Research Coordinator - Marine Ecology

Summary:
This position is responsible for coordinating marine ecology research projects at the Alaska SeaLife Center. These include research in marine food web dynamics, marine animal health, and integrated marine ecology.

Education/Experience Requirements:
• Required qualifications: MSc degree in biology, zoology, wildlife ecology, or related field, or BSc degree with minimum 2 years of experience in a related field. Experience with laboratory instruments and supply procurement and maintenance, and experience conducting laboratory analyses. Knowledge and experience with field operations and experience in coordinating research projects. Proficiency in computer skills, experience with data management, and basic knowledge about statistical analysis of data.
• Preferred qualifications: Experience with biochemical and molecular laboratory analyses preferred. Experience conducting field studies in Alaska, and knowledge and experience in vessel-based marine surveys and identification skills of Alaskan species.

Primary Responsibilities:
1. Functions as a coordinator for assigned research projects conducted at the Alaska SeaLife Center. Coordinates and provides assistance to the PI, including scheduling, coordinating projects, project planning and administration (assistance with proposals, permits, budgets, reports, publications), and general logistics.
2. Conducts laboratory analyses, and coordinates maintenance of research laboratory space, including instrument maintenance, safety and analytical protocols, sample collection, data entry, and record keeping.
3. Coordinates and participates in marine field research projects as assigned, including seasonal and year-round vessel-based surveys and collection of biophysical data.
4. Coordinates and assists with operating remote observation systems to monitor marine species, including monitoring seabird colonies. Assists with logistics of gear maintenance and set up, conducts observations, and summarizes and analyzes data from remote data acquisition systems.
5. Coordinates and conducts other fieldwork as assigned, potentially involving fieldwork at remote locations in Alaska.
6. Participates in and coordinates citizen science projects, including a student science project monitoring seabirds.
7. Coordinates and conducts experimental research projects at the Alaska SeaLife Center including collection of behavioral, physiological, and bioenergetics data from seabirds and other marine species.
8. Manages research databases and conducts statistical analysis of research data as assigned.
9. Prepares presentations and publications of research as assigned.
10. Coordinates management of the procurement, inventory, and maintenance of facilities, equipment and supplies to be used in research projects.
11. Supervises personnel matters for Research Technicians, interns, and volunteers as assigned. Assigns and checks work, establishes schedules, sets deadlines, delegates authority, and sets and reviews performance goals.
12. Works with other departments to communicate research to Alaska SeaLife Center audiences and to engage non-scientists with marine research.
13. Fosters good relations with visitors, volunteers, community leaders, contractors, and fellow staff members by promoting positive attitudes, goodwill, cooperation, and providing of service.
14. Complies with all Alaska SeaLife Center policies, procedures, and programs.
15. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Other Skills and Abilities:
• Organizational skills for data collection.
• Ability to prioritize the importance of proper, accurate data collection.
• Ability to multi-task while working independently.
• Comfortable working many hours a day in a laboratory or field setting.
• Ability to interface with researchers as required.
• Ability to communicate effectively with people at all levels, be organized, self-motivated, and possess a strong desire to see the completion of projects.
• Knowledge of basic research methods, data collection techniques, and database management. Experience with statistical analysis in R and spatial data software is strongly desired.

Physical Requirements:
• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• The position may involve assistance with field research projects including field work at remote locations in Alaska.

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Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums

APPLICATION DEADLINE:  OPEN UNTIL FILLED, Apply by 9/15/2025 for full consideration

START DATE:  10/1/2025                            

PAY RATE: $51,480-$56,160

Full-Time Position with Benefits

Please upload your resume, cover letter and letter of reference when you apply.

Must be able to pass a background check.