Volunteer Duke Marine Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Duke University:

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Job Title: Research Technician III (Temporary, 1-Year Appointment)

Job Code: 0691 | FLSA: Non-Exempt | Job Level: 10 | Job Family: 05

Work Location: Duke University Marine Lab, Beaufort, NC 28516

Projected Start Date: July 2026

At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As a Research Technician III in the Silliman Lab, you will join a collaborative research and training environment that values inclusivity, equity, and excellence in science. You will help build use-inspired, place-based conservation solutions that benefit both people and nature across coastal ecosystems-salt marshes, seagrasses, oyster reefs, coastal forests, and living shorelines.

The Silliman Lab operates in partnership with Duke RESTORE and the Duke Wetland and Coast Center, integrating field experiments, observational studies, and synthesis approaches to generate predictive understanding across systems and scales, with a strong emphasis on conservation and ecosystem restoration.

Step into a role that blends hands-on coastal fieldwork, laboratory systems support, and day-to-day research operations. You will take ownership of core logistics for seagrass aquaculture and restoration ("seagrass farm"), while also supporting multiple ongoing projects across the lab. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in dynamic environments, enjoys troubleshooting, and is motivated to grow new technical and organizational skills.

Field Research Activities (35%)

• Coordinate and support logistics for seagrass seed production, storage, and out-planting (scheduling, procurement, site support).
• Set up and monitor field experiments evaluating seagrass seed production and planting techniques.
• Collect data in coastal systems (including seagrass beds, salt marshes, and oyster reefs) using established protocols.
• Collect, process, and document samples; maintain accurate records of procedures, data, and results.
• Train to operate and drive a skiff for lab research and Duke RESTORE activities.

Lab Research Activities (30%)

• Maintain and monitor seagrass seed storage systems and associated aquaculture infrastructure.
• Set up and support laboratory experiments and sample-processing workflows.
• Prepare summaries of field and lab activities; deliver regular updates and contribute to reports.
• Perform data entry and quality control; assist with basic analyses and visualizations for publications and reports.
• Support lab members with field and lab components of their projects; provide coordination support to students or junior personnel when needed.
• Participate in Duke classes, meetings, and training sessions that build skills relevant to the role.
• Provide regular communication: submit a monthly report to Dr. Silliman and meet weekly.

General Lab Maintenance & Operations (35%)

• Maintain lab spaces to support safe, compliant, and organized work (cleanliness, organization, safety protocols).
• Track inventories of supplies and equipment; coordinate ordering, receiving, and basic budget tracking.
• Manage shared resources (equipment scheduling; coordinate maintenance and repairs).
• Coordinate use and upkeep of research vehicles, boats, and trailers (inspections, servicing, cleaning).
• Support project administration (purchasing, reimbursements, permits, and reporting requirements).
• Assist with onboarding and coordination of students, volunteers, interns, and visiting researchers.
• Maintain organized records of lab activities, protocols, and data workflows.
• Participate in lab meetings, training, and professional development activities.

Required Qualifications

Education/Training/Certifications

Bachelor's degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology, ecology, marine science, environmental science, or a related field.

Valid driver's license and ability to travel to field sites.

Experience

Two (2) years of relevant research experience (a related master's degree may substitute 1:1 for required experience).

Preferred: experience supporting fieldwork logistics, managing research infrastructure, and/or contributing to laboratory operations.

Required Skills

Ability to manage multiple responsibilities across field, laboratory, and administrative settings.

Ability to work independently, troubleshoot operational challenges, and maintain attention to detail.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Familiarity with basic field and laboratory procedures and ability to follow established protocols.

Ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment and coordinate across diverse teams.

Ability to work in variable outdoor conditions for extended periods; ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and move between buildings.

Ability to drive small research boats (or willingness to learn) and drive a work truck.

Preferred Skills

Experience mentoring or supervising students or volunteers.

Familiarity with boats, trailers, and coastal field operations.

Experience managing shared spaces, equipment, or research infrastructure.

Ability to co-write and/or write scientific papers.

Local knowledge of coastal ecosystems and habitats.

Essential Physical Job Functions

Fieldwork can be physically demanding. You must be able to hike to field sites, spend hours outdoors under variable conditions, and be willing to learn to operate a research skiff. Flexibility to work early mornings, evenings, and occasional travel is required.

Duke University is a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunities without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion (including pregnancy and related conditions), sexual orientation, or military status. All members of our community share responsibility for upholding these values.

Temporary, 1-Year Appointment.

Apply now and help us advance coastal conservation and restoration through bold, collaborative science.