Bachelor’s degree (foreign equivalent or higher) in Marine Sciences or a related field. Two (2) years of full time related research experience. Must have, keep and maintain the appropriate valid NYS Driver’s License; have a motor vehicle record which is free from major violations or a pattern of repeat violations. (***Out-of-State Applicants, see “Special Notes”). Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree (foreign equivalent or higher) in Marine Sciences or related field. Diving experience, with AAUS certification. Experience with data analysis. Experience with information management, with proficiency in R. Experience operating, maintaining and calibrating laboratory equipment to prevent and restore breakdowns. Experience with budgeting. Experience with inventory management. Experience operating a small watercraft.

Brief Description Of Duties The Senior Research Support Specialistwill work under the supervision of Principal Investigator, Bradley Peterson, in the Marine Ecology Lab, and will play a central role in coordinating and executing the lab’s field, analytical and organizational activities. The successful incumbent thrives in dynamic environments, communicates clearly, solves problems proactively, and takes pride in building a strong, safe, and high-‑functioning research team.

Responsibilities Will Include Field Operations & Vessel Management

• Direct fieldwork logistics and lead small teams during marine operations.
• Safely operate and navigate small vessels for research activities.
• Participate in scientific diving (AAUS) and oversee dive safety protocols.

Technical Maintenance & Data Oversight

• Calibrate and maintain specialized instrumentation (YSI sondes, acoustic receivers, dive compressors).
• Oversee data management workflows, quality control, and analysis (using R).
• Contribute to manuscript preparation and technical reporting.

Administration, Compliance & Leadership

• Manage laboratory inventory, purchasing, and departmental budgeting.
• Ensure strict compliance with institutional and government research permits.
• Mentor students/interns and provide input on hiring and personnel decisions.
• Interface independently with marine staff and external partners.

Other duties as assigned.

Special Notes The Research Foundation of SUNY is a private educational corporation. Employment is subject to the Research Foundation policies and procedures, sponsor guidelines and the availability of funding. FLSA Exempt position, not eligible for the overtime provisions of the FLSA. Minimum salary threshold must be met to maintain FLSA exemption.

The starting salary range (or hiring range) to be offered for this position is noted below, it represents SBU’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Evening And Weekend Work Will Be Required At Times. This position requires occasional long hours during peak summer field season, due to constraints of tide and weather.

• Out-of-State Applicants: Please note as a condition of employment and in order for this position to be tendered, the successful incumbent will be required to provide evidence of a valid license and driving abstract from the state issuing the license within five business days of a conditional offer and must obtain a NYS driver’s license within 30 days of start date.

For this position, we are unable to sponsor candidates for work visas.

Resume/CV and cover letter should be included with the online application.

Stony Brook University is committed to excellence in diversity and the creation of an inclusive learning and working environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status and all other protected classes under federal or state laws. If you need a disability-related accommodation, please call the university Office of Equity and Access (OEA) at (631) 632-6280 or visit OEA .

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SUNY Research Foundation: A Great Place to Work. Official Job Title Senior Research Support Specialist

Job Field Administrative & Professional (non-Clinical)

Primary Location US-NY-Southampton

Department/Hiring Area School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences

Schedule Full-time

Posting Start Date Apr 15, 2026

Posting End Date Apr 29, 2026, 10:59:00 PM

Salary $55,000 – $60,000

Appointment Type Regular

Salary Grade E79

SBU Area The Research Foundation for The State University of New York at Stony Brook