Assistant Algae Curator

  • Assistant Algae Curator

  • OVERVIEW

    Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences invites applications for an Assistant Algae Curator. This position is part of the NCMA Curatorial Team and will be primarily responsible for curating a portion of NCMA’s algae collection.  While initial training will be provided by other curators, the successful applicant must be self-motivated in further developing the additional knowledge needed to successfully maintain the portion of the NCMA collection for which they are responsible.  Furthermore, being part of a curatorial team, this position requires the successful applicant to communicate effectively and frequently with the entire curatorial team to ensure successful curation of the entire NCMA collection.

     

    This position is a full time (37.5h/wk) position, with an ideal start date of 1 July 2026. Funding for this position will be for 2- years, with continuation based upon successful integration and continuation of funding. Salary will be in the range of $22.89-25.12/hr ($44,636- 48,984 per annum), commensurate with demonstrated relevant experience of the successful candidate, and consistent with Bigelow compensation guidelines. NCMA funding is provided by a recurring National Science Foundation grant, sales of starter cultures and various other NCMA financial sources, and the continuation of this position, as for all NCMA positions, is dependent upon continued funding.  The position comes with a generous benefits package, contributing significantly to total compensation, including health care, retirement contribution, and paid time off.

    RESPONSIBILITIES

    • The Algae Curator will ultimately have primary responsibility for curating about one-fourth of the perpetual algae collection (~450 strains), focused on microalgae with the potential to add curation of macroalgae.
    • The Algae Curator will be trained by current curators in NCMA activities which may include preparing media for the algae collection and customer products (e.g., prepared media and media kits), macroalgae cryopreservation, and testing the potential of current xenic strains for axenic growth.
    • The Algae Curator will be asked to assist with general NCMA laboratory duties, such as pre-loading of culture transfer racks, collection and filtration of seawater used for the NCMA collection and customer orders, and autoclaving culture discards.
    • The Algae Curator may be asked to assist with the duties of other NCMA personnel when those personnel are absent or if designated workload needs to be allocated temporarily due to project deadlines.
    • The Algae Curator is required to be part of the “Responding to Alarm” rotation. This requires the curator to respond to alarms, during their pre-scheduled intervals, arising from culture collection incubators being out of specification.
    • The Algae Curator is responsible for general lab management and good laboratory practice, including but not limited to: data recordkeeping and completion of specific project activities.
    • Reporting any potential or perceived violations of applicable laws, rules, or Laboratory policies to the immediate supervisor, the Human Resources Officer, or the Vice President for Research as appropriate.

     

    MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
    (education, knowledge, skills, abilities, experience)

    • Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in Botany, Biology/Marine Biology, or a very closely related field is required.
    • The position strongly prefers demonstrated experience in cell or tissue culture, especially with regard to aseptic techniques, and demonstrated experience in the culture and maintenance of microalgae. Consideration will be given for experience cultivating macroalgae.
    • The position requires excellent written and verbal skills, including an ability to conduct business professionally via the telephone, e-mail and in person.
    • The position requires knowledge and experience using computers, relational databases, word processing, Windows operating systems, e-mail, and other software applications.
    • Reliability is especially important because of an absolute need for timely delivery of cultures or culture products and the need to maintain good customer relations.
    • The position requires the ability to work both as an individual and as part of the curatorial team, to seamlessly transition work activities should the need arise. The applicant must have a high degree of integrity, particularly with regard to the financial aspects of the job.

    APPLY

    Applicants must submit the following to our online application portal:

    • A one-page cover letter describing interest in the position and why you feel you are the best applicant for the position.
    • A detailed curriculum vitae or resume specifically highlighting experience relevant to the stated requirements.
    • Contact information for three references

    For full consideration, the application should be received by 11:59 PM EDT Friday, April 24, 2026. Review of applicants will begin immediately thereafter. The search will continue until the position is filled.

    Individuals seeking more information about this position or needing to request an accommodation, please contact careers@bigelow.org or (207) 315-2567, ext. 119.

    WORKING AT BIGELOW LABORATORY

    Bigelow Laboratory is an inclusive community of scientists from around the world that welcomes and supports diverse opinions and cultures. Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences strives to maintain an environment that allows our employees to flourish through respectful, inclusive, and equitable treatment of others. We believe there is power in embracing the full diversity of humanity to advance science and are committed to supporting each other as individuals worthy of respect. Bigelow Laboratory is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

  • Format: (000) 000-0000.

  • Applicants should submit the following documents in a single, assembled PDF file:

    • A one-page cover letter describing interest in the position
    • A detailed curriculum vitae or resume
    • Contact information for three references
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    I certify that the facts set forth in this application for employment are true and complete. I understand that any false statements, omissions, or misrepresentations will constitute cause for the denial of employment or immediate dismissal. I authorize the employer to make an investigation of any of the facts set forth in this application and release the employer from any liability. The employer may contact any listed references on this application.

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