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eDNA Post-Doctoral Associate
OceanX
Earth
USD 90k-100k / year
Posted on Jul 18, 2025
eDNA Post-Doctoral Associate
OceanX
About OceanX:
OceanX is a nonprofit working to unlock the ocean’s sustainable potential. Through a dual focus on science and education, we’re building a new paradigm where humanity and the ocean mutually thrive. Our approach is fueled by exploration, leveraging advanced research, multimedia educational programs, cross-sector partnerships, and advanced technology to help transform how people understand and value the ocean. Our work strives to fortify biodiversity and increase the sustainable use of ocean resources to help ensure the ocean remains a foundation for human wellbeing and potential. OceanX is a nonprofit operating program of Dalio Philanthropies.
For more information, visit www.oceanx.org and follow OceanX on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, X, and LinkedIn.
Position Summary:
OceanX is seeking a post-doctoral associate in the field of marine eDNA and meta genomics. The position involves work in a laboratory at sea on the research vessel OceanXplorer. The position would require performing nucleic acid sequencing and genome assembly from samples (water, soil, organisms, etc.) collected at sea during international expeditions. When not working on the vessel, the position would entail data analysis at home, in a New York City office or at a collaborating laboratory, domestically or abroad. Experience in marine eDNA purification and analysis, genome assembly and analysis are required. Ability to work independently and with international scientists aboard a research vessel is a must. The position comes with unique access to a range of exploration opportunities aboard an advanced research vessel including submersibles, ROVs, CTDs and a SCUBA diving platform. It is expected that the scientist would develop, execute and publish their scientific work in leading, peer-reviewed scientific journals.
OceanX is an entrepreneurial environment which values team players who can manage priorities and workstreams simultaneously. To thrive and succeed within our unique culture and work environment, you must demonstrate humility, innate curiosity, and openness to new ideas/approaches. You also must be hard working, composed and goal oriented. Everyone working with OceanX is expected to be honest, open to giving and receiving objective feedback, constantly striving for self-improvement, and committed to the pursuit of excellence.
Position Type:
- This is a two-year contract position, with the possibility of renewal after the two-year term
- While the role will work closely with the OceanX team in support of OceanX initiatives, it will be formally employed and managed by a third-party staffing partner
Location:
- Note: This position requires spending approximately 50% of working time aboard the vessel
- When not on the ship, responsibilities may be carried out remotely, from our New York City office, or at a collaborating laboratory, either in the U.S. or internationally
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Develop scientific projects within the field of environmental DNA in the marine environment in collaboration with the OceanX Science Program Director and Vice-Chair/Chief Science Officer
- Collect and analyze samples and data at-sea under scope of mission and projects as-developed with Science Program Director
- Utilize laboratory facilities and equipment on board the OceanXplorer, maintain an inventory of consumables required and/or used to execute project objectives
- Collaborate on board OceanXplorer with guest scientific teams and ship-based teams (ROV, Sub, Science) as-directed by the Science Program Officer to achieve project sampling goals and data requirements
- Develop, execute, and publish studies in leading peer-reviewed scientific journals in collaboration with the Science Program Director and Vice-Chair/Chief Science Officer
Qualifications:
- Professional Experience:
- PhD in molecular biology and genomics
- Ability to work and thrive in an entrepreneurial, rapidly evolving environment, with significant ambiguity
- Ability to communicate effectively in written and oral communications
- Strong project management capabilities
- Proven track record of taking initiative, with the ability to multi-task, collaborate with various team members, and conduct oneself in a highly professional manner when working with both internal and external colleagues.
- Personal Attributes:
- Determined, resourceful and practical. An independent, self-starter, with a “roll up your sleeves” attitude and strong work ethic
- Agility, with a track record of getting things done
- Organized, reliable, and meticulous
- Ability to prioritize, meet tight deadlines, anticipate needs, and maintain high quality work
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal)
- Comfortable with ambiguity
- Maintains high standards
- Highly collaborative
- General curiosity and passion for the Ocean
- Other Requirements:
- Must be willing and able to live and work aboard the OceanXplorer for prolonged deployments at sea
Compensation:
Compensation for this role is in the range of USD $90,000–$100,000.