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Research Assistant II (MC&G)
Woods Hole, Falmouth, MA, USA
USD 24.53-31.54 / hour
Posted on Aug 20, 2026
Job Summary
Job Description
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for a Research Assistant (RA) II to join the Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry Department. This is a temporary, full-time, non-exempt position and is eligible for limited benefits.
The RA will be part of a collaborative team in the Hansel Laboratory investigating the role of chemically-modified substrates in coral restoration and ecosystem biodiversity. The primary role for the RA will be maintaining and monitoring an array of recirculating and flow through aquaria and high throughput single coral fragment reactors in a newly renovated experimental facility on the WHOI campus, including troubleshooting equipment issues as they arise. Therefore, previous experience with aquaria systems is highly preferred. Secondary tasks will include assisting in experiments growing reef-building corals on engineered materials, measuring nutrient and element concentrations in waters, digesting and analyzing coral tissues, and analyzing data. The RA may be asked to assist with research in the field at coastal field stations and/or at sea, thus SCUBA diving certification and American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS) training is desirable but not required.
This is a temporary one-year position, with the potential for extending the position dependent on available funds. The final level of the position will be determined commensurate with the selected candidate’s level of education and experience.
Essential Functions
Coral husbandry
Aquaria maintenance
Weekly aquaria water quality testing and adjustments
Coral health assessments via pulse amplitude modulated (PAM) fluorometry
Track coral growth over time via buoyant weight method
Coral tissue extractions for secondary analysis
Coral tissue and skeleton analysis via microscopy, spectroscopy, and DNA analysis
Data processing using spreadsheets and statistical analysis
Writing up methods and results
Communicating with team
Assisting and training students and other staff with experiments
Non-essential Functions
As deemed necessary by supervisor. RA must be willing to take on a variety of tasks regardless of levels, including lab cleaning and management. The RA may also be asked to take part in outreach and educational activities as needed.
Required Education and Experience
Undergraduate degree in biology, biogeochemistry, or ocean science preferred. Relevant work experience in coral research and husbandry is required.
Experience working with corals and/or benthic organisms
Experience working and maintaining aquaria systems
Ability to work independently
Ability to learn new techniques
Ability to troubleshoot instrumentation (aquaria, sensors)
Ability to work professionally with people from different disciplines
Experience with data analysis, including data synthesis in spreadsheets and statistical analysis
Ability to communicate effectively and educate new users
Physical/Special Requirements
Prior fieldwork experience in coral husbandry, either in laboratory or reef restoration settings
Ability to stand or bend for extended periods during aquaria work
Willingness to conduct occasional aquaria checks outside standard business hours including weekends as deemed necessary
SCUBA certified and/or willing to be trained
Additional Job Requirements
Salary Range: $24.53/hour - $31.54/hour
The salary range provided for this position reflects the expected minimum and maximum base pay for new hires. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as internal equity and market conditions. In addition to base salary, eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package.
WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.
EEO Statement
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.