Research Technician III, Duke University Marine Lab, Beaufort

Job Title

Research Technician III (Temporary, 1-Year Appointment)

Job Code: 0691 | FLSA:
Non-Exempt | Job Level: 10 | Job Family: 05

Work Location:

Duke University Marine Lab, Beaufort, NC 28516

Projected

Start Date:

July 2026

At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As a Research Technician III in the Silliman Lab, you will join a collaborative research and training environment that values inclusivity, equity, and excellence in science. You will help build use‑inspired, place‑based conservation solutions that benefit both people and nature across coastal ecosystems — salt marshes, seagrasses, oyster reefs, coastal forests, and living shorelines.

The Silliman Lab operates in partnership with Duke RESTORE and the Duke Wetland and Coast Center, integrating field experiments, observational studies, and synthesis approaches to generate predictive understanding across systems and scales, with a strong emphasis on conservation and ecosystem restoration.

• Coordinate and support logistics for seagrass seed production, storage, and out‑planting (scheduling, procurement, site support).
• Set up and monitor field experiments evaluating seagrass seed production and planting techniques.
• Collect data in coastal systems (including seagrass beds, salt marshes, and oyster reefs) using established protocols.
• Collect, process, and document samples; maintain accurate records of procedures, data, and results.
• Train to operate and drive a skiff for lab research and Duke RESTORE activities.

• Maintain and monitor seagrass seed storage systems and associated aquaculture infrastructure.
• Set up and support laboratory experiments and sample‑processing workflows.
• Prepare summaries of field and lab activities; deliver regular updates and contribute to reports.
• Perform data entry and quality control; assist with basic analyses and visualizations for publications and reports.
• Support lab members with field and lab components of their projects; provide coordination support to students or junior personnel when needed.
• Participate in Duke classes, meetings, and training sessions that build skills relevant to the role.
• Provide regular communication: submit a monthly report to Dr. Silliman and meet weekly.

• Maintain lab spaces to support safe, compliant, and organized work (cleanliness, organization, safety protocols).
• Track inventories of supplies and equipment; coordinate ordering, receiving, and basic budget tracking.
• Manage shared resources (equipment scheduling; coordinate maintenance and repairs).
• Coordinate use and upkeep of research vehicles, boats, and trailers (inspections, servicing, cleaning).
• Support project administration (purchasing, reimbursements, permits, and reporting requirements).
• Assist with onboarding and coordination of students, volunteers, interns, and visiting researchers.
• Maintain organized records of lab activities, protocols, and data workflows.
• Participate in lab meetings, training, and professional development activities.

Bachelor's degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology, ecology, marine science, environmental science, or a related field.

Valid driver's license and ability to travel to field sites.

Two (2) years of relevant research experience (a related master's degree may substitute 1:1 for required experience).

• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities across field, laboratory, and administrative settings.
• Ability to work independently, troubleshoot operational challenges, and maintain attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Familiarity with basic field and laboratory procedures and ability to follow established protocols.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment and coordinate across diverse teams.
• Ability to work in variable outdoor conditions for extended periods; ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and move between buildings.
• Ability to drive small research…