Conservation Aquaculture Biologist

This position provides research technical expertise to the Commonwealth of Virginia related to freshwater mussel conservation and restoration activities throughout Atlantic Slope watersheds, with a primary focus on the South River restoration project.

• Conduct research and provide technical expertise on freshwater mussel conservation and restoration activities
• Collaborate with federal and state natural resource agencies and related NGOs to design and implement laboratory and field research
• Develop and maintain propagation systems for freshwater mussels
• Monitor and analyze data on released mussels and juveniles
• Assist with host fish collection, mussel broodstock collection, and tagging of mussels
• Work closely with biologists from the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

• Experience in fisheries or wildlife management, environmental science, or a related field with demonstrated experience in conservation aquaculture
• Experience working with freshwater mussels and/or fish propagation
• SCUBA certification or ability to obtain
• Boater safety certification or ability to obtain
• VA driver's license or ability to obtain

• Bachelor's degree in fisheries or wildlife management, environmental science, or a related field with demonstrated experience in conservation aquaculture
• Prior experience with freshwater mussels other than propagation, such as field-related work
• Experience leading independent research projects
• Experience leading field crews and/or managing aquaculture facilities or labs

The Commonwealth of Virginia is a comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world. We are dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity, and we offer a diverse range of programs and services to our citizens.

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.