Research Associate II/III - Marine Carbon Biogeochemist

Job ID 2023-2105

Category Science/Research

Type temporary

US-MA-Woods Hole

Job Summary

Dr. Zhaohui Aleck Wang’s Lab at WHOI is seeking a motivated individual at the Research Associate II or III level, with prior computational and/or modeling expertise or experience with marine carbonate chemistry and the ability to analyze and work with large datasets. This is a regular, full-time, exempt position, and is eligible for benefits. Funding is available through July of 2025 with the possibility of extension based on funding and performance.

The successful candidate will work with team members primarily to conduct computational analyses of regional and global climate model output, but may also participate in field sampling, sensor deployment and lab analysis of the carbonate parameters. Job responsibilities will include analysis of high-resolution, 3D physical and carbonate chemistry model output of the US Northeast Shelf Ecosystem, development of statistical downscaling approaches for global climate model output using both traditional and machine learning tools, organizing and managing carbonate system data, and summarizing acquired data. Job responsibilities for field sampling and measurements may include working as a team member to collect discrete bottle samples of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), total, alkalinity (TA), and pH, deploying a new DIC-pH in situ sensor in coastal waters and running controlled experiments to study impacts of Ocean Acidification. Both computational and field components of the job may involve data synthesis and preparing material for research papers and presentations. The ideal candidate will have proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or R, and possibly experience with high-performance computing, as well as experiences with seawater carbonate chemistry. Other desirable experience includes familiarity with in situ sensors and environmental sampling of chemical species (e.g. carbonate and nutrient chemistry), and experience with GitHub.

Research in the Wang lab at WHOI aims to better understand the marine/aquatic CO2 system. Specifically, we study ocean acidification, the inorganic carbon cycle in marine and other aquatic systems, and CO₂ fluxes across the air-sea interface by developing and deploying cutting-edge in-situ sensors to measure CO₂system parameters, including dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), pH, partial pressure of CO₂ (pCO₂), and alkalinity. The sucessful candidate will be mentored by both Z. Aleck Wang (Associate Scientist, MC&G) and Jennie Rheuban (Research Specialist, MC&G), and will be a full and participating member of the lab group.

Online application forms should be submitted with a cover letter, complete curriculum vitae, and the names and contact information of 4 people willing to write a reference for the candidate. Applications will be reviewed upon submission.

Essential Functions

Development and troubleshooting of analyses of large datasets
Data visualization and analysis in MATLAB, Python or R
Data management, curation, and archiving
Understanding of carbonate chemistry
Good troubleshooting skills, effective time management, attention to detail, ability to work independently
Good writing skills

Education & Experience

Master or PhD with work experience in Oceanography, Chemistry, Engineering, Applied ocean sciences, or a related discipline.

Other experience could include:

Working with and setting up analyses on high performance computing systems
Laboratory skills in carbonate chemistry sample analysis
Field experiences with environmental sampling and sensors

Physical Requirements

Physical duties for this position include but are not limited to, ability to lift less than 25 lbs independently, 2 times per day; carry 10-25 lbs, 2 times per day. Visual abilities to include near, far, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to distinguish basic colors. Hearing requirements include the ability to hear and respond to instructions, communicate effectively in loud areas (pier/dock, warehouse). Other physical tasks include occasional prolonged standing/walking; use of hands for basic /fine grasping and manipulation, repetitive motion, reaching above and below the shoulders, pushing, pulling, kneeling, bending, twisting, and stooping. Other occupational requirements include talking, traveling, working around others, and with others, as well as alone. Will be exposed to dust or other irritants and electrical/mechanical/power equipment hazards. Physical duties are subject to change.

Sea Duty

Sea Duty possible.

May work at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. Sleep and work hours can deviate from those on land. May be expected to work on watch schedule (such as 8 hours on and 8 hours off or 12 hours on and 8 hours off) for all or part of a cruise or to work as hours are needed to accomplish the planned work. May need to travel during holidays and for long distances to and from foreign ports. May experience rudimentary living and working conditions, with shared and basic living quarters and laboratories. May experience bad or extreme weather conditions, including heavy seas, winter weather or hot, tropical weather. Work on deck may occur in both hot and cold conditions around the clock. Sea conditions will lead to active ship motion. Should be able to climb steep and vertical ladders and able to enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills. Should be able to carry gear and participate in the loading and unloading of the ship as well as in the activities on deck and in the labs during the cruise. Shipboard environment may include: confined areas, shared sleeping quarters (berths) and bathroom facilities, small and basic berthing, fixed meal times and basic menus. Modest levels of heating, cooling, ventilation, and illumination, limited or no email and internet access and limited off-duty and recreational facilities (library, lounge, movies). May be exposed to potential allergens and irritants, including paint fumes. May experience constant and intermittent loud noises, and slippery and uneven surfaces.

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

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Research Associate II/III - Marine Carbon Biogeochemist