Mote Marine Laboratory is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively seeks to diversify its work force. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category.
Openings
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Senior Research Scientist in either Shark or Manatee Biology, Behavior and Conservation
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Education Specialist II - Keys Camp Programs Summerland Key, FL
Risk Manager
Leads the identification, communication, measurement, and management of company-wide risk.
Conducts risk assessments of all Mote activities and with President, Vice and Associate Vice Presidents and Laboratory and Radiation Safety officers input, develops, communicates and manages safe and realistic work practices and conditions which address areas of exposure, including but not limited to:
-staff safety, safe practice of job duties;
-Buildings, equipment and grounds safety and security for staff and public at all Mote campuses, laboratories, aquarium, shops, offices, vessels, vehicles and operations;
-patents and product liability;
-volunteer safety and liability and best practices;
-Event safety, security and liability;
-boat safety, vessel and captain legal and licensure requirements, preventative and ongoing maintenance;
-vehicle safety, legal and licensure requirements, preventative and ongoing maintenance, driver record requirements, use of personal vehicles conducting Mote business;
-Public transport;
-Child safety;
-Independent contractor requirements and compliance.
-Develop compliance measures and work with AVPs and managers in managing compliance with all safety requirements;
-Collaborate with local law enforcement and emergency services in risk assessment, remediation and education.
Develops and implements annual workers comp safety goals.
Coordinating with HR Manager, manages the workers’ compensation and incident reporting program and processes, assesses potential claims and reports claims to carriers as appropriate. Ensures documentation and related records are maintained and safeguarded.
Reviews and updates incident reporting practices, communicates and educates current and new staff on processes.
Provides timely notification of incidents and claims to insurers.
Develops and communicates processes to address loss events.
Develops and maintains up-to-date Environmental Health and Safety policy information section of MML Employee Manual pertaining to regulatory applicability and general safety and health compliance.
Oversees compliance with federal, state, local and insurance industry regulations, guidelines and prudent practices related to life, fire, and environmental safety and health. Develops professional relationships in the industry.
Maintains safety, health, environmental and waste program-related records, and maintains library of government health and safety regulations and other reference materials.
Performs annual assessment, update and implementation of Emergency Preparedness Plans and Emergency Evacuation communications.
Oversees employee personal protective equipment protocols and provides guidance in designing and implementing ergonomically safe working environments.
Works closely with President and AVPs to identify and address areas of risk with proposed ventures, buildings, events and other major activities.
Collaborates with Business Office in annual insurance policy renewals including data preparation, loss histories, review and negotiations, documentation maintenance. Evaluates and provides recommendations regarding selection of policies, including but not limited to: Property, Casualty, General Liability, Umbrella and Excess, Workers’ Compensation, Directors and Officers, and Cyber-risk policies.
Gathers and maintains Mote's property loss data, works with outside insurers, FEMA and other entities in resolving claims.
Works with Sponsored Programs staff to ensure contract language which addresses
insurance carriers and Mote's requirements.
Seeks opportunities and ensures a means of delivery of training programs including the generation, accumulation, disposal of chemical waste, biomedical and blood-borne pathogens, radiological waste, laboratory hygiene, emergency procedures, first aid, CPR, AED, scientific diving, 02 administration, zootoxins, fire prevention and other programs to educate staff and volunteers in various safety topics.
Point of contact for staff to report unusual or suspicious activity.
Works with operations, law enforcement and emergency services in reviewing and managing Mote security.
Other duties as assigned.
Minimum Requirements:
Must possess a valid Florida Driver’s License by job start date.
Bachelor’s Degree with focus in Risk Management, Occupational Health and Safety, Business Administration or other related degree.
Minimum four years’ experience in Risk Management or related field in an environment with multiple occupational or public health and safety hazards.
Ability to communicate clearly verbally and in writing
Computer skills in word processing, spreadsheets, and other communications.
Working knowledge of Environmental Health and Safety regulations and issues
Physical Requirements:
Ability to climb stairs and ladders
Ability to lift 25 pounds
Must be able to tolerate environments with chemicals, biologicals and radiologicals
Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file, 1) a cover letter, 2) resume, and 3) the names and contact information for three references, before 5pm April 3, 2020 to HumanResources@mote.org. Alternatively, a single package of all requested elements may be submitted to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other protected category.
Staff Chemist I
Work includes (but is not limited to) chemical and physical analyses, participation in field sampling which may include travel; operations from trucks or boats, occasional evening/night shifts, and driving laboratory vehicles both with and without boat trailers. In additional to analyses, other activities are carried out according the Quality Plan dictates and objectives; including operation and maintenance of scientific equipment; preparations for field trips; sample analyses, and data quality assessments. Proficiency is expected for work on personal computers, (Word and Excel software), and, after initial training, on water quality instrumentation, navigation and safety equipment, balances, pH meters, and spectrophotometers, and the like. In general, Staff Chemists will develop skills in particular laboratory analyses and activities and accept assignment to specific projects. Emergency CPR, First Aid, and Coast Guard small vessel safety courses are available through the laboratory and a Staff Chemist will be expected to obtain these certifications within a finite period.
Requirements
A bachelor’s degree with a major or minor in chemistry from an accredited university. In lieu of a chemistry degree, course work in other natural science areas or employment in a related field will be considered. Alternatively, a high school degree with at least five years experience in a chemical or analytical laboratory setting will be considered in lieu of a bachelor’s degree.
Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file, 1) a cover letter, 2) resume, and 3) the names and contact information for three references, before 5pm April 3, 2020 to HumanResources@mote.org. Alternatively, a single package of all requested elements may be submitted to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other protected category.
Staff Scientist/Program Manager, Ocean Technology Program
The Ocean Technology Program of Mote Marine Laboratory has an opening for a full-time, Staff Scientist/Program Manager. The successful candidate should have a PhD, DSc, or equivalent in oceanography, marine science or engineering with experience in instrumentation for the marine environment. Experience in interdisciplinary research, biogeochemical measurements and instrumentation, optics, autonomous instrument platforms, and/or ocean observing systems will be advantageous. The successful candidate must have a demonstrated capability to conceive, design and implement instrumentation or device intended for an application in their field of study. Hands-on experience with mechanical, electrical, optical or computer technology will be a rated metric in the selection process.
The successful candidate will manage an existing small engineering and ocean technology team and will be responsible for identifying additional personnel needs. The new program manager will interact with optical instrument developers, apply existing instrumentation on autonomous platforms (Webb gliders) and fixed stations, to research questions involving Harmful Algal Blooms under existing projects, lead the migration of existing instruments to additional generations and novel platforms, participate in regional and national activities supporting the Gulf of Mexico Coastal Ocean Observing System, manage and enhance Mote’s existing Sarasota Operations – Coastal Ocean Observing System (SO-COOL) develop new instrumentation, and procure grants in support of his/her specific areas of interest.
The position also affords the opportunity for hosting of visiting scientists, interactions with scientists from multiple disciplines at Mote, oversight of student interns and volunteers, and to serve as Courtesy Faculty, teaching courses in the University of South Florida-Sarasota Manatee undergraduate degree program in partnership with Mote.
Mote is an independent, not-for-profit, 501 C(3) research and education institution. The hire will be at the Staff Scientist level with the opportunity to advance to Senior Scientist. As a Staff Scientist, the successful candidate is expected to report findings in significant peer reviewed professional publications and participate in professional organizations and meetings.
Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file in pdf format including, 1) a cover letter, 2) full resume or CV with complete publications list (accepted, in press, and in review), 3) a statement of research interests, and 4) the names and contact information for three references to HumanResources@mote.org. Alternatively, a single package of all requested elements may be submitted to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236. Applications will be reviewed immediately and will close when filled, or on 4/20/20, whichever comes first. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other protected category. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States. However, we are not able to sponsor visas at this time. The starting salary will be approximately $75,000 per year, commensurate with experience, with a generous benefits package.
Education Specialist II - Keys Camp Programs Summerland Key, FL
This position is located at Mote’s Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research and Restoration in Summerland Key, Florida. This is a residential position and includes housing. This is a seasonal position from May 18th - August 7th. Male applicants strongly encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities
The ESII for Keys Camp Programs will be supporting other Mote staff and interns to provide an outstanding learning environment during our residential camp experiences in the Florida Keys. The ESII for Keys Programs will be responsible for assisting, teaching, logistical arrangements, and maintaining safe conditions for campers. In addition, other responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Checking and preparing equipment for campers (includes snorkel gear, safety equipment, lab supplies, etc.)
Cleaning gear and equipment, storing after use
Assisting with set-up and clean-up before and after campers’ visit
Developing and leading programming for middle and high school age participants
Providing tour of property when campers arrive, outlining safety, privacy and security matters
Providing snorkel workshop and training for campers
Transporting students throughout the Keys
Lead & overseeing swim/ snorkel review and safety check
Assisting with meal preparation, coordination and reservations
Accompanying and interacting with campers on snorkel trips and other field excursions
Lifeguarding from shore stations and aboard boat as needed
Handle disciplinary behaviors of campers and communicate with parents
Maintain a safe, educational and positive environment for campers, staff, interns and any other associated people
Laboratory Category: Full-time, temporary (seasonal) without benefits
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in education, science, or related field or equivalent experience
Experience in non-formal science education program development and delivery
Experience in residential education experiences
Experience demonstrating the ability to:
Communicate effectively verbally and in writing
Work long hours at outdoor locations in hot/cold weather, high humidity, intense sunlight and wet weather while responsible for students
Carry/move heavy objects
Valid US driver’s license with clean driving record and at least 5 years of driving experience
U.S. citizenship or foreign citizen’s U.S. work permit appropriate for the work
First Aid, CPR, Lifeguard certifications
Advanced Open Water SCUBA certified; Rescue Diver Certification preferred (Rescue Diver Certification must be completed before camp start date). Experience snorkeling/SCUBA with students preferred.
Core Competencies and Characteristics
Our ideal candidate is an honest, caring, and professional individual with a strong work ethic and a contagious, positive energy. S/he is incredibly responsible, has a proactive approach, and is an enthusiastic educator who believes deeply in Mote and its mission.
Hiring Conditions
The hiring of a successful candidate for this position is conditional on successful completion of a background check.
To Apply
Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file, 1) a cover letter, 2) resume, and 3) the names and contact information for three references, before 5pm April 3, 2020 to HumanResources@mote.org. Alternatively, a single package of all requested elements may be submitted to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236.
Volunteer Coordinator - Part Time
The part-time Volunteer Coordinator will work with the Assistant Vice President for Education and other Volunteer Resources staff to ensure the needs are met for new and existing volunteers, as well as Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium.
General Duties
Job duties will include, but are not limited to:
Providing outstanding on-site support and resources for Mote volunteers
Managing volunteer database, record-keeping, reporting, communication, and other support activities in the Volunteer office
Fielding phone calls, electronic communications and visits to answer questions about volunteer opportunities
Interviewing and placing potential new Mote volunteers
Development, planning, execution and evaluation of volunteer functions including: training classes, shift briefings, meetings, orientations, social gatherings, and other events
Liaising with Volunteer Shift Leaders to place, train and follow-up with new volunteers
Assisting with communication of volunteer opportunities internally and throughout the community
Developing and maintaining productive, positive relationships with the volunteers and staff
Working with Mote staff and departments to meet their volunteer needs
Visiting community events and meetings to promote the volunteer program as needed
Knowledge, Skills, and other Characteristics
Our ideal candidate is honest, caring, and professional with a tireless work ethic and a contagious, positive energy. S/he is a giving team member, a creative problem solver, and an enthusiastic collaborator and networker who believes deeply in Mote and its mission.
This candidate will possess outstanding communication skills, poise, and confidence, skilled in written and oral communication with the ability to represent Mote Marine Laboratory to a variety of audiences, and to train others to do so. This candidate should have proven ability to develop and implement objectives, strategies, and tactics with skill in organizing and facilitating meetings, and assisting with implementing projects and programs. They should have a strong commitment to customer service, sound judgment, an understanding of the challenges and opportunities of organizations with extensive volunteer engagement, and the determination to work towards a common purpose with skill in facilitating change. We expect the highest ethical standards, personal integrity, intelligence, good humor, resilience, energy, and spirit.
Laboratory Category: Non-exempt. This is a part-time position not to exceed 29 hours/week. Working days are Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, with some periodic additional hours including evenings throughout the year.
Minimum Requirements
College degree in education, communications, human resources, business, or related fields.
Experience working with volunteers.
Strong computer skills including proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite.
Strong customer service ethic.
Database management experience preferred.
Experience working with Volgistics prefered.
Florida driver’s license (or eligibility to obtain one upon arrival).
U.S. citizenship or foreign citizen’s U.S. work permit appropriate for the work.
Hiring Conditions
The hiring of a successful candidate for this position is conditional on a background check within 3 weeks of start date.
To Apply
Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file, 1) a cover letter, 2) resume, and 3) the names and contact information for three references, before 5pm March 27th to HumanResources@mote.org. Alternatively, a single package of all requested elements may be submitted to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236.
Philanthropy Officer
Mote Marine Laboratory (Mote) is an independent marine research institution dedicated to the advancement of marine science through research, education and public outreach leading to new discoveries and the revitalization and sustainability of our oceans.
Under the general supervision of the Director of Development, the Philanthropy Officer at Mote Marine Laboratory will be responsible for securing significant revenue for Mote. S/he will be expected to develop dynamic fundraising strategies focused on engaging, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding an assigned portfolio of major donors as well as developing new prospects focused on leadership level giving for the organization. A skilled communicator with strong attention to detail, s/he will manage the full solicitation process from identification to the development of compelling oral and written proposals.
Bachelors degree or equivalent and at least three years of fundraising or similar experience required. Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file, 1) a cover letter, 2) resume and 3) the names and contact information for three references to HumanResources@mote.org . Alternatively, a single package of all requested elements may be submitted to: Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236. Select candidates will generate writing samples as part of the interview process. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Philanthropy Officer – Planned Gifts
Mote Marine Laboratory (Mote) is an independent marine research institution dedicated to the advancement of marine science through research, education and public outreach leading to new discoveries and the revitalization and sustainability of our oceans.
Under the general supervision of the Director of Development, the Philanthropy Officer – Planned Gifts at Mote Marine Laboratory will cultivate and solicit planned gifts from individual Mote donors, members and volunteers. S/he will also be expected to develop dynamic fundraising strategies focused on engaging, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding an assigned portfolio of major donors. A skilled communicator with strong attention to detail, s/he will manage the full solicitation process from identification to the development of compelling oral and written proposals.
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and a minimum of five years in major gift or gift planning fundraising with successful cultivating and soliciting experience is preferred. Experienced candidates from the financial, estate and/or philanthropic planning, law, and trust administration fields are encouraged to apply. Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file, 1) a cover letter, 2) resume and 3) the names and contact information for three references to HumanResources@mote.org. Alternatively, a single package of all requested elements may be submitted to: Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236. Select candidates will generate writing samples as part of the interview process. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Staff Chemist – Ocean Acidification
The Ocean Acidification Program at Mote Marine Laboratory seeks a staff chemist with a minimum 2 years experience with experimental seawater ocean acidification facilities including carbonate chemistry experience. This position will be permanently located in Summerland Key, Florida at the Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Restoration and Research (IC2R3). General duties to be performed include working with research-focused outdoor raceways and the CAOS (Climate and Acidification Ocean Simulator) at IC2R3. This includes sample collection, monitoring and analysis of total seawater alkalinity, dissolved inorganic carbon, spectrophotometric pH, and other water quality parameters. Tasks also include maintaining the dry ocean acidification (OA) laboratory, maintaining the dry chemistry laboratory, keeping track of and ordering all supplies and materials, keeping all OA-related work organized, instrument maintenance, data entry, and some field work. This position will also involve some specific experimental and field work on OA and organism response to OA. The staff chemist will also be responsible for managing and mentoring student interns year round. This position might require longer days and weekend work. Travel to the main lab in Sarasota, Florida is possible. Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs. and must be able to work in a hot/outdoor environment.
Requirements:
B.S required, M.S preferred. Preferably with a chemistry or ocean acidification background.
Knowledge of coral reef ecosystems
Familiar with organism life support for ocean acidification testing
Familiar with standard computer software, data handling applications such as R and database management
U.S. citizenship or foreign citizen’s U.S. work permit appropriate for the work is required
Special Qualifications:
Knowledge of ocean acidification, CO2Sys or CO2Calc, and monitoring equipment
Previous laboratory and experimental systems experience, especially with carbonate chemistry instruments
Familiar with marine organism experimental testing equipment (pH monitoring probes, temperature probes, tanks, pumps, filters, heaters, etc.)
Strong troubleshooting skills
Ability to work autonomously
Very organized with great attention to detail
Willing to work with groups from other institutions
Ability to move, live and work in a remote location (Florida Keys)
Open water SCUBA, AAUS Scuba preferred
Boat handling skills, US Coast Guard OUPV/Six-pack Captain's License preferred
Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file, 1) a cover letter, 2) resume, and 3) the names and contact information for three references, before 5pm March 27, 2020 to HumanResources@mote.org. Alternatively, a single package of all requested elements may be submitted to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236.
Part Time Education Specialist II - Summerland Key, FL
Description
The Part time Education Specialist II will assist with instruction and evaluation of educational programs at Mote Marine Laboratory’s International Center for Coral Reef Research and Restoration (IC2R3) and within the community. The Education Specialist II works closely with staff, volunteers, and interns in the Education Department and throughout the Lab to ensure that our mission and the needs of the audiences are being met. This position will be based in Summerland Key, Florida.
General Duties
Implement engaging hands-on educational activities
Prepare and teach on-site classroom/lab/field programs, outreach programs, facility tours, evening events, and other education programs
Provide high quality group management to groups of participants of varying ages
Provide direction to other staff, interns and volunteers working with the program
Prepare, organize and maintain educational resources
Provide outstanding customer service to our guests
Other duties as assigned by supervisor
Working Hours
Full time Education Specialist IIs will work 20 - 30 hours per week with a schedule determined by their supervisor. Schedules will vary and may include evening, weekend, and holiday hours.
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in education, science (or current enrollment in these degree programs) or related field or equivalent experience
At least one year formal/informal teaching experience preferred
Valid US driver’s license with clean driving record and at least 5 years of driving experience
Reliable transportation and the ability to arrive at (off-site) locations at designated times
U.S. citizenship or foreign citizen’s U.S. work permit appropriate for the work
Certifications required: CPR/First Aid, Open Water SCUBA
Certifications preferred: Lifeguarding, Rescue SCUBA
Excellent verbal/written communication skills
Stamina for working occasional long hours at outdoor locations in hot/cold weather, high humidity, intense sunlight, and wet weather while responsible for youth and adult participants
Not excessively prone to motion/sea sickness
Ability to carry/move heavy objects up to 40 lbs.
Hiring Conditions
The hiring of a successful candidate for this position is conditional on a background check.
To Apply
Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file, 1) a cover letter, 2) resume, and 3) the names and contact information for three references, before 5pm March 27, 2020 to HumanResources@mote.org. Alternatively, a single package of all requested elements may be submitted to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236.
Mote Overview: Mote is celebrating over 64 years as one of the few remaining independent, non-profit international marine research laboratories. The Mote research enterprise has more than 20 diverse research programs, a diverse array of education/outreach programs, and an aquarium featuring working laboratories and more than 100 marine species. Mote currently has over 200 staff and 1700 volunteers that are located on its main campus in Sarasota, with others at five additional campuses/facilities including a state-of-the-art 200 acre marine and freshwater aquaculture research park, a new 19,000 square foot International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration in the Florida Keys and work is underway for the over 100,000 square foot Science Education Aquarium.
The Mote scientific expertise is considerable and diverse, and is augmented by approximately 150 non-resident scientists from over 100 different U.S. and international institutions who are involved in projects at Mote. In addition, more than 70 non-resident scientists from around the world have been appointed as Adjunct Mote Scientists due to their significant level of sustained collaboration with Mote scientists and regular use of Mote facilities to conduct their research.
Mote Arthur Vining Davis Library & Archives: Provides access to scholarly materials that support world-class research and increase the understanding of marine and environmental science. Materials in the library collection support the aquarium and education and research conducted by Mote scientists and staff and are of a scientific/technical nature.
Position Details: Position is requested to start on May 1st, 2020, is full time, and is located at 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236. Position reports to the Associate Vice President of Sponsored Research and Coastal Policy Programs. Salary is $60-70,000 annually plus partially subsidized health insurance, retirement with partial employer matching, and sick/holiday/vacation leave time.
Position Duties:
Manage Mote library and archives in print, digital, and on-line form.
Develop, grow, and oversee Mote archival databases.
Assist researchers, staff and students and deliver efficient and effective library and archival services.
Develop, grow, and implement, in consultation with Mote managers, strategic planning for print and digital libraries.
Oversee interns and volunteers to accomplish library mission.
Regular assessment of, and planning for, research collections to ensure highest standards of preservation and risk management best practices.
Work in collaboration with Mote Education staff to design and implement a variety of programs, including a teacher resource center at the new Science Education Aquarium.
Maintain strict confidentiality and security.
Represent Mote externally at conferences or partner functions as needed.
Pursue professional development opportunities.
Organizing, filing, scanning, and archiving.
Meet weekly with and assist the Associate Vice President of Sponsored Research and Coastal Policy Programs with special projects.
Offer trainings on archiving best practices and effectively using library resources.
Drive a Mote vehicle (must maintain a Florida Driver’s License).
Position Requirements:
American Library Association accredited Master’s Degree is required.
5+ years’ related experience is required.
Academy of Certified Archivists certification is preferred.
Knowledge of library, archival, scientific, and government database resources.
Professionalism, good written and verbal communication, and team-minded.
Strong organizational skills and detail oriented.
Creative problem solving skills.
Ability to adapt to changing priorities.
Work independently on assigned responsibilities.
To apply:
Submit a single PDF file containing a cover letter, resume, and three references with contact information. Address cover letters to the Associate Vice President of Sponsored Research and Coastal Policy Programs.
Send applications by email to humanresources@mote.org, using subject line “Librarian Archivist Application”. Or, mail a single package of all requested materials to Human Resources, Mote Marine Laboratory, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236.
Applications may be submitted at any time and review of applications will begin April 10, 2020 and will end May 1, 2020.
Senior Research Scientist in either Shark or Manatee Biology, Behavior and Conservation
Mote Marine Laboratory announces the availability of a Senior Research Scientist position concerning either elasmobranchs with an emphasis on sharks, or sirenians with an emphasis on manatees. Both positions would require candidates who are currently: 1) a senior scientist of international reputation and esteem, 2) a demonstrated leader in marine conservation, 3) an active participant in contemporary, professional scientific research with a strong history of successful grantsmanship and experience in managing research programs and staffs, and 4) a commitment to the public understanding of the biology, behavior, and conservation of sharks or manatees. This Senior Research Scientist position would be expect to secure and maintain significant external grant funding each year but would be provided a guaranteed Mote base of 100% annual salary and fringe benefits for the initial three years, followed by 75% guarantee for three years and an additional three year commitment at 50%.
SHARKS. Mote’s leadership in shark research traces continuously back to the Laboratory’s founding in 1955, as the Cape Haze Marine Laboratory under Dr. Eugenie Clark. In 1991, the U.S. Congress named Mote as the site of the Center for Shark Research, the nation’s only such-designated research center for sharks and their relatives. Memoranda of Understanding between Mote and several organizations including NOAA help to guide the course of the Laboratory’s shark research. Mote’s Sharks and Rays Conservation Research Program, the unit under which current elasmobranch research is conducted, reflects a priority on studies that contribute to the conservation and rebuilding of depleted elasmobranch populations. This research spans laboratory- and field-based studies from southwest Florida to locations around the world. Facilities for conducting elasmobranch research at Mote include offices and laboratories, an extensive wet lab and animal care facility, and a fleet of research vessels.
This Senior Research Scientist position is expected to lead Mote’s elasmobranch research into the coming decades. It is anticipated that the successful candidate may qualify to receive the Perry W. Gilbert Chair in Shark Research, an endowed chair established in 2001, to support the work of a distinguished, internationally recognized shark biologist in residence at the Laboratory.
MANATEES. The study of wild manatees began at Mote Marine Laboratory in the 1980s with aerial surveys of the coastal waters of Manatee and Sarasota counties. The Manatee Research Program (MRP) was formally founded in 1993, and with the addition of Dr. John Reynolds, III, (Nov. 8, 1952 - Dec. 23, 2017) as program manager in 2000, the MRP grew to become a cornerstone of scientific understanding and protection of these unique mammals in Florida and the Caribbean. The Manatee Research Program continues at Mote, and Reynolds' legacy continues to benefit marine science, conservation, and education around the globe.
The MRP conducts year-round studies of manatee behavioral ecology, distribution, habitat use, genetics, and population status in Florida. The MRP also advises manatee conservation and research actions throughout Florida and the wider Caribbean, and further advises conservation projects for sirenians (manatees and dugongs) globally. Mote’s MRP is one of three organizations (along with U.S. Geological Survey’s Sirenia Project and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) participating via formal Memoranda of Understanding in organizing and maintaining the statewide Manatee Individual Photo-identification System (MIPS) database. Long term aerial and photo-identification surveys throughout the year have proven valuable to coastal community efforts to manage manatees in order to balance human activities with the sustainability of manatees and their habitat. MRP research at Mote is ongoing and also involves collaborators including corresponding and visiting faculty and graduate students, agency and NGO investigators, postdoctoral associates, interns, and volunteers.
A complete application will be a single pdf file containing:
1. Cover Letter addressed to Dr. Michael P. Crosby, Ph.D., FLS, President & CEO; to include confidentiality terms and availability timeline.
2. Curriculum vitae including links to representative publications.
3. Narrative account of experience and accomplishments.
4. Thought piece on your vision for Mote’s future growth and leadership in shark or manatee research.
5. Other Considerations.
6. Names, titles, and contact information (telephone; email) of three references.
Qualified, interested applicants are required to send a complete application to Mote’s Human Resources Office at HumanResources@mote.org with the subject line: “Senior Scientist Application/ Sharks” or “Senior Scientist Application/ Manatees.” Alternatively, a single package of all requested elements may be submitted to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236.
Other media essential to your application may be submitted. The application period will remain open until filled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other protected category. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States. However, we are not able to sponsor visas at this time. Questions regarding the application process may be directed to Ernest D. Estevez, Ph.D., Senior Scientist Emeritus and Search Committee Chair, at estevez@mote.org.
