Postdoctoral Researcher

Postdoctoral Researcher – Oyster Breeding & Applied Aquaculture Research

Position Type: Full-Time

This position is with PMAR – Palacios Marine Agricultural Research, Inc., an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing sustainable shellfish aquaculture and restoring oyster populations along the Texas coast. Our company, Quincy Management, provides HR support to PMAR and is managing this recruitment process on their behalf.

Palacios Marine Agricultural Research is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to support the development and advancement of sustainable oyster aquaculture through selective breeding, hatchery operations, and applied research. This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about using science to solve real-world challenges in marine agriculture and help strengthen the future of oyster production and coastal restoration.

The successful candidate will work closely with a multidisciplinary team to evaluate breeding strategies, optimize hatchery and nursery practices, and identify new opportunities to improve oyster growth, survival, disease resistance, and overall production efficiency. This position combines laboratory, hatchery, and field work, with an emphasis on turning research into practical applications.

• Assist in the design and implementation of selective breeding programs for oysters and other shellfish species.
• Conduct applied research to evaluate oyster performance, genetics, growth rates, and environmental factors affecting production.
• Analyze biological and environmental data to identify opportunities for improving hatchery and aquaculture operations.
• Collaborate with hatchery staff to optimize spawning, larval culture, settlement, and nursery protocols.
• Support field and laboratory experiments related to oyster health, water quality, and coastal ecosystem dynamics.
• Contribute to the development of innovative strategies that enhance oyster restoration and sustainable marine agriculture.
• Maintain accurate research records, collect and manage datasets, and prepare technical summaries and internal reports.
• Assist with grant‑funded projects and collaborate with internal and external research partners as needed.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and institutional regulations while maintaining research facilities and equipment.

• Ph.D. in Marine Science, Aquaculture, Marine Biology, Environmental Science, Biology, Fisheries Science, or a closely related field.
• Strong understanding of marine or coastal ecosystems and shellfish or aquaculture production systems.
• Experience designing and conducting biological or environmental research.
• Experience with statistical analysis and data management using tools such as R, Python, or similar software.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a diverse team.
• Excellent organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.

• Experience with oyster hatchery operations, shellfish breeding programs, or larval culture techniques.
• Knowledge of genetics, selective breeding, or population biology as applied to aquaculture.
• Familiarity with Gulf Coast ecosystems or similar coastal environments.
• Experience with field sampling, water quality monitoring, or aquaculture production systems.
• Background in applied research that supports commercial aquaculture, conservation, or marine resource management.

• Combination of laboratory, hatchery, office, and outdoor fieldwork in coastal environments.
• Regular work around water, boats, aquaculture equipment, and shellfish production systems.
• Occasional work outside standard business hours during spawning events, field sampling, or other operational needs.