Shellfish Positions AvailableSubmit your job opportunity in paragraph form to us by clicking here. Include job details in the body of the email or as an attachment. (.doc or .pdf). The 'posted' date is when the job was posted to THIS job board, not when the position opened.Announcements will be removed after 3 months unless otherwise indicated in the post. Postdoctoral Research Associate (Virginia, USA): The Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Virginia (UVA) invites applications for a postdoctoral Research Associate position focused on modeling marine population dynamics and larval connectivity. The position is part of an NSF CAREER award project investigating oyster larval dispersal and metapopulation dynamics among restored and natural reefs in coastal Virginia. The postdoctoral research associate will work under the supervision of lead-PI Max Castorani (UVA) and in collaboration with co-investigators Will White (Oregon State University, OSU), Patricia Wiberg (UVA), and Rachel Smith (University of California, Santa Barbara). With mentorship and training from this interdisciplinary team of researchers, the research associate will: Develop oceanographic simulations and data-model comparisons to estimate and validate demographic connectivity among oyster populations; Use mathematical models to assess the effects of connectivity on oyster population growth and stability; Predict the impact of reef restoration scenarios and climate change on oyster population dynamics; Prepare and submit manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals; Present research findings at scientific conferences, workshops for restoration practitioners, and public outreach events; Assist in mentoring graduate students engaged in related research. QUALIFICATIONS: A Ph.D. in ecology, environmental sciences, fisheries biology, oceanography, applied mathematics/statistics, or a related field is required by the start date. The candidate must have demonstrated quantitative skills, especially in population or oceanographic modeling, and proficiency in scientific programming (e.g., R or Matlab). The candidate should be creative and highly motivated, with an ability to work both independently and in collaborative settings. Ideal candidates will have experience with larval transport models; age‐, stage‐, or size‐structured population models; or integral projection models. Competitive candidates will also have an interest in interfacing with restoration practitioners and marine resource managers. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, and a proven ability to publish original research in peer-reviewed journals are required. The UVA Department of Environmental Sciences is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community. Initial appointment will be for one year, with anticipated funding for at least two years, conditional upon performance. TO APPLY: Apply online at https://jobs.virginia.edu/us/en/job/R0068841/Research-Associate-in-Environmental-Sciences. Include (1) a cover letter describing your motivation, academic experience and qualifications, and interest in the advertised position; (2) curriculum vitae; and (3) contact information for three individuals who can provide professional reference letters upon request. Deadline to apply is March 1, 2025. Questions or for more information on the position, contact Dr. Max Castorani ([email protected]u). For questions regarding the application process, contact Rich Haverstrom ([email protected]) (posted 1/18/2025) Wildlife Biologist II (South Carolina, USA): The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Marine Resources Research Institute is seeking candidates for a Wildlife Biologist II in the Shellfish Research Section.The employee will be responsible for working on a diversity of research projects related to shellfish ecology, oyster restoration, living shorelines, shellfish aquaculture, and oyster reef mapping. The employee will be expected to lead field-based research sampling and monitoring efforts as well as assist with laboratory-based shellfish sample processing. The employee will be expected to lead projects focused on assessments of the current distribution and condition of natural intertidal oyster reefs, using a variety of approaches, including both on-the-ground collection methods as well as remote sensing approaches and geospatial techniques. The employee will be expected to work well as part of a team, be well organized across multiple concurrent research projects, and able to enter and manage complex datasets derived from research and monitoring projects.Minimum and Additional Requirements: A Master's degree in biology, chemistry or related technical area field; or a Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, wildlife management or related technical area and two (2) years of experience relevant to the job. Preferred Qualifications: Experience utilizing scientific methods and working in tidal creeks, estuaries, and open water nearshore environments. An ability to identify common estuarine and marine finfish and crustacean species. Familiarity with the collection, manipulation, and interpretation of spatial data using GIS tools and computer applications. A high level of proficiency across a range of standard Microsoft applications, as well as an intermediate level of proficiency in Esri GIS software, including ArcPro, ArcGIS online, and field maps are strongly preferred. Experience operating or using data from small unoccupied aerial vehicles (sUAS) strongly preferred. The ability to safely and effectively operate outboard vessels (<24ft) in nearshore waters is also strongly preferred. Ability to swim, lift heavy objects, and be comfortable working outside on a year-round basis.Questions? Please contact Dr. Peter Kingsley-Smith at [email protected]. To apply: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/sc/jobs/4786714/wildlife-biologist-ii (posted 1/13/2025) Graduate Assistant Position (Mississippi, USA): The University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast Research Laboratory is seeking candidates for a graduate assistant. Responsibilities: Two project focuses are available. The first is on the effect of climate change and wind turbine construction on the Atlantic surfclam and ocean quahog resource using a coupled fishery-population dynamics model (SEFES) that includes a future climate projection capability. Development of wind energy on the continental shelf may influence fisheries by limiting access, increasing vessel steaming costs, and limiting stock surveys. Warming of the northwest Atlantic is rapidly shifting the range of the surfclam resource and impinging the species upon territory occupied by ocean quahogs, one of the oldest marine species. The project will address management issues arising from the influence of global warming and competitive uses of the continental shelf with respect to maintaining a sustainable clam resource and fishery. The successful candidate will develop a masters or dissertation project in connection with research supported by the NSF I/UCRC science center SCEMFIS and provide the opportunity for the candidate to work directly with the fishing industry and the management community. The research is supported by SCEMFIS (NSF Science Center for Marine Fisheries) and private enterprise. The second project focus is on the resilience and restoration of oysters and oyster reefs in Mississippi Sound. Specific objectives include monitoring of oyster larval food supply in the plankton, modeling larval performance in the field, and comparison of restored and natural reefs. Project support comes from the Army Corps of Engineers and MBRACE (Mississippi Based Restore Act Center of Excellence). Qualification: BS or MS in marine science, fisheries, or related field; competency in mathematics or statistics, and numerical modeling; GRE in the upper 50th percentiles; GPA above 3.0. Estimated start date is June 1, 2025. For questions or to apply contact: Dr. Eric Powell ([email protected]). Freshwater Mussel Hatchery Manager (Maryland, USA): The main purpose of this position is to manage Maryland’s Freshwater Mussel Propagation and Restoration Program. This includes management of the mussel hatchery building, systems, property, and culture ponds (i.e., Freshwater Mussel Hatchery Complex). This is the largest mussel production facility in the state and produces multiple freshwater mussel species to meet resource management needs, including propagation of species for augmentation, reintroduction, or research projects. In addition to daily production activities, duties include development and refinement of new mussel and host fish propagation and culture techniques, and related mussel restoration research projects. Position collaborates extensively with DNR-Resource Assessment Service’s Freshwater Mussel Monitoring and Assessment Program to mutually support Susquehanna River mussel restoration and other priority freshwater mussel conservation projects statewide. Program management duties include development of project budgets, management of capital projects and critical maintenance, management of physical plant, staff supervision, grants management, and supporting an operational management connection with the collocated Joseph Manning Hatchery. Minimum qualifications: Four years of professional experience conducting research and analysis in the fields of biology, biochemistry, environmental science, natural science, natural resources management, botany, marine biology, marine ecology, physical oceanography, ichthyology, fisheries management, wildlife management or zoology and five years of experience in performing professional biological work in the field of natural resources management. Closing date: 1/23/2025. For more information and directions on how to apply visit https://www.jobapscloud.com/MD/sup/BulPreview.asp?R1=25&R2=001001&R3=0001&Viewer=Admin&Test=Y. Master's and Ph.D Positions (Alabama, USA): The Dauphin Island Sea Lab seeks motivated students to help support a project on microbial source tracking in Mobile Bay, Alabama. Potential students should be highly self-motivated and have a strong interest in microbiology, biogeochemistry, and bioinformatics. The student will matriculate through the USA Stokes School of Marine and Post-Doctoral Position (Alabama, USA): The Dauphin Island Sea Lab seeks a post-doctoral researcher to support a project on microbial source tracking for coastal ecosystem and human health. Work will assess potential health risks from water use (e.g., fishing, swimming) by defining wastewater derived microbial sources to the waterways using traditional (fecal coliform, E. coli, MSC, direct pathogen testing), biogeochemical (nutrient, stable isotope), and advanced (genomics) microbial source-tracking approaches. Community engagement and integration is inherent in the project and outreach will be a major component of the work. Responsibilities include assisting with data collection, analyses and interpretation; interacting with project partners and community members; project reporting; helping to supervise graduate and undergraduate students or interns; publishing papers from new and existing datasets; working closely with team members on related ongoing projects; developing new lines of inquiry that build on the core research studies; and disseminating data through scientific meetings and public presentations.Applicants should have expertise in sample preparation and analysis for traditional microbial source tracking using established methods (e.g., EPA, FDA) for bacterial and viral indicators (fecal indicators) and/or for direct pathogen detection (e.g., norovirus, adenovirus, toxoplasma, others). Familiarity with or interest in learning nutrient analyses and stable isotope determination and knowledge of appropriate statistical methods and software programs to support analyses is required. Knowledge of genomic methods, bioinformatics, isotope mixing models or other modeling approaches, and co-production of research products is a plus but not essential to the position. Prior experience with student mentoring and project management preferred.Applicants must hold an earned Ph.D., be fluent in written and spoken English, and be legally able to work in the USA at the time of application, without dependence on future institutional sponsorship. To apply, submit a letter of application and research interest, CV, 1-2 recently published works, and the names and contact information for at least three references by email to [email protected]. Inquiries may be sent to [email protected]. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled, with a preferred starting date in spring 2025. (posted 12/12/2024) Hatchery Technician (Maryland, USA): The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science Horn Point Laboratory Oyster Hatchery (UMCES HPLOH) in Cambridge, MD is seeking applicants for a full-time faculty research assistant. This position will involve assistance with all aspects of oyster hatchery duties for restoration and fishery activities, but primary responsibilities will be with oyster larvae and seed. Additional duties include, but are not limited to oyster broodstock conditioning, maintenance, spawning, larval rearing, spat production and settlement assessment, seed production, mass algae production, and long-line maintenance. Applicants should have the ability to multitask, as the hatchery is a fast-paced environment. Self-motivation, organization, and willingness to work productively are a must. This position will be located in Cambridge, Maryland at the Horn Point Oyster Hatchery. It is a full-time, in-person position, eligible for State of Maryland Health Benefits, retirement, tuition remission, and paid time off. Minimum Qualifications: A bachelor's degree in biology, marine biology, aquaculture or other life sciences from an accredited University is required. In place of a degree, 4 or more years of relevant experience may suffice. A combination of experience and education may be considered as well. One to two seasons of previous work or research focused on bivalves and animal husbandry. Flexibility to work holidays and weekends during the production season is required. Preferred Qualifications: Experience with oyster larval culture, settlement assessment, seed cultures, automated algal feeding systems, and database entry is strongly preferred. Attention to detail to ensure distinct genetic lines to maintain ploidy requirements. Salary: $45,000-$48,000 Physical Demands: Applicants should be able to lift 50 pounds and be able to work in a hot, humid, wet environment. Applicants must be able to climb. For more information and for how to apply visit: https://umd.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/UMCES/details/Faculty-Research-Assistant-I-HPL-Oyster-Hatchery_JR100113-1 (posted 12/3/24) Hatchery Technician (Washington State, USA): Pacific Hybreed operates hatcheries at NOAA Manchester Research Station in Port Orchard, WA and the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaiian Authority (NELHA) in Kona, HI. They are seeking a technician to fill a critical position responsible for hatchery operations and projects focused on microalgae and shellfish breeding and production. Performance of day-to-day operations including: Upkeep of filtration and water delivery systems; Transfer and sterile inoculation of multiple microalgal species from scale of small jugs to carboys and larger systems; record keeping using particle-counter; Husbandry of shellfish (larval and seed stages): water changes, feeding, size-grading, microscopy imaging and counting; Support field work operations through gear maintenance and data collection; Assistance in experimental research: measurements of survival and growth of species and organized detailed record-keeping in spreadsheets, drives, and ImageJ; Routine maintenance of chemical solutions following standard operating procedures; Basic plumbing, screen-making, and PVC projects; Maintain daily and long-term records of temperature, pH, chlorophyll. Preferred Qualifications: Experience with algae, larval culturing, or microbiology; Experience maintaining sterile cultures: proper use of flame, ethanol, bleach, and acid cleaning techniques; Basic skills and safety with tools, chemicals, plumbing, electricity, and construction; Confidence with arithmetic and Microsoft Excel; Able to lift 50lbs, repeatedly at times; Work independently and proactively; Strong communication, time management, and organizational skills; Troubleshooting and on-the-spot problem solving; Interest to learn scientific and technical info relevant to shellfish breeding and genetics. How to apply: please send your resume and an email introducing yourself to Olivia Carlson- Hatchery Manager, [email protected] (posted 11/28/24) Oyster Farmhand (Maine, USA): Deer Isle Oyster Company is seeking a hardworking, reliable, and enthusiastic farmhand to join their team for the upcoming season. You will report directly to the Farm Manager. This position involves a variety of hands-on tasks across the oyster and seaweed farm, and you'll have the opportunity to work outdoors, learn about aquaculture practices, and contribute to a growing, innovative business. Key Responsibilities: Oyster Farming: Harvest, sort, tumble, clean, bag, and prepare oysters for market; assist with oyster delivery, shucking, sales, and raw bar events; Seaweed & Kelp Farming: Harvest and grade dulse; Maintenance: Repair farm gear, maintain boats and equipment, and assist with the upkeep of the farm's retail space and facilities; Sustainability & Data Collection: Support plastic-free gear building and collect data for viability assessment; Community Engagement & Social Media: Assist with social media, marketing, and customer interactions at events and farm activities. Requirements: Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation (personal vehicle required); Comfortable working on the water and in all weather conditions; Ability to swim and do tedious, highly physical tasks in an outdoor setting; Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs over slippery and uneven surfaces; Willing to work evenings and weekends, especially for weekly shucking events; Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn; Interest in aquaculture, sustainability, and customer service is essential; Ability to adapt to changing schedules and tasks in a fast-paced environment. Compensation & Benefits: Full-time seasonal hourly wage plus tips from raw bar and special events; Paid lunch breaks; Opportunity to learn about aquaculture and sustainable farming practices; Rustic seasonal housing may be available for the right person (note: no electricity, outdoor shower). How to Apply: Please send a brief cover letter, resume, and three references to: [email protected] (posted 11/22/2024) Farm Manager (Maine, USA): Deer Isle Oyster Company is seeking a motivated, reliable, and energetic Oyster Farm Manager to oversee day-to-day farming operations. This leadership role entails stock management, sorting, culling, and grading oysters, as well as managing biofouling and landing market-sized product. The manager will lead a farm crew of 1-2 individuals and is expected to exhibit excellent communication, safety awareness, strong prioritization skills, and compassionate leadership. They value individuals who can adapt and problem-solve effectively in a fast-paced environment. The position entails 5-day, 40-hour workweeks from March through November/December, with potential for year-round employment based on performance. Key Responsibilities: Lead a 1-2 person farm crew with a focus on safety and productivity; Communicate effectively with the Events Coordinator, Chief Operations Officer and Owner about farm harvest, operations and needs; Operate processing equipment on the oyster float, including solar powered tumbler and pumps; Plan daily schedules around farm accessibility and seasonal needs; Raise and lower farm infrastructure in spring and fall; Deploy and measure-out oyster seed; Maintain appropriate stocking densities of oyster inventory on the farm; Adhere to state Vibrio regulations for safe oyster handling; Harvest market-ready oysters to meet company quality specifications; Prevent and manage biofouling on gear, equipment, and oysters; Conduct record-keeping for quality control, inventory, and farm maintenance; Utilize Google Suite and other applications for reporting, logging, and maintenance records; Repair, maintain, and deploy gear as necessary; Record data for plastic-free aquaculture initiatives as required; Collaborate with the owner and COO to improve farm efficiency and evaluate new technologies; Manage farm supplies and vessel inventory. Qualifications: Minimum 2 years of experience working with and handling small boats (oyster farming experience preferred); Valid driver's license; Strong, clear communication skills; Ability to work independently and as part of a team; Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions from March to December; Physical capacity to work on your feet on the water, and lift/push/pull up to 50 lbs; Willingness to live or relocate within a reasonable commuting distance to the farm; Experience steering and safely maneuvering 20-25’ boats with outboards (helm and tiller steering); Competency in rowing; Familiarity with operating and maintaining winches, haulers, and pumps.Preferred Skills and Traits: Highly organized and adaptable to new challenges; Troubleshooting skills and the ability to address issues quickly; Enthusiastic about outdoor work environments, sustainability, aquaculture, and small business; Capable of working both independently and collaboratively. Compensation and Perks: Competitive salary, dependent on experience; Guaranteed 5-day, 40-hour workweek; Paid lunch breaks; Weekends off. How to Apply: Please send a cover letter, resume, and three references to: [email protected] (posted 11/22/2024). PhD and Post-doc Oyster Hatchery positions (Hong Kong): The Hong Kong Oyster Hatchery and Innovation Research Unit (HKO_HIRU) of HKU (www.hkuoyster.com) is seeking to fill PhD and Post positions to work on SNP discovery and genomics selection in Hong Kong oysters. Specifically, in the following opportunities: PhD position - work on SNP discovery and genomic selection for high-salinity and disease resilient Hong Kong oysters based at The University of Hong Kong (HKU; www.hku.hk): General Qualifications: undergraduate or master’s degree students with any science related subjects with relevant experience and interest with honors degree or degree with outstanding academic records (e.g. GPA >3.6/4 in UG degree even if apply with master degree). Scholarship is HK$19,000per month. For further details about scholarships and PhD study details of HKU’s, please visit the web page. Research Direction: SNP-driven genomic selection with digital breeding approach using variety of digital phenotypic data (images) and Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) markers to correlate with commercial traits to evaluate breeding values of wild and hatchery populations using big data and machine learning tools. There are established collaborations with relevant experts to provide the student adequate training to kick start this impactful and innovative project. Post doc for genomic breeding project: This position is available immediately. The primary goal of this position is to develop tools and resources for genome-based breeding of the Hong Kong oyster, a major aquaculture species in China – which is accounting almost ¼ of global production. There is low-density SNP array for genotyping. The next phase of research will focus on the application of SNP genotyping platform in genomic selection for high salinity tolerance and disease resilient. The position is expected to participate in developing, testing and implementing genomic selection for improving high salt tolerance of Hong Kong oyster. This post doc, in close collaboration with PhD student and various collaborators may include hatchery production and maintenance of experimental oysters, conducting challenge experiments, sampling and SNP array genotyping, analysis of genotype and phenotype data, development of prediction models for genomic selection, communication with growers and the oyster community around the world, and writing manuscripts for publication. Qualifications: talented, enthusiastic, and hardworking PhD degree holder in Aquaculture or Marine Biology or Molecular Ecology or related field with a relevant research experience with a proven track record. Experience in shellfish SNP and genomic selection is highly preferrable. Salary ranges from HK$ 28,000 to 30,000 per month (1 US$ = 7.8 HK$). For this salary range, the income tax is negligible in Hong Kong. Exact salary and period are negotiable. How to apply to either position: Please send your query or CV to Rajan via Email: [email protected] or WhatsApp: 852-95757923 or WeChat: wxid_s610q4iljvdu22. If interested and eligible, apply as soon as possible. Position will remain open until a suitable candidate is identified (posted 11/11/2024). Hatchery Technician (Virginia, USA): Oyster Seed Holdings (OSH) is seeking applicants for a full-time hatchery team |