Research Aquarist

Job Title
Research Aquarist

Agency
Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi

Department
Harte Research Institute

Proposed Minimum Salary
Commensurate

Job Location
Corpus Christi, Texas

Job Type
Staff

Job Description
TAMU-CC is a dynamic university designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) with approximately 11,000 students from 47 states and 54 foreign nations. We employ over 1,400 full-time and 2,000 part-time Islanders (including students/GAs). The University attracts highly talented faculty and staff and offers an array of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including doctoral programs. As a member of the Texas A&M University System, TAMU-CC benefits from a range of resources, increased visibility and influence, and opportunities to collaborate in mutually beneficial ways with peers across member institutions and associated agencies.

TAMU-CC's beautiful campus is located on a 240-acre island on Corpus Christi Bay and was ranked #1 College by the Sea by Best College Reviews. Our natural setting is enhanced by its modern, attractive, and state-of-the-art classroom buildings and support facilities.

Learn more information here!

PURPOSE

The Research Aquarist position at the Coral Reef and Ocean Health Research Group of the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies (HRI) is integral to the development and operation of HRI's research initiatives. This role involves providing advice and support to researchers in conducting experiments, as well as in animal husbandry and maintenance. The successful candidate will lead and implement activities to develop systems for holding, propagating, and breeding organisms for research program, specifically corals. Additionally, the position involves the development of new experimental capabilities to maintain HRI's position as a world-leading facility.

DESCRIPTION

Functional Area 1: Research

Percent Effort: 50%

• Lead and assist in creating research proposals to maximize capabilities and impact.
  
• Develop and conduct experiments, lead experimental workflows, and oversee technicians.
  
• Guide experimental design, including temperature and lighting profiles, for optimal outcomes.
  
• Develop experimental systems for specific research needs, including novel capabilities.
  
• Create long-term plans aligning capabilities with strategic goals.
  
• Contribute to research initiatives to enhance experimental and observational techniques.
  
• Foster collaborative teams and maintain national and international research partnerships.
  
• Educate users on technological and methodological advances.
  
• Prepare and present scientific papers, reports, and presentations on research outcomes.
  
• Communicate research capabilities through media, tours, and conferences.
  

Functional Area 2: Husbandry and Life Support Systems

Percent Effort: 40%

Job Duties

• Lead and supervise the technicians in holding, propagating, and preparing marine organisms and maintaining water quality programs.
  
• Design and adapt experimental methods for life support systems and animal husbandry.
  
• Maintain high standards in husbandry and life support to support research activities.
  

Functional Area 3: Other

Percent Effort: 10%

Job Duties

• Ensure timely and effective communication of deliverables to stakeholders.
  
• Comply with workplace safety policies for a safe working environment.
  
• Advise on required research services and effectively communicate research results.
  
• Perform other duties as assigned.
  

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree
  
• Four (4) years of related experience
  
• Additional experience/education may be used as a substitute for the minimum education/experience requirement:
  
  • Master's degree and two (2) years of experience OR
    
  • Doctoral Degree
    
• Experience implementing aquarium-based experimental systems and processes
  
• Experience implementing aquarium-based experimental systems and processes.
  
• Experience culturing corals and other marine invertebrates.
  
• Experience in managing relationships with external stakeholders.
  
• Well-developed scientific writing skills.
  
• Ability to produce quality Standard Operating Protocols and task risk assessments.
  

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Postgraduate degree (M.Sc. or Ph.D.) in a field of marine science.
  
• A track record of success in developing research funding proposals and projects.
  
• Experience in administering research or technical projects.
  
• An excellent understanding of experimental design and statistical considerations.
  
• Understanding of engineering system design, in particular in relationship to life support systems for large aquaculture or marine aquaria.
  

BENEFITS (rules, policies, eligibility apply)

From our generous benefits package and professional development opportunities, to our retirement programs and our commitment to service excellence, the Island University is an engaging and rewarding place to work.

Insurance

• Medical
  
  • $0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after university contribution ($920 value).
    
  • Up to 83% of premium covered by the university:
    
    • Employee and Spouse
      
    • Employee and Children
      
    • Employee and Family coverage
      
• Dental & Vision
  
• Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account
  

On-campus wellness opportunities

Work Life Solutions:

• Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and Legal Resources
  

Tuition Benefits:

• Public Loan Forgiveness
  
• Book scholarships
  
• 100% tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year (other rules may apply).
  

Retirement

• Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)
  
• Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan
  

Time Off:

• 8+ hours of vacation paid time off every month.
  
• 8 hours of sick leave time off every month.
  
• 8 hours of paid time off for Birthday leave.
  
• 12-15 paid holidays each year.
  

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution's verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution's procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer.


To apply, visit https://tamus.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/TAMUCC_External/job/Corpus-Christi-TX/Research-Aquarist_R-076892



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