Research Technician III, Duke University Marine Lab, Beaufort

Duke Careers•Durham, NC

1d•$23 - $34•Onsite

About The Position

As a Research Technician III in the Silliman Lab at the Duke University Marine Lab, you will join a collaborative research and training environment focused on inclusivity, equity, and excellence in science. You will contribute to building use-inspired, place-based conservation solutions for coastal ecosystems. The Silliman Lab partners with Duke RESTORE and the Duke Wetland and Coast Center, utilizing field experiments, observational studies, and synthesis to advance predictive understanding for conservation and ecosystem restoration. This role blends hands-on coastal fieldwork, laboratory systems support, and day-to-day research operations, with a focus on seagrass aquaculture and restoration logistics, while also supporting multiple ongoing projects. It is ideal for individuals who thrive in dynamic environments, enjoy problem-solving, and are eager to develop new technical and organizational skills.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology, ecology, marine science, environmental science, or a related field.
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to field sites.
Two (2) years of relevant research experience (a related master’s degree may substitute 1:1 for required experience).
Ability to manage multiple responsibilities across field, laboratory, and administrative settings.
Ability to work independently, troubleshoot operational challenges, and maintain attention to detail.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Familiarity with basic field and laboratory procedures and ability to follow established protocols.
Ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment and coordinate across diverse teams.
Ability to work in variable outdoor conditions for extended periods; ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and move between buildings.
Ability to drive small research boats (or willingness to learn) and drive a work truck.

Nice To Haves

Preferred: experience supporting fieldwork logistics, managing research infrastructure, and/or contributing to laboratory operations.
Experience mentoring or supervising students or volunteers.
Familiarity with boats, trailers, and coastal field operations.
Experience managing shared spaces, equipment, or research infrastructure.
Ability to co-write and/or write scientific papers.
Local knowledge of coastal ecosystems and habitats.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and support logistics for seagrass seed production, storage, and out-planting (scheduling, procurement, site support).
Set up and monitor field experiments evaluating seagrass seed production and planting techniques.
Collect data in coastal systems (including seagrass beds, salt marshes, and oyster reefs) using established protocols.
Collect, process, and document samples; maintain accurate records of procedures, data, and results.
Train to operate and drive a skiff for lab research and Duke RESTORE activities.
Maintain and monitor seagrass seed storage systems and associated aquaculture infrastructure.
Set up and support laboratory experiments and sample-processing workflows.
Prepare summaries of field and lab activities; deliver regular updates and contribute to reports.
Perform data entry and quality control; assist with basic analyses and visualizations for publications and reports.
Support lab members with field and lab components of their projects; provide coordination support to students or junior personnel when needed.
Participate in Duke classes, meetings, and training sessions that build skills relevant to the role.
Provide regular communication: submit a monthly report to Dr. Silliman and meet weekly.
Maintain lab spaces to support safe, compliant, and organized work (cleanliness, organization, safety protocols).
Track inventories of supplies and equipment; coordinate ordering, receiving, and basic budget tracking.
Manage shared resources (equipment scheduling; coordinate maintenance and repairs).
Coordinate use and upkeep of research vehicles, boats, and trailers (inspections, servicing, cleaning).
Support project administration (purchasing, reimbursements, permits, and reporting requirements).
Assist with onboarding and coordination of students, volunteers, interns, and visiting researchers.
Maintain organized records of lab activities, protocols, and data workflows.
Participate in lab meetings, training, and professional development activities.