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How much do coral research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for coral research in the United States is $28.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $35.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is coral research?

Coral research is the scientific study of coral species, their ecosystems, and the environmental factors that affect their health and survival. This field involves investigating coral biology, reproduction, genetics, and the impacts of threats like climate change, pollution, and ocean acidification. Researchers often work in labs and in the field, such as on coral reefs, to understand how to protect and restore these vital marine environments. The findings from coral research help inform conservation efforts and policy decisions to safeguard coral reefs around the world.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a coral researcher?

To thrive as a Coral Researcher, you need a strong background in marine biology, ecology, and scientific research methods, typically supported by an advanced degree in marine sciences or a related field. Familiarity with scuba diving, underwater survey equipment, GIS mapping tools, and data analysis software is commonly required, along with relevant certifications such as scientific diving credentials. Excellent observational skills, attention to detail, and strong teamwork and communication abilities set top candidates apart in this field. These skills ensure accurate data collection, effective collaboration, and impactful contributions to coral conservation and marine ecosystem health.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in coral research, and how are these typically addressed?

Professionals in coral research often encounter challenges such as conducting fieldwork in remote or harsh marine environments, securing funding for long-term studies, and managing the logistics of international collaboration. Additionally, coral researchers must adapt to rapidly changing ocean conditions due to climate change, which can affect research outcomes and project continuity. These challenges are typically addressed through strong teamwork, effective collaboration with local organizations, and by staying updated on innovative research methodologies and conservation technologies.

What is the difference between Coral Research vs Marine Biologist?

AspectCoral ResearchMarine Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Marine Science, Marine Biology, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Marine Biology, Marine Science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, coral reefs, field stationsResearch labs, ocean environments, field stations
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, environmental agencies, NGOsUniversities, research institutions, government agencies
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding specialized coral research rolesBroader marine biology careers

Coral Research focuses specifically on studying coral ecosystems, their health, and conservation strategies, often involving targeted fieldwork and lab analysis. Marine Biologists have a broader scope, studying various marine organisms and ecosystems, including coral reefs. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in specialization and work focus.

How to become a coral researcher?

To become a coral researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in marine biology, environmental science, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or Ph.D. for advanced research roles. Developing skills in underwater research, data analysis, and using tools like SCUBA gear and laboratory equipment is essential, along with gaining experience through internships or fieldwork.
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coral research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Coral Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,436 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate-Coral Cell and Molecular Biology

Kansas City, MO • On-site

Stowers Institute
Scientific Research and Development Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Stowers Instituteexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Coral reefs face unprecedented environmental change, yet the lack of robust genetic tools has limited mechanistic discovery. The Gibson Laboratory at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research invites applications for an outstanding Postdoctoral Research Associate to develop and apply next-generation genome engineering technologies in the reef-building coral Acropora millepora . This is a unique opportunity to establish one of the first comprehensive CRISPR-based genome engineering platforms in a rapidly emerging marine model while addressing fundamental questions in coral development, symbiosis, regeneration, biomineralization, and environmental adaptation. The successful candidate will help create the genetic toolkit that enables the next generation of mechanistic studies in reef-building corals.
The postdoctoral fellow will lead efforts to develop and implement CRISPR-based gene editing in our laboratory-based population of Acropora millepora , including targeted gene knockouts, knock-ins, transgenic reporter generation, and other advanced functional genomic approaches. These technologies will be integrated with quantitative microscopy, developmental biology, genomics, and single-cell and spatial transcriptomics to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying coral development and physiology. The position offers substantial intellectual freedom and opportunities to establish independent research directions while helping transform corals into genetically tractable experimental systems.
The Gibson Laboratory focuses on the biology of anthozoan cnidarians, combining developmental biology, evolutionary biology, molecular genetics, functional genomics, and computational biology to understand how complex biological systems evolve and function. Our goal is to build transformative experimental tools that enable fundamental biological discovery while advancing the broader coral research community.
The successful candidate will join an exceptionally collaborative research environment with access to world-class core facilities in genomics, proteomics, advanced microscopy, bioinformatics, and aquatic animal husbandry. The Stowers Institute provides long-term institutional support for ambitious, high-risk, high-reward science, allowing investigators to pursue innovative research with exceptional technical and scientific resources.
Qualifications
Applicants should have:
  • A Ph.D. in developmental biology, genetics, molecular biology, genomics, cell biology, marine biology, or a closely related discipline.
  • An outstanding publication record demonstrating scientific creativity and productivity.
  • Experience in one or more of the following areas: CRISPR genome engineering, molecular genetics, developmental biology, genomics, microscopy, embryology, computational biology, or marine biology.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Prior experience with corals is not required. Candidates with strong backgrounds in genome engineering, functional genomics, stem cell biology, developmental genetics, or related disciplines are especially encouraged to apply.
The Gibson Laboratory
The Gibson Laboratory investigates the genetic and cellular mechanisms that underlie animal development and evolution, with a particular emphasis on cnidarians. Our research integrates functional genetics, genomics, quantitative imaging, and evolutionary biology to study developmental patterning, regeneration, symbiosis, biomineralization, and environmental adaptation.
The laboratory has pioneered functional genetic technologies in cnidarians, including CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, shRNA-mediated gene knockdown, and transgenic methodologies in the sea anemone Nematostella vectensis . Building on this foundation, we are extending these approaches to reef-building corals to establish transformative genome engineering technologies for Acropora millepora .
Application
Applicants should submit:
  • Cover letter describing research interests and career goals
  • Curriculum vitae including publication list
  • Brief summary of previous research accomplishments
  • Contact information for three references

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
The Stowers Institute for Medical Research is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse scientific community. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

Apply