Staff Biologist – IC2R3

Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration (IC2R3), Summerland Key, Florida

This position’s primary function is to actively support and participate in Mote’s coral reef restoration and research activities, assist with the husbandry and maintenance of in-situ (offshore) and ex-situ (land-based) coral nurseries, and assist with coral reef restoration fieldwork including outplanting, monitoring, and research activities.

Primary Duties:

• Extensive in-situ (offshore) and ex-situ (land-based) nursery maintenance and coral husbandry.
• Outplant nursery-grown corals to various reef restoration sites.
• Conduct routine monitoring and photo-documentation of outplanted corals and restoration sites.
• Construct and maintain nursery structures, lab, and field equipment.
• Assist with field activities associated with Mote-led and Mote supported research projects.
• Assist with data collection, data entry, and report writing.
• Additional duties will include assisting with various tasks related to the daily operation of a full-service marine laboratory, assist with field and lab support to visiting scientists, and assist with outreach and education activities as needed including interviews, tours, and workshops.

Experience Required

Minimum Qualifications or Requirements 

• B.S. degree in the marine or biological sciences form an accredited college or university. 
• SCUBA certified (Rescue Diver certification required; divemaster or higher preferred). 
• Meet and maintain standards for AAUS Scientific Diver rating, including medical requirements. 
• Valid Florida driver’s license. 
• Ability to be an adaptable and collegial member of the team, self-motivated, and complete assigned tasks in a timely manner. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 
• Prior experience working in tropical marine ecosystems and identification of Caribbean corals. 
• Ability to lift heavy objects or equipment up to 50lbs occasionally. 
• Working knowledge of basic computer software (Windows, Word, Excel) required. 
• Ability to adapt to a changing environment, work independently on certain tasks with minimal direct supervision, and good practical problem-solving abilities. 
• Normal hours are 8am – 5pm; however, weekend, evening, and holiday hours will be required to support Mote’s Coral Reef Restoration & Research mission. Preferred Qualifications, Skills, and Abilities 
• Extensive prior scientific diving experience strongly preferred 
• Prior experience with recirculating and flow-through seawater systems preferred 
• Prior coral nursery experience preferred 
• Ability and experience with operating small vessels up to 28’ LOA preferred (USCG Captain’s license strongly preferred) 
• Prior working experience with navigating coastal waters throughout the Florida Keys preferred. 
• Experience and working familiarity with common data management and statistical analysis software preferred (e.g., MatLab, SPSS, SAS, R)