The ODU Research Foundation is seeking a Lab Supervisor to work under the ODU Phytoplankton Laboratory. The ODU Phytoplankton Laboratory analyzes freshwater and estuarine water samples for phytoplankton taxonomy and algal toxins. The laboratory acts as a regional resource and includes contracts to provide analyses for the Chesapeake Bay Program, the Virginia Department of Health harmful algal bloom response, and the Virginia Department of Health’s shellfish monitoring. The Laboratory is located in the Ocean and Physics Building on the main campus of Old Dominion University and contains a microscope suite as well as the facilities to conduct ELISA toxin screens. The laboratory helps to compile water quality information by collecting, integrating, analyzing and distributing freshwater and Chesapeake Bay water quality data. Specifically, the lab is responsible for harmful algal bloom Identification (e.g., cyanobacteria, dinoflagellates, and diatoms), cell counts and toxin analysis. The laboratory also provides full taxonomic identifications for Bay Program and other samples. The phycologist will receive samples from reported Harmful Algal Blooms, which aids in protecting Virginia’s coastal and inland waters, protecting public health, and supporting statewide initiatives to address harmful algal blooms. The candidate will also assist and participate in specialized research concerning water quality factors that may control the initiation of harmful algal blooms. The candidate will be involved in the review of analytical procedures and methodologies, reviewing, interpreting and evaluating data, and collecting, compiling and disseminating data for monitoring programs and harmful algal bloom responses. The candidate will attend and present material at internal and external meetings and conferences, prepare reports and other materials including charts, graphs, for phytoplankton community assessments, and function as a scientific consultant in areas pertaining to phytoplankton ecology and harmful algal blooms.
This position can also serve as a postdoctoral position.
REQUIREMENTS:
EDUCATION: Knowledge is normally acquired through 4 years of college, vocational or technical training resulting in a bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience.
EXPERIENCE: Two (2) years of experience in a field appropriate to the position. NOTE: A Doctorate degree in a discipline appropriate to the position may be substituted for two (2) years of experience indicated above. SPECIFIC KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES: Identification of phytoplankton taxonomy. Organization, familiarity with regulations regarding chain of custody for samples
PREFERRED SKILL SETS: Candidates with degrees and advanced degrees in the biological or environmental sciences. Strong understanding of harmful algal blooms, algal toxin analysis, microbiology, and limnology. Strong laboratory, computer, statistical analysis, interpersonal and public speaking skills are a plus.Please visit ODU Research Foundation website at http://researchfoundation.odu.edu; click on the employment tab and follow the link for position #24-043. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. AA/EOE/M/F/Disability/VETS/Drug FreeEquity Statement: It is the policy of Old Dominion University to provide equal employment, educational and social opportunities for all persons, without regard to race (or traits historically associated with race including hair texture, hair type, and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists), color, religion, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), national origin, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, disability, political affiliation, sexual orientation or genetic information. Minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
