Research Assistant II (Bioacoustics and Sensory Biology)

Job Summary

Job Description

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) is seeking a motivated Research Assistant to support a diverse range of field and laboratory research activities in bioacoustics and sensory biology. This position will contribute to multidisciplinary research focused on understanding marine soundscapes, the effects of noise on marine life, and the sensory capabilities of marine organisms.

The successful candidate will work across multiple projects and research teams and should be comfortable operating in a dynamic environment that includes laboratory research, field operations, data analysis, and scientific outreach. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to a broad portfolio of research involving marine bioacoustics, sensory biology, acoustic ecology, field science, data science, and emerging analytical technologies while working alongside interdisciplinary research teams at WHOI.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Support acoustic studies investigating the effects of noise on marine life.

• Assist with coral reef soundscape studies and related acoustic data analyses.

• Support collection, organization, management, and quality control of research data.

• Conduct acoustic analyses, including acoustic calibration and soundscape analysis.

• Support machine learning analyses, particularly those involving acoustic and soundscape datasets.

• Assist with field research activities, including SCUBA diving, small boat operations, equipment deployment, and other field logistics.

• Support neurophysiological and electrophysiological experiments designed to measure the hearing abilities of marine fauna.

• Assist with animal handling, husbandry, and zoological research activities as needed.

• Contribute to the development, testing, and use of research tools and instrumentation.

• Support data management and analysis involving large and complex datasets.

• Assist with scientific outreach and related project activities.

• Work collaboratively with multiple research teams while also independently managing assigned responsibilities.

• Balance priorities and manage time effectively across several complementary projects.

• Adapt to changing research needs, field conditions, and project priorities.

Required Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s in Marine Science, Bioengineering, Biology, Engineering, or a related field.

• Demonstrated interest in and ability to contribute to interdisciplinary research spanning marine biology, bioacoustics, engineering, and data science.

• Ability and willingness to work in a variety of laboratory, field, and marine research environments, including conditions that may require flexibility in scheduling and work location.

Desired Experience

• Master’s degree in Marine Science, Bioengineering, Biology, Engineering, or a related field.

• Certified SCUBA diver with demonstrated diving proficiency and experience; AAUS certification is preferred.

• MATLAB and related scientific programming or coding experience.

• Acoustic analysis and bioacoustics experience.

• Experience conducting acoustic calibrations.

• Machine learning analysis, preferably involving acoustic or soundscape data.

• Experience working with large datasets and scientific data management.

• Small boat operation and related field research experience.

• Marine biology experience combined with engineering, instrumentation, or research tool development.

• Animal handling, husbandry, or zoological research experience.

• Neurophysiology or electrophysiology experience.

• Experience supporting field-based marine research.

• Experience working in dynamic research environments and across multiple research teams.

Additional Job Requirements

Salary Range: $24.53/hour - $31.54/hour

The salary range provided for this position reflects the expected minimum and maximum base pay for new hires. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as internal equity and market conditions. In addition to base salary, eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package.

WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.

EEO Statement

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. 

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.