Careers

Coral Biology

The Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (ASU BIOS) is a U.S. not-for-profit marine research and educational organization based in Bermuda. For over 120 years ASU BIOS has been committed to seeking and sharing fundamental knowledge of the oceans and complex environmental issues through exploration, hands-on programs, cutting-edge technology, and state-of-the-art research methods. ASU BIOS is part of the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Lab at Arizona State University (ASU), whose focus is to design options to sustain global habitability and improve well-being for all humankind.

A Postdoctoral position is available at ASU Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (ASU BIOS) to work on a project titled “Enhancing coral resilience against climate warming.” This project will combine in-situ and ex-situ experiential work with corals in Bermuda and Thailand and will assess to what extent thermal stress exposure can provide beneficial stress conditioning. A number of physiological traits and molecular responses will be measured to define phenotypic plasticity and underlying mechanisms of stress conditioning. 

The postdoc will primarily be supervised by Dr. Yvonne Sawall (ASU BIOS) and will contribute to overall project management and student supervision, conduct ex-situ and in-situ experimental work, conduct laboratory measurements, attend conferences, and contribute to data analysis, manuscript writing and preparation of proposals. This project is a collaborative project with Dr. Marlene Wall (GEOMAR, Germany / Univ. of Vienna, Austria). Together, the PIs will be committed to maximizing the research experience of the postdoc and to ensuring they foster the professional skills required for long-term career success.

Further information about the Marine Benthic Ecology and Ecophysiology (MABEE) lab: bios.asu.edu/research/projects/marine-benthic-ecology-and-ecophysiology

Instagram: instagram.com/mabeelab/

• PhD in biology, marine biology, or a closely related field.
• Experience in molecular biology and bioinformatics and coral or invertebrate biology preferred.
• Ability to perform experimental work required.
• An active research diving certificate (AAUS or similar) is beneficial.

The position is for 2 years, with the possibility of extension based on performance and available funding. Salary includes a generous benefits package. This position will be based in Bermuda; however, the Postdoc may also conduct field work in Thailand. Lab-based work will be conducted at ASU BIOS and at the ASU Tempe campus in Arizona and will also include supervising students in lab protocols. Ideally the postdoc would begin in Fall 2026. 

To apply please submit electronically a cover letter outlining your motivation for applying for this position and relevant experience, detailed curriculum vitae including peer-reviewed publications, and the contact details of three references. The applicant package should be emailed to [email protected]; and [email protected] (please reference the job title in the subject line of your email).

ASU BIOS is an equal opportunity employer with a drug-free workplace and excellent learning environment.

The Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (ASU BIOS) is accepting applications for Chief Engineer for the oceanographic research vessel Atlantic Explorer. R/V Atlantic Explorer is part of the Academic Research Fleet (ARF) with operational funding from the U.S. National Science Foundation. Candidates should have an appreciation for science and an interest in a non-commercial maritime career within the academic and research community.

The successful candidate will direct all shipboard engineering activities of the R/V Atlantic Explorer while on watch and accept full responsibility for the proper operation of all shipboard systems. Additionally, the Chief Engineer will work closely with the Port Captain, Port Engineer, and Lead Marine Technician.

• Overseeing the maintenance and operation of select deck and safety equipment, cargo handling gear, all machinery as well as all engineering-related components, equipment, gear, and tools.
• Effectively maintaining, operating, and/or supervising all engineering-related aspects of the R/V Atlantic Explorer such as operating the ship’s crane, A-Frames, trawl winches, instrument winches, and CTD winch as necessary to accomplish each specific scientific operation in a safe and efficient manner.
• Actively participating in the servicing, repair or replacement of engineering-related systems and machinery on the R/V Atlantic Explorer and interfacing directly with the vessel’s Master for repairs on equipment deemed critical to the safe navigation or operation of the vessel.
• Actively participating in all scheduled and impromptu shipyard periods, drydocking events, and other unplanned maintenance events by preparing the vessel when such events arise, assisting shipyard workers, service technicians, equipment representatives, and external maintenance personnel in such situations, and assisting and supervising the vessel’s engineering crew in such circumstances.

• Assuming overall responsibility for cleanliness and organization of engine-room and other machinery spaces.

   

• Minimum two years’ experience sailing as an engineering officer on research vessels, or workboats of comparable size and power to the R/V Atlantic Explorer (171’ LOA, 299 GRT/861 ITC, 1880 HP/1402 kW), or equivalent experience in the marine industry with significant supervisory and budgetary responsibilities.
• U.S. Coast Guard License as either Third Assistant Engineer Unlimited of Motor Vessels or Assistant Engineer-Limited of Motor Vessels or Designated Duty Engineer Unlimited of Motor Vessels combined with the requisite STCW endorsement(s) corresponding to the national license(s) held.
• Equivalent foreign engineering license(s) combined with requisite STCW endorsement(s) are acceptable.

• College degree or equivalent training in marine engineering, other engineering subject, or allied field.

   

• Good working knowledge of oceanographic research vessels, or comparable, specialized vessels such as seismic ships, cable laying ships, dive boats, or workboats in general, and U.S. Coast Guard regulations.

• Experience with shipyard periods and vessel refits, including strong knowledge of ABS standards and rules.

   

• Applicants must be able to work effectively and respectfully with a diverse complement of crew, technicians, faculty, students, and scientists from around the world and be able to work in a remote research environment.
• Computer literacy, proven organizational skills, excellent communication skills and ability to multi-task required.

If you wish for further information prior to applying, please contact Deborah Moran, Marine Operations Coordinator, ([email protected] ), tel: 441-297-1880, ext. 233 or 646-547-1788, ext. 233. 

Interested candidates should email their applications including a cover letter, resume and three references to [email protected]. 

ASU BIOS is an equal opportunity employer with a drug-free workplace and excellent learning environment.