CFRD Research Scientist
The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of CFRD Research Scientist.
Location
Gulf Coast Research Laboratory
703 East Beach Drive
Ocean Springs, Mississippi, 39564
United States
Employment Status
Full Time
Posting Close Date
August 31, 2026
Special Instructions to Applicants
The University of Southern Mississippi
The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is a community of engaged citizens, operating as a public, student-centered, doctoral-granting research university serving Mississippi, the nation, and the world. The University is dedicated to scholarship and learning, integrating students at all levels in the creation and application of knowledge through excellence in teaching, research, creative activities, outreach, and service.
USM is among the 0.05% of institutions in the nation to earn the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education’s “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity” designation. Its expanding research enterprise includes experts in polymer science and engineering, cybersecurity, digital humanities, ocean science and engineering, nursing, large event venue safety and security, psychology, business and economic development, and more.
Gulf Coast Research Laboratory
This position will be located in Ocean Springs, MS at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, a marine laboratory featuring comprehensive research programs in coastal and marine biological sciences. Research program support includes state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and instrumentation; a fleet of small and large research vessels; the GCRL Museum collection; facilities at the Center for Fisheries Research and Development (CFRD) and Thad Cochran Marine Aquaculture Center (TCMAC); and the NSF I/UCRC Science Center for Marine Fisheries. Ocean Springs is known for its beauty, natural resources, and arts community. It is home to galleries, restaurants, and schools that are ranked among the best in the state.
Center for Fisheries Research and Development
The Center for Fisheries Research and Development is a research unit at the GCRL campus of USM that has been conducting fisheries monitoring for over 50 years. Our scientists develop and implement research efforts that informs resource management at regional, national, and international levels. We work with state, federal, and community partners to ensure that we understand scientific fishery needs, and focus our research efforts on how we can promote sustainable fisheries and habitats. Our staff also serve on assessment panels to ensure our data inform effective management decisions. CFRD resources include a fleet of vehicles and vessels, a flat bed trailer, a wide array of sampling gear for invertebrates and vertebrates of all life stages, water sampling and monitoring equipment, passive acoustic telemetry arrays, histology and ageing technology, 3-D printer, as well as equipped wet labs and dry labs
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).
Job Summary
The Center for Fisheries Research and Development at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory campus of The University of Southern Mississippi invites qualified applicants to apply for a full-time Research Scientist position; developing, directing, and participating in research projects relating to field based fisheries science. The Research Scientist is expected to maintain an externally funded research program in fisheries.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
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Develops, plans, implements and manages field based fisheries science research studies in a safe manner.
- Writes proposals, achieves funding, and maintains research efforts through competitive grantsmanship.
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Evaluates, analyzes and interprets scientific data. Reports data results through technical reports, manuscript development, and professional or public presentations.
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Supervises the training, tasking, timeliness, and quality of work of technicians, scientists and other research staff on research projects.
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Provides technical/scientific expertise to the CFRD Director, co-project leads/principal investigators (internal or external), state/federal agencies, special interest groups, and the general public.
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Works with CFRD’s financial coordinator and financial manager, USM’s ORA, and other University entities to ensure compliance and regulatory mechanisms are met. Participates in outreach events and other activities as directed. Adheres to University policies, and procedures and performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
A Ph.D. from an accredited college or university in a fisheries relevant discipline and 5 years related experience.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
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Experience in fisheries science (i.e. biology, population dynamics, ecology, physiology, behavior, conservation).
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Strong quantitative abilities
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Strong record of grantsmanship
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Strong record of publications, project leads, and scientific presentations
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Networking capabilities
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Ability to work as a member of a team
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Ability to lead a team
Preferred Qualifications
Postdoctoral experience is preferred. A record of scholarship, service, grant development, communication, and publication. Consistent record of diverse funded research awards. We encourage newly emerging fisheries discipline awareness looking at alternative methods of addressing fisheries data needs. Preference will be given to applicants showing potential for collaboration within USM centers and academic units (e.g. Marine Science, Coastal Science, Ocean Engineering, Aquaculture Center, Hydrographic Science Research Center).
About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.
