Job Summary

Job Description

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) is seeking a highly skilled Research Assistant I to join our team in a temporary, casual capacity. This position is eligible for casual benefits and is a limited-term appointment from December 29, 2025 through March 6, 2026. The role will sail aboard R/V Roger Revelle on cruise RR2601 as part of the Van Mooy Lab, supporting the U.S. Antarctic Program’s Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) initiative.

The Research Assistant will support daily scientific operations throughout the cruise and will also develop and curate engaging multimedia content—including video, photography, and written materials, that highlights the science, research activities, and scientists aboard the vessel. Content will be prepared for publication across WHOI’s social media platforms, contributing to institutional outreach and science communication efforts.

Essential Functions & Duties

• Collect, process, and document scientific samples from CTD deployments, including filtration and accurate maintenance of sample logs.

• Support deck operations as needed during research activities at sea.

• Prepare and contribute engaging multimedia content (written, audio, and visual) that highlights WHOI research and educational STEAM topics.

• Collaborate with scientific and shipboard personnel to support research and outreach objectives during cruises.

Required Education & Experience

• Experience performing general laboratory duties, including CTD sampling, filtration, and sample documentation.

• Prior research cruise experience.

• Experience creating media content (written, audio, and/or visual) focused on scientific themes, preferably in a field or shipboard environment.

• Demonstrated science communication experience for academic, educational, or public audiences.

• Willingness and ability to travel and spend extended periods at sea, potentially with limited or no internet access.

• Proven ability to work independently or collaboratively in small teams under challenging environmental conditions, including adverse weather and confined spaces.

Preferred Education & Experience

• Teaching or instructional experience.

• Additional prior research cruise experience.

Physical Requirements

• Lifting/carrying less than 25lbs

• General lab safety trainings required.

• Able to spend a contiguous 2 months at sea.

• Ability to function under challenging weather conditions and in confined spaces.

Sea Duty

• Yes

Travel

• Travel to/from Punta Arenas, Chile to board / deboard R/V Revelle for the cruise.

Additional Job Requirements

WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.

EEO Statement

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. 

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.