Assistant Research Professor

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Position Summary:

Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute (HBOI) invites applications for a non-tenure track Assistant Research Professor position focusing on Aquaculture Genetics and Bioinformatics. This position is located in Ft. Pierce, Fl.

 

Research Summary

Research includes independent and collaborative studies aimed at developing broodstocks for aquaculture species by determining the genetic and phenotypic parameters that define complex traits such as growth, disease resistance, and meat yield and quality using quantitative genetic, genome-enabled analyses, and genomic selection.  Breeding programs are an essential resource for broad and complex studies aimed at understanding basic biological mechanisms affecting economically important traits.  The research contributes information used in commercial and in-house selection programs and requires interaction with industry stakeholders to facilitate the development of genetically superior lines of aquaculture species.   

 

Research Objectives/Responsibilities

·         Lead the broodstock development programs to characterize novel traits, select elite germplasm, and make germplasm available for scientific research, to private aquatic animal producers of food fish, and to state governmental workers involved in fish and wildlife enhancement.

·         Specific research objectives include: (1) identify, characterize, and quantify genetic and phenotypic variation in complex, economically-important traits such as growth, disease resistance, meat yield and quality, and reproductive output; (2) evaluate genetic and environmental determinants for correlated variables and related traits; (3) develop and test innovative approaches for incorporating molecular-based information into breeding and selection schemes; and (4) enhancement of techniques for storage, retention, and distribution of genetically improved germplasm. 

·         Research methodology includes quantitative genetic analyses, bioinformatic analyses and transcriptome data. Research also involves basic physiology and biochemical assessment techniques, and comparative genomics approaches to identify biological mechanisms affecting economically important traits. The research is expected to result in the development and application of techniques that expedite genetic improvement of aquaculture species for disease resistance, product yield and quality, and reproduction traits. 

·         The research requires a broad, general knowledge of the biology and culture of aquaculture species, and structure of the industry and breeding programs therein.  A thorough professional knowledge of genetics is essential, specifically the statistical analyses of complex, quantitative traits and the utilization of these analyses to design selection and breeding programs for strain improvement. 

 

Teaching Opportunities

While this is primarily a research-focused position, there are opportunities to teach graduate and undergraduate courses

Minimum Qualifications:

• Earned doctorate in Genetics for animal breeding, Aquaculture genetics, bioinformatics, or closely related relevant field at time of application.

Preferred Qualifications
• Ability to define research problems, perform required background investigations, develop appropriate experimental and statistical designs, execute research plans, organize and evaluate results, and report findings.
• Must be able to identify research needs and display ingenuity and originality in the application of concepts and techniques from the major areas of emphasis to research studies.
• Ability to work cooperatively with University and extramural partners on research that addresses contemporary and emerging issues in ocean science.

Salary:

Commensurate with Experience

College or Department:

Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute

Location:

Harbor Branch (HBOI)

Work Days and Hours:

N/A

Application Deadline:

2026-03-01

Special Instructions to Applicant:

This position is open until filled and may close without prior notice.

This position is subject to funding.

All applicants must apply electronically to the currently posted position on the Office of Human Resources' job website (https://fau.edu/jobs) by completing the required employment application for this recruitment and submitting the related documents.

Required Documents:
FAU’s Career Page permits the attachment of required/requested documentation.

PLEASE NOTE: A maximum of five (5) documents may be attached to your application. If more than five (5) documents are required for submission, please combine additional documents into a single attachment to not exceed the maximum permitted.

The site permits the attachment of required/requested documentation. Candidates wishing full consideration are to provide the following:

- Cover letter (required)
- CV (required)
- Statement of research focus including plans for collaborative work with HBOI faculty and generating external funding (required).

- Teaching philosophy (optional)

Transcripts:
The selected candidate for this position is required to submit an official transcript sent directly from the institution for the Provost’s credential file prior to the first day of employment. Similarly, for degrees from outside the United States, the evaluation by an organization belonging to the National Association of Credential Evaluation (NACES), with an indication of the documents the evaluation was prepared from (official transcripts, diplomas, dissertation abstracts) is required for the Provost’s credential file prior to the first day of employment. Transcripts must be issued to Florida Atlantic University, not to the individual applicant.

Background Screening:
Selected candidates must successfully complete and pass all employment screenings prior to the start of employment. Employment screenings may include a criminal background check (level I and level II), motor vehicle check, credit check, reference checks, alcohol, and drug screening check.

Accommodations:
Individuals requiring accommodation, please call 561-297-3057. 711