Marine Mammal Field & Lab Research Assistant

Oregon State University; Newport; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

Oregon State University’s Marine Mammal Institute in Newport, OR, invites applications for a part-time (0.60 FTE) Faculty Research Assistant. This 12‑month fixed-term role supports diverse field operations, data management, and lab administration.

Responsibilities include operating small boats for cetacean data collection, maintaining equipment, coordinating field logistics, and assisting with data analysis.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree plus 2+ years of research experience.
• Experience as a marine mammal observer.
• Significant experience as a small boat driver around cetaceans.
• Experience in ecological data collection methods: photo-ID, behavior, prey sampling, drone ops, suction-cup tagging, biopsy, acoustics.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Clear, honest communication skills.
• Willingness to work long field days including weekends/holidays.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.
• Valid U.S. driver’s license with ability to tow boats.

Responsibilities

• Operate small boats around cetaceans for data collection.
• Maintain equipment and coordinate repairs.
• Conduct marine mammal survey observations from vessels.
• Manage data and archive samples.
• Process and organize photo-ID images.
• Assist with data analysis (photo-ID, drone imagery, environmental data).
• Enter data into databases and manage lab records.
• Lead lab outreach and assist with lab field operations.
• Support lab and field health and safety procedures.
• Assist with permit and project reporting.

Skills

Marine mammal observer

Small boat driver

R programming

Data management

Communication skills

Field work

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree + 2+ years

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Access

ArcGIS

MATLAB

Job description

Oregon State University’s Marine Mammal Institute in Newport, OR, invites applications for a part-time (0.60 FTE) Faculty Research Assistant. This 12‑month fixed-term role supports diverse field operations, data management, and lab administration.

Responsibilities include operating small boats for cetacean data collection, maintaining equipment, coordinating field logistics, and assisting with data analysis.