Research Technician

University of Texas at Austin • Port Aransas, TX

1d • $35,000 - $40,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The MMAR Lab is looking for a motivated and organized individual to join our group as a Research Technician. The position primarily focuses on marine microbial culturing, field sampling, and laboratory management. The MMAR Lab studies how plankton adapt to a changing ocean using both experimental and modeling approaches. While the technician will be responsible for the core operational needs of the lab, there is significant room for intellectual growth. We strongly encourage individuals who are excited to eventually lead their own independent research projects once they have become settled in the lab and familiar with our systems. This can be an excellent stepping stone toward graduate studies in the future. Start date would ideally be no later than July 2026. Position is located in Port Aransas, Texas 1-year initially, with a 2-year renewal depending on performance and funding

Requirements

• The candidate will have a Bachelor’s in biology, chemistry, marine science, microbiology, or related discipline.
• They should possess strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks independently.
• The candidate will have effective communication skills and a collaborative spirit.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with aseptic technique, microbial culturing, or field-based water sampling is desirable, but not required.
• In addition, a background in data analysis or R is a plus, but not required.

Responsibilities

• Maintain marine microbial cultures; responsible for the daily care, monitoring, and scaling of protist cultures, ensuring the stability of experimental strains.
• Support the field sampling and sample processing in the context of our Texas Gulf Center Research Program collaborative effort at UTMSI.
• General lab support: assist ongoing experiments, buy lab supplies, and keep lab chemical inventories.
• Independent research (optional but encouraged): develop and lead specific research components or independent projects in alignment with lab goals.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees