NOAA Research Assistant - AWRI (Adjunct Salaried)

Grand Valley State University • Muskegon, MI

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Annis Water Resources Institute (AWRI) and Grand Valley State University are seeking a research scientist to provide technical assistance on projects primarily focused on the ecology of Lake Michigan. The successful candidate would collaborate closely with NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Lab (GLERL) staff at their Lake Michigan Field Station. AWRI is a world-class research facility situated on Muskegon Lake in Muskegon, MI, on the shores of Lake Michigan. The institute houses a dozen faculty, numerous research staff, and a robust graduate program. Located 30 miles from the main Grand Valley State University campus, AWRI maintains state-of-the-art analytical and molecular laboratories, a mesocosm facility, and two research vessels.

Requirements

• B.S. in aquatic ecology, limnology, biology, or a related field
• General lab skills to maintain safe and efficient lab operations
• Comfort with spreadsheets and general data management
• Flexibility and willingness to learn new skills
• Must have the physical stamina to work long hours and/or more than 5 days per week.
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must not require sponsorship now or in the future.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with large and small research vessels
• Past research experience in aquatic ecology
• Plankton and benthic invertebrate identification skills
• Demonstrated success working in a collaborative setting

Responsibilities

• Support NOAA GLERL's long-term observations research program on Lake Michigan, with contributions to additional projects as needed
• Conduct vessel-based and shore-based fieldwork during the ice-free season, including occasional nighttime sampling and multi-day trips
• Collect biological and chemical samples in the field across a range of weather conditions
• Analyze field samples in the laboratory, including chlorophyll, zooplankton, and zoobenthos
• Process samples using microscopes, dichotomous keys, image analysis software, analytical balances, and benchtop instruments
• Maintain laboratory equipment, supplies, and workspace to ensure operational readiness
• Manage and organize field and laboratory data using spreadsheets and project databases
• Coordinate with NOAA GLERL researchers and project team members on sampling logistics and data sharing
• Perform other duties as assigned by project leadership

Benefits

• Medical: High deductible plan with HSA or a standard PPO plan available.
• Tuition is waived for undergraduate and graduate courses!
• Work Life Program to assist in achieving a balanced life between work and personal needs

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level