Job Information
Texas A&M University Postdoctoral Research Associate in Corpus Christi, Texas
Job Title
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Agency
Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi
Department
Harte Research Institute
Proposed Minimum Salary
Commensurate
Job Location
Corpus Christi, Texas
Job Type
Staff
Job Description
TAMU-CC is a dynamic university designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) with approximately 11,000 students from 47 states and 54 foreign nations. We employ over 1,400 full-time and 2,000 part-time Islanders (including students/GAs). The University attracts highly talented faculty and staff and offers an array of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including doctoral programs. As a member of the Texas A&M University System, TAMU-CC benefits from a range of resources, increased visibility and influence, and opportunities to collaborate in mutually beneficial ways with peers across member institutions and associated agencies.
TAMU-CC’s beautiful campus is located on a 240-acre island on Corpus Christi Bay and was ranked #1 College by the Sea by Best College Reviews. Our natural setting is enhanced by its modern, attractive, and state-of-the-art classroom buildings and support facilities.
Learn more information here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EwQR4HbGJu0) !
PURPOSE
The Postdoctoral Researcher position at the Coral Reef and Ocean Health Research Group of the Harte Research Institute (HRI) is integral to the development and operation of HRI’s research initiatives. This role involves conducting state-of-the-art work on coral reef ecosystems. The Postdoctoral Researcher will conduct research focused on key ecological processes that influence reef resilience and health, including (i) responses of coral reef organisms to environmental stressors, (ii) interactions within complex reef ecosystems, (iii) contributions to ecosystem stability and recovery, and (iv) impacts of natural and anthropogenic disturbances. They will also apply a range of techniques, including field-based ecological assessments, molecular and microbiological analyses, intensive experimental work, and statistical modeling.
This research will be undertaken in a highly collaborative academic environment with an emphasis on training, interdisciplinary approaches, and publication of results. Additionally, the Postdoctoral Researcher will work with international partners to build capacity for coral reef research, standardize monitoring methodologies, and support citizen scientist initiatives aimed at enhancing community engagement in coral reef conservation.
DESCRIPTION
Functional Area 1: Research
Percent Effort: 70%
Develop and conduct experiments that investigate key ecological processes influencing reef resilience and health, including responses to environmental stressors, larval ecology, species interactions, and ecosystem stability.
Extract, collect, and compile data for analysis and present results in reports and publications.
Contribute to research initiatives to enhance experimental, theoretical, and observational techniques.
Prepare and present scientific papers, reports, and presentations on research outcomes.
Communicate research findings with funding agencies.
Foster collaborative teams and maintain national and international research partnerships.
Educate users on technological and methodological advances.
Functional Area 2: Project Administration
Percent Effort: 20%
Lead and assist in creating research proposals to maximize capabilities and impact.
Prepare grants for numerous funding agencies.
Assist in grant reporting and Grant Management and Research Communication.
Create research and collaboration plans that align with strategic goals of the lab.
Maintain communication and collaboration with partners.
Support and mentor undergraduate and graduate students in their thesis and dissertation projects.
Functional Area 3: Other
Percent Effort: 10%
Perform other duties as assigned.
Acquire experience to promote professional development of themselves and others
QUALIFICATIONS
Ph.D. in Marine Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field.
Strong background in coral reef ecology, marine ecosystem dynamics, or related research areas.
Experience designing and conducting field and laboratory-based ecological research.
Proficiency in statistical analysis, data visualization, and modeling using software such as R, Python, or GIS tools.
Demonstrated ability to publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals.
Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to present scientific results to varied audiences.
Strong collaborative skills and experience working in interdisciplinary and international research teams.
Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects effectively
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
1–2 years of experience in writing, preparing, and submitting grants.
In-depth knowledge of coral biology, reproduction, physiology, and ecology.
Experience in coral larval biology, including larval rearing and settlement processes.
Strong track record of published research in reputable national and international journals.
Current SCUBA certification with AAUS Scientific Diver and Nitrox status.
Flexibility to work beyond standard hours and on weekends when needed.
Ability to read, write, and speak Spanish and English fluently.
SALARY: Up to $66,000.00 /annually, approximately.
$ 5,500 /monthly.
BENEFITS (rules, policies, eligibility apply)
From our generous benefits package (https://www.tamucc.edu/human-resources/benefits/index.php) and professional development opportunities, to our retirement programs and our commitment to service excellence, the Island University is an engaging and rewarding place to work.
Insurance (https://assets.system.tamus.edu/files/benefits/website/BenefitsGuide.pdf)
Medical
$0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after university contribution ($920 value).
Up to 83% of premium covered by the university:
Employee and Spouse
Employee and Children
Employee and Family coverage
Dental & Vision
Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account
On-campus wellness opportunities (https://www.tamucc.edu/human-resources/benefits/wellness-resources.php)
Work Life Solutions:
Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and Legal Resources
Tuition Benefits: (https://www.tamucc.edu/human-resources/benefits/tuition/index.php)
Public Loan Forgiveness
Book scholarships
100% tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year (other rules may apply).
Retirement (https://www.tamucc.edu/human-resources/benefits/retirement-programs.php)
Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)
Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan
Time Off: (https://www.tamucc.edu/human-resources/time-off/index.php)
8+ hours of vacation paid time off every month.
8 hours of sick leave time off every month.
8 hours of paid time off for Birthday leave.
12-15 paid holidays each year.
All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.
Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer.