecosystems. Conduct various underwater sampling techniques including: photomosaicing, fish transect counts, benthic photograph transects and implementation of permanent monitoring sites.

Conduct techniques in data extraction, with particular emphasis in ecological analysis of images. Perform biological analysis of ecological data and create visual images to display data using GIS software. Using industrial machinery and power tools, build experimental equipment for field research. Independently conduct procuring, inspecting, inventorying, maintaining and preparing scientific equipment and gear used in field settings. Perform lab maintenance and management, ordering supplies, providing computer and network support, servicing and maintaining equipment, coordinating activities of lab assistants, students and volunteers, and assist in preparing written lab and field reports.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in natural sciences (Biology, Marine Biology, Ecology, or comparable organismal discipline), or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong background in coral reef ecology.
• Theoretical knowledge of and experience in coral reef ecology.
• Theoretical knowledge of and experience in socio-economics of small-scale reef fisheries.
• Familiarity with anatomy, biology, and dissection of coral reef fishes.
• Demonstrated experience reviewing scientific data sets, summarizing findings and referencing current publications.
• Must have current AAUS Research Diver certification, or comparable research diving qualifications.
• In­-water sampling skills (e.g., snorkeling, SCUBA). Experience conducting various underwater sampling techniques without direct supervision including: photo-mosaicing, fish transect counts, benthic photograph transects and implementation of permanent monitoring sites.
• Experience in using various computer programs such as Microsoft Office, EndNote, statistical software such as R, image analysis software such as Image­J and Adobe products such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and Bridge, as well as GIS software including ArcGIS (ESRI).
• Ability to use industrial machinery and power tools.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills. Demonstrated experience interacting effectively with diverse groups of people, often in other countries.
• Demonstrated experience to use ingenuity, resourcefulness, and adaptability for the special and changing needs of the research team.
• Skill, ability and willingness to learn new laboratory techniques, use of lab equipment and computer hardware/software rapidly and as needed.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Must have current AAUS Research Diver certification, or comparable research diving qualifications
• Travel will be required to conduct field work in various locations in the tropical Pacific and the Caribbean as part of a research team. Travel will take place 3-6 times per year, with each trip being 1-4 weeks duration.