The Hopcroft lab within the College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences (CFOS) is looking for a motivated individual with interests in the study of zooplankton within high latitude ecosystems. The lab spans the full spectrum of zooplankton groups from crustaceans to gelatinous taxa, from morphological to molecular identifications, and from net-based sampling to in situ imaging. The position will involve several weeks per year in the field (typically on larger research vessels), operation and maintenance of field-going electronic equipment, plus processing of samples in the laboratory and conducting preliminary analysis of the data generated. The opportunity also exists for varying degrees of involvement in scientific publication. Prior experience working with zooplankton is required, as is computer proficiency. Prior experience is desirable but not required for molecular laboratory work or imaging systems, as essential training on either can be provided.

CFOS is one of the most geographically diverse units at UAF. The College is headquartered in Fairbanks with additional locations in Anchorage and our coastal facilities include the Seward Marine Center, the NOAA-UAF Kasitsna Bay Laboratory, and the Juneau Lena Point Fisheries Facility. The College has over 150 faculty, researchers and staff based throughout Alaska. 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Marine, Biological Science or related discipline plus several years of experience applicable to the duties of the position; OR a Master’s degree with 0-2 years of relevant postgraduate experience (Master’s preferred).
• A valid driver’s license and clean driving record in compliance with UA Safe Driving Criteria is required.
• Position requires lifting of up to 50lbs and strenuous physical activity both indoors and outdoors.
• Must be able to work in wet and cold environments. 

Position Details:

This is anticipated to be a long-term hire as part of larger team of zooplankton professionals and graduate students. This position is located on the Troth Yeddha’ campus in Fairbanks Alaska. The position has some flexibility in work schedule and the number of hours worked per week, such that the successful candidate may elect to work less than full time if desired (i.e., from 20-40 hours per week).

This is a term-funded, exempt staff position complete with both a competitive salary and full employee benefits package. UA provides a generous compensation package that includes retirement options, annual leave, 12 paid holidays per year, tuition waivers for employees and family members, and affordable medical, dental and vision care coverage. New hires will be placed on the UA Staff Salary Schedule, Grade 79, based on education and experience.

Applications will be accepted for review on February 19, 2026, to ensure consideration, please apply by 11:55 PM, Alaska Standard Time on February 18, 2026. This position is open until filled.

Please upload a cover letter, resume, and the names with contact information for three (3) professional references with your application.

The University of Alaska (UA) reserves the right to require employees to work on-site at the UA facilities. Hybrid and remote work may be approved for employees based in Alaska at the University’s discretion. Remote work for employees based outside the State of Alaska may be approved only in exceptional circumstances or when required by the position’s job duties.

📃To view the full list of job responsibilities, please click HERE.

☎️If you have any questions regarding this position, please contact Laura Frisone, College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences HR Coordinator, at uaf-cfos-hr@alaska.edu or (907) 474-7383.