Laboratory Assistant - Research Cruise

Job Summary

Job Description

The Department of Geology and Geophysics at WHOI is seeking to hire three (3) temporary Laboratory Assistants to participate in a seagoing research cruise scheduled from late December 2025 through January 2026. This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience in marine geophysical research and to work alongside world-class scientists and technicians at sea.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist with the preparation and deployment of seafloor geophysical instrumentation, under supervision

• Support a range of geophysical operations during the cruise

• Collaborate with team members to maintain a safe, productive, and professional research environment onboard

• Perform tasks as needed in support of cruise objectives, including maintaining flexibility around rotating shifts and variable hours

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience living or working at sea for extended periods is highly desirable

• Alternatively, experience in remote locations or confined, team-based settings with flexible, non-standard hours

• Strong teamwork and interpersonal communication skills

• Willingness and ability to adapt to dynamic working conditions at sea

• A valid passport is required for international travel from the final port of call

Additional Information:
This is a temporary seagoing position that requires full-time commitment for the duration of the research cruise. Training and orientation may be provided prior to departure. All travel and cruise-related expenses will be covered by WHOI.

Additional Job Requirements

WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.

EEO Statement

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.