Research Assistant - Oceanographic

Overview Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is hiring a Research Assistant for the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences – Department of Marine & Coastal Sciences. The role supports scientific operations, laboratory preparation, instrumentation, sample processing, expedition logistics, and post‑expedition data and sample organization for a Rutgers‑led oceanographic research expedition aboard the R/V Falkor. Responsibilities Support shipboard and shore‑based scientific operations before, during, and after the expedition. Assist with laboratory and equipment preparation prior to departure. Participate in oceanographic sampling, seawater collection, incubation experiments, and phytoplankton metabolism studies at sea. Process and organize scientific samples and data. Maintain research logs and inventories. Assist with post‑cruise laboratory organization, sample management, and data coordination activities following the expedition. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Marine Science or a related scientific field, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Ability to work effectively in a team‑oriented shipboard research environment. Ability to follow scientific and safety protocols. Strong organizational and communication skills. Willingness to work flexible and extended hours during field operations. Ability to work in close living and working quarters aboard a research vessel. Preferred Qualifications Experience with laboratory, field, research, or shipboard operations, oceanographic sampling methods, CTD or rosette sampling systems, water filtration, and sample processing. Experience with zooplankton and/or phytoplankton sampling and processing methods, zooplankton experimental approaches, biogeochemical rate measurements, and scientific data entry/organization. Familiarity with MATLAB, Python, or other scientific software. Prior use of CTD and Rosette Sampling Systems, zooplankton nets, and other oceanographic sampling equipment such as fluorometers, imaging flow cytobots, or scientific data collection software. Salary and Hours Hourly rate: $25 per hour. 40 hours per week, full time, temporary staff appointment – hourly. Benefits Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage. Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs. Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax‑deferred savings options. Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable). Life insurance coverage. Employee discount programs. Physical Demands and Work Environment Ability to work aboard a research vessel for extended periods in variable ocean conditions. Ability to lift and move scientific equipment and sample containers with or without reasonable accommodation. Ability to work extended and irregular hours during active field operations. Ability to live and work cooperatively in close quarters aboard a research vessel for the duration of the expedition. Special Conditions Obtain required laboratory and vessel safety training. Obtain required medical clearance. Must possess a valid and unexpired passport for international travel. Selection and Availability Position will run for approximately five weeks, from July 27, 2026 through August 31, 2026. Posting open date: 06/01/2026. Posting close date: 06/12/2026. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Rutgers University is an equal access/equal opportunity institution. It encourages all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information, see the Non‑Discrimination Statement at #J-18808-Ljbffr Rutgers University