OPPORTUNITY: Phytoplankton Lab Supervisor

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 and Virginia Department of Environmental Quality’s 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 microscopically analyzing, integrating, and submitting 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 the Chesapeake Bay Program and other research projects. 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. Minimum qualifications include a Master’s degree in Biological Sciences, Oceanography, or other related Ecological and Environmental Sciences. Five years of experience in taxonomic identification can replace the MS degree requirement above.

For inquiries, email Margie Mulholland or Peter Bernhardt.