Marine eDNA Seagoing Technician
The University of California, San Diego
About this position
Position Description
Under general supervision, carry out the duties of a seagoing technician for up to 120 days per year and up to 40 days per cruise. Prepare, maintain, deploy and troubleshoot autonomous eDNA sampling instrumentation both on land and on research cruises. Operate and monitor eDNA sampling instruments at sea, applying analytical judgment to ensure optimal performance and data quality. Apply theoretical knowledge of molecular biology and oceanographic sampling to adapt complex procedures as needed for new research conditions or instruments. Maintain accurate, detailed records of sample collection and handling. Coordinate sample logistics between SIO and research vessels. At sea, operate and monitor eDNA sampling instruments to ensure optimal performance and data quality. Ashore, collaborate with the supervising researcher to evaluate instrument performance and work directly with the instrument manufacturer to troubleshoot technical issues and support system improvements. Contribute to improvements in eDNA data management workflows to support the dissemination of data products on the CalCOFI website.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in marine science, oceanography, engineering, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Theoretical and practical knowledge of oceanography, chemistry, biology, and engineering principles needed for data collection, analysis, and quality control. Minimum of 14 days seagoing experience with demonstrated ability to perform technical procedures independently at sea. Ability to work at sea for several weeks at a time, including tolerance for physically demanding and variable conditions. Experience with oceanographic instrumentation, molecular biology, and sterile laboratory techniques. Strong organizational skills with ability to independently manage supplies, equipment inventories, and sampling logistics across ship and shore environments. Careful attention to detail and record keeping, including experience in maintaining sample tracking systems or field logbooks. Familiarity with safe handling, labeling, and disposal of chemical preservatives and biological samples in accordance with institutional and regulatory safety standards. Profiecient in MS Word, PowerPoint, and Excel or equivalent. Experience with GitHub or other version-control platforms for protocol and data management. Excellent interpersonal communication skills (oral and written). Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Ability to interact using tact and diplomacy with diverse personalities, including academic, staff, student and volunteer employees and institutions/organizations.