• Biomaterial Curation Technician

  • OVERVIEW

    Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences is seeking a Biomaterial Curation Technician to join the Provasoli-Guillard National Center for Marine Algae and Microbiota (NCMA). This laboratory position supports NCMA's living algal collection and the processing and storage of biomaterials submitted in connection with external client patent filings.

    The salary is commensurate with experience and falls within the pay band $22.89-$32.27 hourly, accompanied by a generous benefits package that includes healthcare, retirement contributions, and paid time off.

    POSITION SUMMARY

    Working with the NCMA Director and curator team, the technician will maintain, preserve, document, store, and distribute biological materials. The position is divided between living algal cultures and patent-deposit materials, including algae, microorganisms, agricultural seeds, and plant tissues. Responsibilities include careful biological handling, accurate record maintenance, communication with clients, and protection of confidential information.

    PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

    • Algal curation - approximately 45%. Prepare media; aseptically transfer cultures; monitor growth, morphology, viability, and contamination; maintain active and backup stocks; and document provenance, passage history, storage location, and quality-control results.
    • Patent biomaterial curation - approximately 45%. Communicate with depositors; receive and accession materials; verify condition and documentation; maintain chain-of-custody records; conduct material-appropriate viability testing; preserve and store deposits; and provide status information.
    • Collection operations - approximately 10%. Support inventory reconciliation, storage monitoring, equipment checks, standard operating procedures, shipment preparation, sterilization and disposal, and assigned curation or research projects.
    • Alarm response. Participate in the NCMA/Center for Algal Innovation alarm-response rotation. This after-hours responsibility is compensated separately.

    MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

    • A BA/BS degree, or equivalent education and experience, in biology, microbiology, phycology, marine or environmental science, biotechnology, or a related field.
    • Laboratory training or experience with aseptic technique and basic microscopy, including media preparation, maintenance of living cultures, and routine viability and contamination assessments.
    • Demonstrated accuracy in laboratory recordkeeping and electronic data entry, including experience with databases, cloud-based systems, or laboratory information management systems.
    • Strong organizational and time-management skills, including the ability to learn protocols, manage time-sensitive activities, troubleshoot routine problems, and work independently and collaboratively.
    • Strong written, oral, and client-service communication skills, with the ability to safeguard confidential information and comply with laboratory safety and biosafety requirements.

    ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: The technician must follow good laboratory practices and NCMA procedures; maintain accurate and timely records; assist with equipment, supplies, and laboratory organization; and promptly report deviations, equipment problems, storage issues, or safety concerns. The position requires appropriate confidentiality, access control, traceability, and chain-of-custody documentation.

    HOW TO APPLY

    Submit a cover letter, resume or curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references through our online application portal. Applications received by November 27, 2026 will receive full consideration. The position will remain open until 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 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 outlining your motivation and relevant experience for this position
    • A detailed curriculum vitae or resume specifically highlighting experience in the stated requirements
    • Contact information for three references
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  • Please check the box below to agree to the following statement.

    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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