Marine Biologist Jobs
Marine biologists study ocean life and aquatic ecosystems. At aquariums, they lead research programs, oversee animal health, design conservation initiatives, and help translate science into public education. If you want to do meaningful research while also connecting with the public, an aquarium-based marine biology role offers both.
We list marine biologist positions from public aquariums, marine science centers, conservation nonprofits, and research institutions. New openings are added regularly, so bookmark this page or check back often.
Marine Biology Roles at Aquariums
Aquariums and marine science centers hire marine biologists across a wide range of functions:
- Research scientists: Designing and conducting studies on animal behavior, reproduction, genetics, and ecology. Many aquariums run peer-reviewed research programs that contribute directly to conservation.
- Conservation program coordinators: Managing field projects for species recovery, habitat restoration, coral propagation, and community science. These roles often split time between the aquarium and the field.
- Animal care specialists: Applying biological expertise to husbandry, nutrition planning, and veterinary support. This is where marine biology and aquarist work overlap most directly.
- Exhibit and collection managers: Planning species acquisitions, managing living collections, and advising on exhibit design based on ecological and behavioral knowledge.
- Education and outreach staff: Translating research findings into public programs, publications, school curricula, and media content. If this appeals to you, also check out our aquarium educator jobs.
Positions range from entry-level research assistants and lab technicians to senior roles like Director of Research, Chief Scientist, or VP of Conservation. Many marine biology roles at aquariums involve a mix of lab work, fieldwork, and public engagement, which is part of what makes them different from purely academic positions.
How to Get Into Marine Biology at an Aquarium
The typical path starts with a bachelor's degree in marine biology, biology, ecology, or a related science, followed by one or more aquarium internships or research assistantships. For senior or principal investigator roles, a master's or PhD is usually expected. But for many positions, including field biologists, conservation coordinators, and lab technicians, practical experience and specialized skills matter as much as degree level.
Skills that consistently show up in job postings include scientific diving certification, data analysis (R, Python), GIS, scientific writing, and species identification. If you can combine research credentials with strong communication skills and a willingness to engage the public, you'll stand out.
Browse our current listings below, or use the search to find positions in your area. New opportunities are added regularly, so check back often or join our newsletter to get notified of new postings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Marine Biologist Jobs
What qualifications do I need for a marine biologist job at an aquarium?
Most positions require at least a bachelor's degree in marine biology, biology, ecology, or a related science. Research and senior roles typically require a master's or PhD. Beyond the degree, hiring managers look for field experience, scientific diving certification, data analysis skills (R, Python, or GIS), published research, and a track record of working in team-based environments. Internship experience at an aquarium or marine lab is a major advantage.
Can I get a marine biologist job at an aquarium without a PhD?
Yes. Many aquarium roles, including research assistants, lab technicians, field biologists, and conservation coordinators, require only a bachelor's or master's degree. A PhD is primarily needed for principal investigator or senior scientist positions. For a lot of roles, practical skills like diving, data analysis, or GIS experience will matter more than an additional degree.
What's the difference between a marine biologist and an aquarist?
Marine biologists focus on research, conservation, and the study of aquatic ecosystems and animal behavior. Aquarists focus on the hands-on daily care of animals in a captive setting: feeding, water quality, exhibit maintenance, and husbandry. At aquariums the two roles collaborate closely, and some professionals move between them over the course of their careers. If you're more drawn to the animal care side, check out our aquarist jobs page.
Do marine biologists at aquariums do fieldwork?
Many do, yes. Conservation coordinators, field biologists, and research scientists often split their time between the aquarium and field sites. Fieldwork can include coral reef monitoring, sea turtle nesting surveys, fish population studies, habitat restoration, and community science programs. The balance between lab and field depends on the institution and the specific role.
What marine biology specializations are most in demand at aquariums?
Aquariums are consistently hiring for expertise in coral biology and propagation, elasmobranch (shark and ray) research, marine mammal science, aquatic animal health and veterinary support, and conservation genetics. Water quality and life support system knowledge is also valuable. Specializations tied to species that aquariums actively exhibit or breed will always be in higher demand.
How competitive are marine biologist jobs at aquariums?
Very competitive, especially at well-known institutions. Research and senior science positions may attract dozens of qualified applicants, many with advanced degrees and published work. Your best advantages are relevant internship experience, strong references from within the aquarium or marine science community, specialized skills that match the role, and flexibility on location. Being willing to start in a junior or adjacent role and work your way up is a common and effective strategy.
