EDNA Post-Doctoral Associate

About OceanX

Ocean

X is a nonprofit working to unlock the ocean's sustainable potential. Through a dual focus on science and education, we're building a new paradigm where humanity and the ocean mutually thrive. Our approach is fueled by exploration, leveraging advanced research, multimedia educational programs, cross-sector partnerships, and advanced technology to help transform how people understand and value the ocean. Our work strives to fortify biodiversity and increase the sustainable use of ocean resources to help ensure the ocean remains a foundation for human wellbeing and potential.

Ocean

X is a nonprofit operating program of Dalio Philanthropies.

Ocean

X is seeking a post-doctoral associate in the field of marine eDNA and meta genomics. The position involves work in a laboratory at sea on the research vessel Ocean Xplorer. The position would require performing nucleic acid sequencing and genome assembly from samples (water, soil, organisms, etc.) collected at sea during international expeditions. When not working on the vessel, the position would entail data analysis at home, in a New York City office or at a collaborating laboratory, domestically or abroad.

Experience in marine eDNA purification and analysis, genome assembly and analysis are required. Ability to work independently and with international scientists aboard a research vessel is a must. The position comes with unique access to a range of exploration opportunities aboard an advanced research vessel including submersibles, ROVs, CTDs and a SCUBA diving platform. It is expected that the scientist would develop, execute and publish their scientific work in leading, peer-reviewed scientific journals.

• Develop scientific projects within the field of environmental DNA in the marine environment in collaboration with the Ocean
  
  X Science Program Director and Vice-Chair/Chief Science Officer
• Collect and analyze samples and data at-sea under scope of mission and projects as-developed with Science Program Director
• Utilize laboratory facilities and equipment on board the Ocean Xplorer, maintain an inventory of consumables required and/or used to execute project objectives
• Collaborate on board Ocean Xplorer with guest scientific teams and ship-based teams (ROV, Sub, Science) as-directed by the Science Program Officer to achieve project sampling goals and data requirements
• Develop, execute, and publish studies in leading peer-reviewed scientific journals in collaboration with the Science Program Director and Vice-Chair/Chief Science Officer

• Professional Experience
• PhD in molecular biology and genomics
• Ability to work and thrive in an entrepreneurial, rapidly evolving environment, with significant ambiguity
• Ability to communicate effectively in written and oral communications
• Strong project management capabilities
• Proven track record of taking initiative, with the ability to multi-task, collaborate with various team members, and conduct oneself in a highly professional manner when working with both internal and external colleagues

• Personal Attributes
• Determined, resourceful and practical. An independent, self-starter, with a "roll up your sleeves" attitude and strong work ethic
• Agility, with a track record of getting things done
• Organized, reliable, and meticulous
• Ability to prioritize, meet tight deadlines, anticipate needs, and maintain high quality work
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal)
• Comfortable with ambiguity
• Maintains high standards
• Highly collaborative
• General curiosity and passion for the Ocean

• Other Requirements
• Must be willing and able to live and work aboard the Ocean Xplorer for prolonged deployments at sea

Compensation for this role is in the range of USD $90,000–$100,000.

• Note:
  
  This position requires spending approximately 50% of working time aboard the vessel
• When not on the ship, responsibilities may be carried out remotely, from our New York City office, or at a collaborating laboratory, either in the U.S. or internationally

• This is a two-year contract position, with the possibility of renewal after the two-year term
• While the role will work closely with the Ocean
  
  X team in support of Ocean
  
  X initiatives, it will be formally employed and managed by a third-party staffing partner
• Please note that we do not provide immigration sponsorship for this position