Research Scientist Associate

Job Posting Title

Research Scientist Associate I

College of Natural Sciences

All Applicants

40

Exempt

Apr 30, 2026

Expected to Continue Until Aug 31, 2027

MARINE SCIENCE INSTITUTE, PORT ARANSAS, TEXAS

The purpose of this role is to assist in the research of the Beaufort Sea and conduct field work along the Arctic coast, as well as local estuarine systems of South Texas.

• Assist with logistics associated with field sampling and sample collection following SOPs in South Texas estuarine systems and the Beaufort Sea (Utqiagvik, Deadhorse, Kaktovik)
• Operate small boats, snow machines, and ice drills for sample collection.
• Assist with biota sorting and identification in the lab (using compound and dissecting scopes).
• Conduct routine laboratory analyses for constituents including dissolved inorganic nutrients (ammonium, nitrate, phosphate), stable C and N isotopic composition, dissolved and particulate organic matter, sediment grain size and chlorophyll.
• Calculate stoichiometric ratios.
• Maintain records of supply and travel purchases.
• Produce written quarterly and annual reports as required by sponsors.
• Maintain field logs for instruments and sensors and accurate records and backups of data.
• Mentor teachers and students selected for research experiences.
• Participate in public education and outreach activities.

• B.S. degree with major coursework in marine/environmental science plus two years of related experience.
• Ability to use specialized research instrumentation/equipment as required by the project.
• Background in benthic studies that includes work in seagrass, marsh, and open bay bottoms in estuarine and coastal systems.
• Knowledge of the application of isotopic and stoichiometric signatures in ecology.

• M.S. degree with major coursework in marine/environmental science.
• Experience working in estuarine environments in both low and high latitude systems (all seasons) on small boats and research vessels.
• Ability to conduct remote field work for extended periods ranging from 3‑6 weeks.
• Experience with short- and long-term deployment of field instrumentation (e.g., CTDs, SeaFETS, LI-COR light meters, Lowell tilt current meters; familiarity with in situ sensors and associated software).
• Positive personality and ability to work in groups.
• Clear evidence of professional writing and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Word, R, Excel, and data acquisition programs.

This job requires a class “C” operator’s driver’s license. The applicant must provide a current three‑year driving record from the current state of residence. If not currently a Texas resident, a Texas driver’s license must be obtained within 30 days of becoming a Texas resident.

$40,000+ depending on qualifications.

• May work around chemicals.
• May work around standard laboratory conditions.
• May work around standard office conditions.
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at workstation.
• Use of manual dexterity.

• Resume/CV
• 3 work references with contact information (at least one from a supervisor)
• Letter of interest

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

The University of Texas at Austin will not discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. Employees with access to compensation information will only disclose pay under specific circumstances as required by law.