Research Associate 2 – Shellfish Aquaculture

About the role

The Research Associate 2 supports shellfish aquaculture production, applied research, and restoration activities for Louisiana Sea Grant. Working at the LSU AgCenter Aquaculture Research Station, the associate will manage hatchery and nursery operations for oysters, ribbed mussels, and algae cultures.

Key responsibilities

• Produce and maintain oyster, mussel, and algae cultures following established protocols.
• Operate and maintain hatchery and nursery systems, including water quality monitoring.
• Perform larvae rearing tasks: tank cleaning, sorting, counting, and algal feed production.
• Collect biological samples, process data, and manage records.
• Support field research, restoration projects, stakeholder engagement, and educational programming.
• Read scientific literature and assist in manuscript preparation.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Fisheries, Aquaculture Management, Animal Sciences, or a related field.
• At least one year of relevant experience in aquaculture or hatchery operations.
• Valid driver’s license.

Required skills

• Hatchery and nursery system operation
• Microalgae culture and feed production
• Water quality monitoring
• Biological sampling and data management
• Equipment maintenance and laboratory techniques