The Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) is among the largest marine research and education centers in the United States. Located along the glistening beaches of Gloucester, Virginia, VIMS provides research, education, and advisory services to government, citizens, students, and industry in coastal oceans and estuary science.
VIMS is transforming data into policies, students into leaders, and theories into tangible change for solutions to global problems and to restore marine life.
In addition to the core competencies and experience, the ideal candidate for the Laboratory Specialist Senior will possess effective interpersonal, and communication and follow-through skills, with the demonstrated ability to work effectively with a diverse community.
Department of Ecosystems Health invited qualified applicants to apply for the Laboratory Specialist Senior. Come join a dedicated professional research team.
The role of the Research Specialist Senior is to perform advanced to expert level responsibilities in the laboratory, field settings, or in other aspects of scientific research. This position conducts experiments under the direction of the principal investigator engages in complex scientific procedures or research for a principal investigator. The position delivers scientific services while assuming additional oversight of field and laboratory activities, as well as supervisory and administrative responsibilities when appropriate.
The position reports directly to the Supervisor (Professor), works under general supervision, and with general direction on laboratory studies, field surveys, and research procedures directed at meeting mission goals.
Responsibilities include (but not limited to):
- Writes or modifies computer programs to analyze data and generate reports.
- Performs work involving various laboratory techniques and research procedures.
- Undertakes field surveys.
- Researches literature related to various scientific projects and procedures.
- Writes segments of reports and manuscripts.
- Contributes to the coordination of grants through purchasing supplies and tracking budget expenditures.
- Troubleshoots instrument problems, and performing preventive maintenance on equipment as needed.
Required Qualifications
EDUCATION/LICENSE:
- Bachelor’s degree in marine biology, biology, biochemistry, molecular biology or a related field, or the equivalent combination of education and related experience to the position.
- Valid Driver’s license
COMPETENCIES:
- Basic knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods and approaches.
- Demonstrated understanding of Good Laboratory Practices.
- Demonstrated ability to independently carry out structured research projects using appropriate scientific procedures.
- Self starter, with the ability to follow and independently carry out standard operating procedures and guidelines.
- Strong technical and problem solving skills, with the ability to operate a variety of laboratory and field instrumentation and troubleshoot problems that arise.
- Strong communications skills, with the ability to communicate data and research findings to others.
- After consultation with principal investigator, ability to undertake computer analysis to analyze data and generate reports.
- Ability to independently conduct field surveys.
- Ability to assist undergraduate and graduate students and staff involved in associated projects.
- Must be able to work in field conditions during all seasons.
- Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
EXPERIENCE:
- Field and laboratory work in marine biology, molecular biology, ecological studies, or related fields).
- Experience with field collections and data management. • Experience conducting analysis and reporting on findings.
- Experience performing a variety of laboratory research procedures.
