Marine Scientist Job Description

Marine Scientist Duties and Responsibilities

Marine Scientist job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

• Collect samples and data using processes such as coring techniques, geographic information systems (GIS), visual recording and sampling
• Work with computer databases and specialist software to analyse information, for example to carry out population assessments of particular species or evaluate ongoing damage to coral reefs in a narrowly defined area
• Conduct sea-based sampling and experimentation, involving periods on sea-going vessels
• Cost, plan and write grant proposals, as well as identify new sources of funding
• Manage research budgets
• Prepare research papers for journals and other specialist publications and present research findings at conferences
• Keep up to date with new research and technologies and attend training courses
• Prepare detailed reports, such as environmental impact assessments, for agencies, commercial organisations, governmental bodies such as the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA), or oil companies drilling on the seabed
• Design scientific experiments, collate findings and design and build the appropriate equipment
• Develop new research theories and test hypotheses
• Advise on matters such as climate change, sea-based energy technologies and environmental impacts
• Liaise with colleagues across the field including fellow research staff, technicians, ships' crews and research assistants
• If based in an academic institution, lecture on specialist subjects and supervise Masters and PhD students
• Conduct educational and awareness-raising work by presenting talks to government ministers, the public, fellow academics and commercial employers.

Marine Scientist Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Marine Scientist job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in marine science, oceanography, marine biology, maritime studies, biology, chemistry, ecology, geology
• Research skills
• Strong analytical and interpretive skills
• Team working and collaboration skills
• Willingness to take on the challenges of seagoing research and life on a ship
• Inquisitiveness and tenacity
• Experience in practical areas such as scuba diving, boat handling and first aid
• Enthusiasm and commitment to the field.
• Strong communication skills for report writing, conference presentations and grant applications
• Experience of habitat mapping and species identification
• Meticulous accuracy and attention to detail
• IT skills

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Marine Scientist starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Marine Scientist job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Marine Scientist may also reference it in preparation for the interview.