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.
Our employment openings are listed below. Recent doctoral students are also invited to apply for our Mote Postdoctoral Research Fellowships, with current opportunities focused on sharks and manatees.
Openings
Librarian Archivist
Mote Overview: Mote is celebrating over 65 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 230 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 September 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 $50-70,000 annually (commensurate with experience) 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 preferred.
3+ 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 August 7, 2020 and will end August 21, 2020.
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.
Florida Red Tide Initiative Postdoctoral Scientist Position
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 220 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.
Position: Mote Marine Laboratory seeks a postdoctoral scientist to oversee the red tide mitigation and control mesocosm facility that is being established as part of the Florida Red Tide Mitigation and Technology Development Initiative. A qualified candidate should have knowledge or experience with large experimental seawater facilities, water quality sampling, Florida red tide, and possess good communication skills. Experience with phytoplankton culture, nutrients, and husbandry are preferred but not required. This postdoctoral scientist will be responsible for assisting red tide mitigation and control studies with both Mote and partnering scientists, scheduling and guiding users of the mesocosm facility, assisting with oversight of staff, and grant writing. The facility is located at the Mote Aquaculture Park at 874 W.R. Mote Way, Sarasota, FL 34240.
This is a full time position, it is expected to begin July 1 2020, includes an annual salary of $50,000 with cost of living increase considerations, and continue for up to five years - with appropriate work performance. Partially-subsidized health insurance is also provided, with family options available. Benefits include an opt-in retirement plan with employer matching, leaves for holidays, illness, and vacation, and other benefits. The postdoctoral scientist will participate in an NSF-compliant mentoring program, will organizationally report to the Red Tide Initiative Administrator, and work under the mentorship of Mote PhD scientists, and will receive office/laboratory space at the Mote Aquaculture Park.
How to Apply: Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file containing: 1) Cover letter addressed to Kevin Claridge, 2) CV, 3) Names and contact information for three references to HumanResources@mote.org with the subject heading: Red Tide Initiative, Postdoctoral Scientist Application”. Alternatively, a single printed 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 but no later than June 26, 2020. 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. U.S. citizenship or foreign citizen’s U.S. work permit appropriate for the work is required. Questions regarding the application process may be directed to Kevin Claridge at kclaridge@mote.org or 941-388-4441, ext 275.
Requirements:
Valid Driver’s License.
Ph.D. in marine science, biology, chemistry, or other environmental field required.
Knowledge of experimental systems.
Familiar with standard computer software, data handling applications such as R and database management.
The ability to work productively in a group setting, as you will work collaboratively with the PIs, other postdoctoral scientists, graduate students, interns, and other researchers on this interdisciplinary effort.
Special Qualifications:
Knowledge of Karenia brevis (Florida Red Tide) preferred but not required.
Previous laboratory and experimental systems experience.
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.
Good communication skills.
Development Associate
Mote Marine Laboratory, located in Sarasota, Florida, was founded in 1955 as an independent marine research institution and has since become a distinguished and integrated research enterprise with a focus on education, public outreach, and public policy programs.
Position Overview
The Development Associate will support corporate partnership creation and fulfillment, event and aquarium sponsorship and digital fundraising for annual donors. The Development Associate at Mote Marine Laboratory will report directly to the Chief Development Officer (CDO) and work collaboratively and independently as part of Mote’s overall Development Team.
The Development Associate will:
• Work with CDO to create annual digital fundraising plan providing thorough planning and strategy for increased giving and retention. This includes coordinating and creating engaging email appeal campaigns, online forms and surveys, peer to peer fundraisers, crowdfunding campaigns and automated email communication streams.
• Create effective engagement strategies for current corporate partners and grow total corporate giving. Analyze current partner benefits to optimize giving, using data analysis.
• Research new corporate prospects and work to develop strategies, access points, and modes of engagement.
• Create grant proposals, presentations, applications, status reports and other materials as needed in support of sponsor and partnership solicitation.
• Create a fulfillment plan for each new corporate partnership secured, which includes a clear roadmap for fulfillment of benefits by individuals. Ensure all benefits are fulfilled and engagement metrics are tracked and reported back to partners.
• Provide principal development role for special events and programs, including securing event sponsorship, development and management of guest list, and other tasks as needed.
• Steward donors and partners throughout the year to create meaningful relationships among key stakeholders. Contribute to stewardship plan creation and implementation.
• Provide support for Mote’s overall development efforts, which may include but is not limited to, supporting Mote’s communications and fundraising events efforts.
• Become extremely knowledgeable regarding Mote Marine Laboratory, continually finding ways to increase personal knowledge.
Competencies:
• Accuracy, attention to detail, and excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to set priorities, complete tasks, works well under pressure and maintains a high level of confidentiality.
• Self-directed with strong ability to plan ahead, work both collaboratively and independently, and establish and adhere to deadlines.
• Team-oriented work style.
• Excellent writing and communication skills.
• Proficient user of Microsoft Office including: Word, Excel, PowerPoint and others.
• Bachelor’s degree and minimum 3 years fundraising experience or equivalent
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 by August 7, 2020. 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.
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.
Environmental and Occupational Safety Officer
In collaboration with key personnel, reviews, manages and communicates best practices, conditions and compliance in relation 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;
-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;
Develops and implements annual workers comp safety goals. Coordinating with HR Manager, manages
workers’ compensation and incident reporting. 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 and with local law enforcement and emergency services.
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 key personnel 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.
Gathers and maintains Mote's property loss data, works with outside insurers, FEMA and other entities in resolving claims.
Seeks opportunities and facilitates 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.
Minimum Requirements:
Must possess a valid Florida Driver’s License by job start date.
Bachelor’s Degree with focus in Environmental and/or Occupational Health and Safety preferred;
commensurate advanced experience may be accepted in lieu of degree specific focus.
Minimum three years’ experience in Environmental and/or Occupational Health and Safety or related field in an environment with multiple occupational or public health and safety hazards.
Working knowledge of typical business insurance coverages.
Ability to communicate clearly verbally, in writing and in computer communications.
Experience with word processing and spreadsheets.
Working knowledge of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety regulations and issues.
Ability to multi-task and problem solve with ease.
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 July 10, 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.
Staff Analytical Chemist – Ecotoxicology Program
The Ecotoxicology Program at Mote Marine Laboratory seeks a staff chemist with a minimum 2 year’s experience with operation and method development on LC/MS-MS system and chemistry background to understand sample prep for mass spectrometry to be filled as soon as possible. This position will be located in Sarasota, Florida. General duties to be performed include working with a research-focused experimental system and LC/MS-MS analyses (including natural toxins, personal care products, and pesticides). This is a 1-year position with the possibility for renewal. The staff analytical chemist will also be responsible for assisting with mentoring student interns year-round. This position might require longer days and weekend work. Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs. and must be able to work in hot/outdoor environments at times.
Essential Functions
• Operation and method development on Thermo LC/MS-MS Trip Quad system.
• The analyst implements and validates published methods for use in the laboratory.
• Designs, develops and validates new methods using appropriate LC/MS/MS techniques.
• Prepares detailed reports on status of current projects
• Maintains careful records of experimental observations
• Provides technical guidance to other employees.
• Preform data analysis
• Plans and performs work to meet deadlines and expected turn-around times.
• Performs routine diagnosis, troubleshooting and maintenance of equipment.
• Conforming to laboratory QA/QC practices
• Field collections
• Mentoring interns
• Water/Tissue Extractions
• Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications/Requirements
• B.S degree or higher in Analytical Chemistry; other degrees will be considered with appropriate experience
• Minimum two (2) years of hands on experience working with LC/MS-MS and familiar with Thermo Fisher TraceFinder and Xcalibur.
• High level of experience in Mass Spectroscopy and comprehensive Chromatographic analysis
• Strong computer skills and excellent organizational and robust verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven experiment design skills and instrumental skills
• Ability to multi-task, organized, detail oriented, and possesses excellent problem solving capabilities; will have good time management capabilities and be able to work independently of supervision and work well with other analysts on the team.
• Ability to take ownership for meeting goals and objectives; willing to be accountable for own decisions, and willing to give 100%. Able to look for new ways to accomplish objectives
• Proficient English verbal and written communication skills with the ability to communicate well with staff, management, and clients in a professional manner.
• High energy level, confidence and ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work evening and weekends when necessary to meet goals.
• Strong commitment to quality and integrity.
• U.S. citizenship or foreign citizen’s U.S. work permit appropriate for the work is required
Special Qualifications:
1. Some knowledge of Karenia brevis (Florida Red Tide) preferred but not required
2. Some knowledge of natural toxin chemistry
3. Ability to work autonomously
4. Very organized with great attention to detail
5. Willing to work with groups from other institutions
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 July 24, 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.
Information and Data Coordinator
Mote is hiring an Information and Data Coordinator for the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation: Marine Science Laboratory Alliance Center for Excellence (LSAMP MarSci-LACE). MarSci-LACE is a 3-year National Science Foundation funded project with the goal to help increase underrepresented minority participation in Marine STEM fields through research at the undergraduate level.
Under the supervision of the Project Director, the Information and Data Coordinator will be responsible for the collection of data related to grant objectives and requirements, data and information security, assisting in interpretation and ensuring adherence to MML procedures and grant requirements. This position will be responsible for all data management processes, collection and storage of research and project information. This includes working with sensitive and restricted information, transforming raw data into usable formats for analysis and external communication, and working with project stakeholders to ensure that information products are appropriately prepared. The Information and Data Coordinator will work with the Project Coordinator to create visual and easily interpretable products which will be disseminated to stakeholders and the public. The Information and Data Coordinator will also assist the Project Coordinator in developing information to maintain an online presence for the project and assist in project evaluation. This position will be responsible for budget information tracking and assist with preparing reports. The duties of this position will be varied and require a well-rounded skill set.
Responsibilities include:
Oversee data and information collection processes, and ensuring processes are continually advancing to match the needs of the program
Provide support to grant staff to resolve information collection issues
Identify new data points to improve and enhance analytics and reporting of the program
Lead team’s ability to manage information collection and adhere to data management best practices
Prepare reports and the compilation of periodic program statistics, data reports and grant reporting requirements
Participates in leadership meetings sharing programmatic updates and resources
Assist in the designing and administration of assessment tools for data collection related to research
Assist with qualitative and quantitative data collection related to the MarSci-LACE research
Ethical handling of sensitive information and records related to human participants
Communicate with a variety of audiences, stakeholders, and grant staff
Assisting with website, social media and other online content and updates
Assist in the design and creation of marketing materials, publications and informative reports
Assist with the budget tracking and associated budget processes
Assisting with the continued refinement of program based on new data
Participation in grant activities for students, mentors, evaluators, partners and staff
Other duties as assigned
Working Hours: MarSci-LACE Information and Data Coordinator is a full-time, and is scheduled typically Mon-Fri with occasional evening and weekend work requirements.
Minimum Requirements:
Bachelor's degree
At least 5 years in project management, program coordination or data/information collection and interpretation
Strong computer skills
U.S. citizenship or foreign citizen U.S. work permit appropriate for the work
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: The MarSci-LACE Information and Data Coordinator position requires strong organizational skills; the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment and a proactive, solutions-based approach. Our ideal candidate is honest, caring, and professional with a tireless work ethic and a contagious, positive energy. They are a giving team member, a creative problem solver, and an enthusiastic collaborator who believes deeply in Mote and its mission, as well as the goals of this project. This candidate will possess outstanding communication skills, poise, and confidence, skilled in written and oral communication with the ability to represent Mote Marine Laboratory and this project to a variety of audiences. We expect the highest ethical standards, personal integrity, intelligence, good humor, resilience, energy, and spirit.
Hiring Conditions: The hiring of a successful candidate for this position is conditional on a background check within 2 weeks of start date.
To Apply Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file, 1) a cover letter, 2) resume, and 3) a statement outlining why you feel diversity in STEM is important and 4) the names and contact information for three references before 5pm July 31, 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. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt; this position will remain open until filled.
Coral Restoration Postdoctoral Researcher
Primary Function: The Coral Restoration Postdoctoral Researcher will primarily be responsible for coordinating and overseeing the Coral Restoration Program’s day to day activities, including conducting research on restoration science, managing the implementation of coral propagation within our land-based nursery, outplanting, monitoring and reporting.
Primary Duties:
Assist in managing Mote’s coral restoration efforts, specifically focused on utilizing land-based nurseries and microfragmentation processes.
Be a leader in Mote’s coral restoration efforts by providing guidance, perspective and initiative for future cutting edge technologies and applications to keep Mote within the forefront of restoration science
Oversee Mote’s coral restoration initiatives funded by various Mote funding sources
Represent Mote’s Coral Restoration Program within workshops, partner meetings, and collaborative initiatives.
Oversee data management of the coral restoration outplanting deliverables and research projects within the scope of funded projects
Conduct data analyses, create quarterly reports, and publish peer-reviewed articles on coral restoration science
Oversee permit applications and permit reports associated with Mote’s Coral Restoration Program
Write grants for additional financial support that further Mote’s coral restoration efforts
Additional duties, as assigned, related to the daily operation of a full service marine laboratory, including outreach and education activities as needed.
Minimum Qualifications or Requirements:
Ph.D. degree in the marine or biological sciences from an accredited college or university by start date.
Ability to obtain a valid Florida driver's license.
Ability to obtain AAUS dive certification
Ability to be an adaptable and collegial member of team, self-motivated and complete assigned tasks in a timely manner.
U.S. Citizenship or Foreign Citizen U.S. Work Permit Approved
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Experience with aquaculture systems.
Experience in stony coral husbandry.
Experience in conducting coral restoration research
Ability to secure funding through competitive grants or philanthropic sources
Experience operating vessels up to 25ft (USCG Captain’s License preferred).
Ability to identify Florida stony corals.
Ability to work outdoors, for long hours, in tropical climate.
Lift heavy objects or equipment up to 50 lbs required.
Normal hours are 8 hour work days M-F; however, weekend and evening hours may be required at times.
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 August 15, 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.
Salary will be commensurate with experience
Review of applications will begin immediately with the position expected to start prior to December 31, 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.
