NRRI Aquatic Ecologist; Assistant Research Scientist​/Researcher

NRRI Aquatic Ecologist (Assistant research scientist / Researcher
3) – 8353EN – $57,699.20 – $68,814.72

The NRRI Lake and Stream Ecology Laboratory is hiring an Aquatic Ecologist who has experience designing and leading sampling campaigns on diverse aquatic ecosystems, managing field instrumentation and sensor networks, and managing data quality for diverse environmental data streams. This position will be responsible for leading field operations, including field safety, project oversight, and staff supervision and training. The role collaborates closely with the Analytical Chemistry Laboratory Manager to oversee the daily operations of the Central Analytical Laboratory (CAL), a state‑certified water‑quality laboratory that specializes in low‑level detection of water quality parameters in the Laurentian Great Lakes and nutrient‑poor lakes and streams in the Upper Midwest.

In addition, the Aquatic Ecologist will assist with research projects studying the interaction of climate and land‑use change on lake and stream health and biogeochemical cycling, drivers of cyanobacterial bloom formation and toxicity in lakes, and ecosystem structure and functioning in the Laurentian Great Lakes and inland aquatic ecosystems.

The application review will begin on 5/25/2026.

This position is not eligible for H‑1B or Green Card sponsorship, nor does it offer a STEM OPT training program. In‑person work environment.

• Field operations & logistics (30%):
  Lead field operations and logistics, design and coordinate field sampling campaigns, deploy and maintain field instrumentation and sensor networks, maintain field equipment, train lab personnel and collaborators in field procedures, and lead field safety planning and training.
• Sample collection & field observations (20%):
  Perform environmental field work and collection of environmental samples and data from diverse aquatic ecosystems (streams, lakes, wetlands, Laurentian Great Lakes), develop detailed sampling SOPs, create field data sheets and chain‑of‑custody, manage field data and high‑frequency sensor data, troubleshoot equipment, coordinate sample delivery to laboratories, and assist with sample processing.
• Project oversight & administration (20%):
  Assist with project oversight and administration, including developing proposals and contracts, tracking and coordinating project deliverables, developing project budgets, invoicing funders, and securing sampling permits.
• Project reporting & data deliverables (15%):
  Assist with statistical analysis and data visualization, project report completion, scientific manuscript development, and presentation of findings at regional and international conferences.
• Water quality analyses (15%):
  Process water chemistry samples according to state‑certified SOPs, follow strict standard operating procedures and quality assurance protocols, troubleshoot analytical chemistry performance issues, track quality assurance metrics to ensure compliance with state and federal guidelines, and schedule analyses to ensure holding times are met.

• Lab procedures may call for use of hazardous chemicals; successful applicants must understand basic PPE requirements for acids, bases, and flammable liquids. Some procedures require work with biohazard materials and require additional safety training.
• Field work may involve hiking in rough/remote terrain and/or adverse weather conditions, lifting up to 40 lbs., carrying up to 25 lbs.

• BS/BA in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• 4 years related work experience, or a combination of education and work experience equal to 8 years.
• Demonstrated experience in collection and analysis of water samples.
• Demonstrated computer skills, including data entry, spreadsheet management, and report writing.
• Demonstrated experience communicating and working closely with team members in lab and field settings.
• Ability to work independently with minimal guidance from supervisor or principal investigator.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to pass a required background check and motor vehicle moving violations…