Program Manager, Gulf Oyster Breeding Center

Aquatic Network; Ocean Springs (MS); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational institution is seeking a Program Manager for the Gulf Oyster Breeding Center. This role involves managing research initiatives focused on oyster aquaculture and restoration. The successful candidate will coordinate breeding programs, oversee operations, and engage with stakeholders. A Master’s degree coupled with 4 years of relevant experience is required, while a Ph.D. is preferred. This full-time position is based in Ocean Springs, MS and offers an opportunity to make a significant impact on the industry's future.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Aquaculture, Biology, or related field required.
• 4 years of experience in research or operations related to aquaculture.
• Valid Driver’s License is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage programs at the Gulf Oyster Breeding Center.
• Develop stakeholder relationships to inform research priorities.
• Produce research outputs including publications and reports.
• Conduct field research and manage data analyses.
• Oversee development of standard operating procedures.

Skills

Project management

Effective communication

Consultation with agencies

Technical analyses

Judgment and decision-making

Presentation skills

Education

Master’s degree in a relevant field

Ph.D. in a relevant field (preferred)

Job description

Program Manager, Gulf Oyster Breeding Center

University of Southern Mississippi, Ocean Springs, MS 39564

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

The Program Manager will manage programs and research activities for the Gulf Oyster Breeding Center, a collaborative initiative with NOAA focused on advancing oyster aquaculture and restoration in the northern Gulf. This position will coordinate an oyster breeding program conducting stakeholder‑informed research to support the oyster aquaculture industry in the Gulf of America by improving traits that enhance production, resilience, and climate readiness. Responsibilities include planning and coordinating research activities, managing hatchery and growout operations related to the breeding program, overseeing data collection and archiving, assisting the principal investigator with reporting, producing and contributing to publications related to the program, acting as liaison with institutional, state, federal and industry partners, and producing guidance deliverables for scientific and industry audiences. The role also involves fostering partnerships, supporting technology transfer, and ensuring smooth operations across Center facilities and partner sites as needed. The position is based at the Thad Cochran Marine Aquaculture Center in Ocean Springs, MS.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and manage programs and research activities at the Gulf Oyster Breeding Center, ensuring alignment with the Center’s strategic goals and NOAA initiatives.
• Develop and maintain stakeholder relationships with state, federal, and private partners to guide Center priorities and inform research and technology transfer efforts.
• Produce and disseminate research outputs, including scientific publications, technical reports, presentations, press articles, and digital content for scientific, industry, and public audiences.
• Conduct and oversee field research activities, including analyses of genomic, transcriptomic, and epigenomic data using methods such as Genotyping by sequencing, RNA sequencing, DNA methylation analyses, and qPCR, along with downstream bioinformatic processing of obtained data.
• Oversee standard operating procedures development, implementation and management and archiving and sharing of data related to programs of the breeding center.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Aquaculture, Biology, Fisheries Biology, Biological Science, Genetics, Marine Biology, Marine Ecology, Ichthyology, or a related field and four (4) years’ experience in research or operations related to commercial aquaculture operations, scientific aquaculture programs, aquatic selective breeding programs, or shellfish or finfish genetics. A valid Driver’s License is required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to plan, organize, and manage research projects, aquaculture operations, and program activities, including supervising personnel to achieve objectives.
• Ability to effectively communicate research results in written, oral, and visual formats.
• Experience consulting with state and federal agencies on research grants and achieving project objectives.
• Strong background in technical analyses and laboratory equipment relevant to aquaculture and genetics research.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, make decisions, and provide clear guidance, while interacting tactfully with colleagues and stakeholders.
• Ability to present study results to scientific, governmental, and industry audiences.

Preferred Qualifications

Ph.D. from an accredited college or university in Aquaculture, Biology, Fisheries Biology, Biological Science, Marine Biology Marine Ecology, Ichthyology, or a related field; and a record of grantsmanship, publication, and project management. Experience with outreach and technology transfer.

Full description and application link at this page