Junior Research Scientist – Research Aquarist

About the role

NYU Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala Arabian Center for Climate and Environmental Sciences is hiring a Junior Research Scientist – Research Aquarist to join its experimental ecophysiology team. Working under Prof. John Burt, the role supports coral and fish research in state‑of‑the‑art aquarium and mesocosm facilities.

Key responsibilities

• Operate and manage experimental research aquaria of various sizes, including closed‑system and mixed‑gas setups.
• Maintain lighting, air, gas supply, heaters, chillers and other environmental control equipment.
• Design, install, troubleshoot plumbing, tanks and sumps, and oversee life‑support and disease‑control systems.
• Support collection, logging and analysis of aquarium‑based research data.

Required profile

• Demonstrated experience running, maintaining and modifying research aquaria, preferably with Apex Neptune Systems.
• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Marine Biology or related field (Master’s acceptable with ≤5 years experience).
• Valid driver’s licence; SCUBA certification and experience with boat‑based or diving fieldwork are a plus.
• Experience with coral spawning, larval fish husbandry, reef restoration or nursery work is desirable.

Required skills

• Aquarium system operation and maintenance
• Plumbing, tank and sump design
• Environmental control systems (lighting, gas, temperature)
• Apex Neptune Systems

What we offer

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
• Generous relocation allowance and educational assistance for dependents
• Access to health and wellness services
• Support for dual‑career families