[Coral-List] Job Announcement: Coral Reef Research Technician, Shedd Aquarium

[Ross Cunning]

A research technician position is available at the John G. Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, IL (open to U.S. citizens). The technician will support the coral conservation research program led by Dr. Ross Cunning, and the specific objectives of a multi-institution National Science Foundation grant investigating the genomic basis of coral heat tolerance and evolutionary potential under climate change. The technician will provide support for all aspects of the research including field expeditions on Shedd’s research vessel, molecular genetic analysis of coral samples, data analysis and manuscript preparation, and science communication and outreach. The technician will oversee the design and construction of research equipment (Coral Bleaching Automated Stress Systems), which will also involve an educational partnership with Shedd’s Teen Learning Lab. In addition, the technician will have the opportunity to carry out an independent research project that aligns with the coral research program objectives.

Please click here to apply: https://sheddaquarium.applicantstack.com/x/detail/a23xwy52ye3j <https://sheddaquarium.applicantstack.com/x/detail/a23xwy52ye3j>
Applications will be reviewed starting February 15th, 2021.

Duties & Responsibilities

Demonstrate commitment to Shedd’s vision, mission, and values
Willingness to interact and engage with diverse internal and external audiences remotely or in-person, including Shedd’s Teen Learning Lab
Build custom electronics and Coral Bleaching Automated Stress Systems (training provided)
Participate in international scientific research expeditions on Shedd’s R/V Coral Reef II
Perform DNA extraction, amplification, and sequencing in Shedd’s molecular and microbial ecology laboratory (training provided)
Keep detailed records of all laboratory work and data generated
Use the R programming language to analyze data (training provided)
Generate scientific presentations and reports describing research outcomes
Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:

Education:

A Bachelor’s degree with a focus in biology, ecology, engineering, mathematics, or related field
Experience and Skills:

Eagerness to learn and develop new skills in diverse fields
Highly motivated, able to work independently, and be a self-starter
Desire to conduct independent research
Excellent organizational and time management skills, ability to multitask, and be deadline-oriented
Excellent writing, editing, verbal, and communication skills
Passion for science communication, education, and outreach
Ability to travel internationally (i.e. valid passport)
Preferred Skills:

Previous experience carrying out independent scientific research
Previous experience in a molecular biology laboratory (pipetting, PCR, etc.)
Previous experience working with electronics and computer programming
SCUBA certification
To Apply:

Please submit a full application, attaching a curriculum vitae and a cover letter (maximum length 1000 words) summarizing your background, your interest in this position, and your research experience and/or interests. Please specifically address your experience and/or interest in the duties/responsibilities listed above, and how this position may help advance your professional and career goals.
To formally apply, please send all the above requested information to Human Resources by clicking the ‘Apply for this Job’ button (https://sheddaquarium.applicantstack.com/x/detail/a23xwy52ye3j <https://sheddaquarium.applicantstack.com/x/detail/a23xwy52ye3j>).  If you have questions regarding the application, please email jobs at sheddaquarium.org <mailto:jobs at sheddaquarium.org>.

To discuss the specifics of this position contact Dr. Ross Cunning (rcunning at sheddaquarium.org <mailto:rcunning at sheddaquarium.org>).


Ross Cunning, Ph.D.
Research Biologist
Daniel P. Haerther Center for Conservation and Research
John G. Shedd Aquarium
p 312.692.2755
f 312.939.4312
www.sheddaquarium.org <http://www.sheddaquarium.org/>
Follow us on Twitter @SheddResearch <https://twitter.com/SheddResearch>