Hiring 5 Positions: Molecular Ecologist, Aquatic Biologist, and Lab & Field Technicians | Great Lakes Fisheries - SUNY Oswego
The SUNY Oswego Aquatic Conservation (SOAC) Lab, led by Principal Investigator Dr. Nick Sard, is excited to announce that we are hiring for five full-time, benefited positions through the SUNY Research Foundation (RF). Our lab focuses on developing cutting-edge science to inform the conservation and management of Great Lakes fishes, working closely with a network of state, federal, and tribal agencies. We are seeking passionate, talented individuals to join our dynamic, rapidly growing team.
Review of applications for all positions will begin immediately and continue until the positions are filled.
1. RF Molecular Ecologist
This is a senior-level research role that provides scientific leadership for the lab's environmental nucleic acid projects. The successful candidate will spearhead the design, validation, and application of novel eDNA/eRNA markers to address key conservation challenges.
Key Responsibilities: Lead projects from concept to publication, manage advanced molecular analyses (qPCR, dPCR, metabarcoding) and bioinformatics pipelines (DADA2, QIIME2), mentor lab personnel, and work closely with agency partners.
Required Qualifications: A Master’s degree in Molecular Ecology, Genetics, or a related field with significant hands-on lab experience and expertise in the eDNA/eRNA workflow.
Preferred Qualifications: A Ph.D., a strong publication record, expertise in eRNA methods, and proficiency in R or Python.
Compensation: $60,000 - $90,000 annually, plus an excellent benefits package.
2. RF Aquatic Biologist - Lake Erie
This position will conduct and lead research to inform the restoration and conservation of native fish populations in Lake Erie, driven by the goals of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC).
Key Responsibilities: Design and execute lab and field-based experiments, integrating traditional methods (trawling, gillnetting) with advanced tools like molecular surveillance (eDNA/eRNA) and acoustic telemetry.
Required Qualifications: A Master’s degree in biology, fisheries, or ecology; OR a Bachelor’s degree in a related field with at least two years of relevant professional experience. Must have experience with aquatic field sampling.
Preferred Qualifications: A record of scientific writing, experience with experimental design, molecular ecology methods, statistical programming (R), and operating research vessels.
Compensation: $58,459 - $69,107 annually, plus an excellent benefits package.
3. RF Fisheries Technicians (2 positions available)
These are full-time, field-intensive positions responsible for executing time-sensitive research operations focused on native fish reproduction in the Great Lakes basin.
Key Responsibilities: Plan and execute field sampling campaigns; deploy and retrieve specialized equipment, such as egg and larval traps; operate research vessels (up to 26 ft); and assist with sample processing and equipment maintenance.
Required Qualifications: A Bachelor's degree in Fisheries, Aquatic Ecology, or a related field, 1-2 years of aquatic field research experience, and experience with boat operation and standard sampling techniques (e.g., electrofishing, netting).
Preferred Qualifications: Experience working on Great Lakes ecosystems and familiarity with native fish identification.
Compensation: $19 - $22 per hour ($37,050 - $42,900 annually), plus an excellent benefits package.
4. RF Lab Technician
This full-time position is a critical support role that forms the foundation of our lab's success. The role is primarily lab-based but includes opportunities for fieldwork.
Key Responsibilities: Precise execution of core molecular techniques including DNA extraction, PCR, Sanger sequencing, and next-gen library preparation (GT-seq, RAD-seq). Assist with lab management, including supply monitoring and organization of sample repositories.
Required Qualifications: A Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, or a related field, with hands-on experience in DNA extraction and PCR. Must have strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
Preferred Qualifications: Prior experience in a research lab setting, knowledge of conservation genetics principles, and proficiency with R or Python.
Compensation: $33,150 - $39,000 annually, plus an excellent benefits package.
To Apply
Please use the links below to submit your application materials. A complete application consists of a cover letter, a resume/CV, a statement on your commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, contact information for three professional references, and a copy of your transcripts.
Apply for RF Molecular Ecologist: https://oswego.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=193735
Apply for RF Aquatic Biologist: https://oswego.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=193493
Apply for RF Fisheries Technician: https://oswego.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=193747
Apply for RF Lab Technician: https://oswego.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=193870
The SUNY RF offers comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans as well as retirement options. Each position also includes generous paid time-off (PTO), sick leave, and 13 paid holidays each year. Please note that visa sponsorship is not available for these positions.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email the Search Chair, Lyndsie Collis, at lyndsie.collis@oswego.edu.
Positions will be open until filled, but application review will begin on October 31, 2025.