Light Microscope Analysis: Using established guidelines, conduct inverted phase-contrast microscope analysis to identify species composition and determine numerical abundances of micro/nano phytoplankton in water samples, including: Preparation of water samples for light microscopy using the Utermöhl settling method. Use of inverted phase-contrast microscopy to identify and count phytoplankton cells, including species identification and counts using replicate grid counts at 400X and 100X magnification. Species IDs and counts are entered on standardized data forms. Full range of taxonomic guides are available to assist in identification. Data entry and organization into spreadsheets for further analysis. Conduct fluorescence microscopy to identify taxonomic composition and determine numerical abundances of picoplanktonic (≤ 2 µm) algae species, including: Preparation of water samples for fluorescence microscopy of live or preserved samples mounted onto slides. Data entry and organization into spreadsheets for further analysis. Field Collections: Participate in monthly field trips to coastal marine environments in Florida, including Collection of water samples from various locations, including estuaries, bays, and coastal waters. Use of sampling equipment to collect water samples, including integrated water column samplers and water bottles. Preservation of water samples for subsequent analyses. Transportation of samples to the laboratory for analysis. Conduct field sampling and monitoring, including Use of equipment to measure water quality parameters, such water temperature, salinity, oxygen concentrations, pH, Secchi disk depth. Data will be entered on standardized data forms. General Lab Activities: Preparation of lab equipment and supplies, such as glassware, reagents, and slides. Cleaning and maintenance of lab equipment, including microscopes and sampling gear. Organization and storage of lab supplies and materials. Assist in finalizing data into Excel spreadsheets, including Data entry and organization into spreadsheets. Quality Control and Collaboration: Participate in weekly lab meetings to receive instructions and updates. Work closely the Senior Biological Scientist on ensuring quality control. All data sheets of taxonomic IDs and counts are checked by the Senior Biological Scientist before they are included into the final Excel project files.  Reports to funding agencies and stakeholders will be the responsibility of the PI. Maintain lab safety by actively communicating with supervisor and lab team. Other duties as assigned.

Normal work Schedule:

Field work will involve overnight stays and travel time. Scheduling will be weather dependent. Laboratory work will be carried out on fixed weekly schedule in the lab. Specific schedules can be modified with prior approval.

*This is a time limited position* *Current Employees only* 

$48,024 

Enter special instructions including types of documents to upload here.  For example, "In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume." 

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

*This is a time limited position, Current employees only*