Freelance Researcher – Morphotaxonomy & Digitization of Algal Flora

Job Title:

Freelance Researcher – Morphotaxonomy & Digitization of Algal Flora

Engagement Type
Freelance / Project-Based
Remote Opportunity

Job Purpose:

To conduct systematic morphotaxonomic investigation of algal flora from District Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh.
To explore, collect, identify, and document algal species from diverse freshwater habitats.
To develop a digitized taxonomic database of algal flora using modern digital tools and software.
To contribute to biodiversity documentation, taxonomy, and ecological assessment of freshwater ecosystems.

Required

Qualification:

Master’s or Ph.D. in Botany, Phycology, Plant Taxonomy, Environmental Biology, or related biological sciences.
Strong academic background in algal taxonomy, freshwater ecology, or plant systematics.
Knowledge of phytoplankton diversity, classification, and morphotaxonomy.

Tools to be Familiar:
Field Sampling & Collection:
Plankton nets, GPS for geo-tagging locations, Field microscopes, Sample preservation techniques (formalin fixation)
Laboratory & Microscopy:
Compound microscopes, Slide preparation techniques, Photomicrography
Digitization & Data Management:
DELTA (Descriptive Language for Taxonomy), Digital imaging tools, Database management software
Taxonomic References:
Standard taxonomic monographs and identification keys for algae.

Required Experience
Minimum 2+ years’ experience in phycology, taxonomy, or freshwater biodiversity studies.
Prior experience in:
Algal collection and identification, microscopic examination and morphological characterization, Preparation of permanent and temporary slides
Experience in biodiversity documentation or digital herbarium/database development is preferred.

Required Knowledge/Skills
Strong understanding of algal morphology, classification, and taxonomy.
Ability to identify algal taxa from major groups such as:
Chlorophyceae, Cyanophyceae, Bacillariophyceae, Euglenophyceae and Xanthophyceae
Knowledge of freshwater ecosystem ecology and phytoplankton dynamics.

Experience with digital taxonomy tools and taxonomic database preparation.
Strong scientific writing and documentation skills.

Job Description
Conduct    literature review of algal flora of Himachal Pradesh and related regions.
Perform    microscopic examination and morphotaxonomic identification    of algal species.
Prepare    temporary and permanent slides,    especially for diatoms.
Record    morphological characteristics including shape, size, structure, and pigmentation.
Capture    photomicrographs for taxonomic documentation.
Develop    digital taxonomic descriptions and identification keys using DELTA software.
Document:
Habitat, Locality and Distribution in India and Himachal Pradesh
Organize and structure findings into a    digital database of algal species.
Prepare a    scientifically structured research report suitable for academic publication.

Contact Info:  /