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EmployerUniversity of Southern Mississippi
Location Ocean Springs, MS USA
PostedSeptember 18, 2025

Job Details

Research Associate - deMutsert Lab
Research Associate - deMutsert Lab

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Research Associate - deMutsert Lab.

Position Details

Location Gulf Coast Research Laboratory

703 East Beach Drive

Ocean Springs, Mississippi, 39564

United States

Division Coastal Sciences

Position Type Staff

Employment Status Part Time

Grant Funded Yes

Salary Range 25.00 - 25.00

Pay Grade

Generic Grade

Posting Close Date Five Days After Posted

Special Instructions to Applicants

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 Research Associate will provide specialized expertise in species distribution modeling to support a graduate student research project. This position focuses on guiding the application of statistical and spatial tools-including R, MaxEnt, and ArcGIS Pro-to develop robust species distribution models. By offering technical instruction, mentorship, and project guidance, the Research Associate will play a key role in strengthening the graduate student's research design, analysis, and outcomes.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

+ Meet weekly with the graduate student to provide instruction, guidance, and troubleshooting in the use of R, MaxEnt, and ArcGIS Pro for species distribution modeling.

+ Assist in refining modeling approaches, ensuring accuracy, reproducibility, and best practices in ecological modeling.

+ Provide feedback on data preparation, analysis, and interpretation to support high-quality research outcomes.

+ Offer mentorship in the integration of ecological knowledge with computational tools to address research questions.

+ Perform additional duties as assigned to support the success of the project.

Minimum Qualifications

Master's degree from an accredited college or university in Coastal Sciences, Marine Biology, Ecology, or a closely related field; and prior experience developing and applying species distribution models along with demonstrated proficiency in R, ArcGIS Pro, and MaxEnt.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

+ Strong knowledge of statistical modeling, spatial analysis, and ecological data management.

+ Ability to clearly communicate technical concepts to students and researchers with varying levels of expertise.

+ Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills in computational and ecological modeling.

+ Ability to work independently while supporting collaborative research goals.

+ Attention to detail and commitment to research integrity and reproducibility.

Preferred Qualifications

Familiarity with the Mississippi Sound ecosystem.

Knowledge of fish and shellfish ecology.

Experience mentoring or training students in ecological modeling or data analysis.

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.

Job #NLX281919532