Ecotoxicologist

Ecotoxicologist (full-time)
Location: Remote (US citizenship or permanent residency required)
Salary Range: $87,000 – $124,000
Start Date: May 1, 2024 or thereafter
Duration: 2 years

We encourage members of groups historically underrepresented in science and engineering to apply to this role.

Hourglass Climate is a USA-based non-profit organization with the mission to strategically research the safety and efficacy of mineral-based Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement (OAE) techniques for responsible carbon removal and climate impact at scale.

The ocean is our greatest resource for capturing hard-to-abate, and historical, carbon dioxide emissions, a non-negotiable part of limiting climate warming to 2oC, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). OAE via alkaline minerals has the potential for permanent, gigatonne-scale carbon dioxide removal (CDR) with significant co-benefits such as a reduction in ocean acidification. However, targeted, independent and integrated research that rapidly de-risks the key uncertainties around OAE techniques is urgently needed. To do just that, Hourglass brings together an ecosystem of scientists to conduct model, laboratory, and field research for the public benefit.

Job Description:

We are seeking an ecotoxicologist to play a major role in establishing ecological risk assessments for OAE solutions. This role will focus on the development of open-sourced models, specific to the unique circumstances of OAE strategies, that predict the effects of trace metals on marine biota and metal bioaccumulation following international regulatory frameworks for ecological risk assessments. However, as part of the Hourglass ecology team, this position

will also have the opportunity to participate in the design, development, and management of ecological and ecotoxicological laboratory experiments and field trial monitoring programs. This position will feature significant research synthesis, data interpretation, and scientific writing. This is an exciting opportunity to be a part of a team establishing the process for responsible development of technological climate change solutions. This individual must thrive in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary environment while simultaneously contributing to multiple projects. This is a remote position but the ideal candidate will be based in the Eastern Time zone of the US, or able to work the equivalent hours. This role will require approximately quarterly travel for time periods of days to weeks to visit field sites, laboratories, conferences, or important stakeholder meetings. This position will report to Hourglass’s Director of Ecology.

Specific Duties:

• Establish a research pathway for the development of rigorous ecological risk assessments for OAE strategies including an evaluation of ideal modeling tools and identification of empirical data gaps.
• Adapt existing open-source models (e.g. Species Sensitivity Distribution (SSD), Predictive Non-Observed Concentration, Biotic Ligand Models (BLM), the extended transformation/dissolution protocol (T/DP-E), Biokinetic Models, Dynamic Energy Budget Models, Toxicokinetic – Toxicodynamic Models) to create fit-for-purpose OAE ecological risk assessment tools.
• Design and oversee laboratory and field studies that address significant ecotoxicological empirical data gaps.
• Conduct field work in support of ecotoxicological monitoring at OAE field trials (approximately semi-annually).
• Analyze and interpret ecotoxicological data resulting from field and laboratory studies.
• Prepare reports and publications, as well as present at conferences and workshops, for dissemination of scientific findings.
• Contribute to grant writing.
• Serve as an ecotoxicology liaison between Hourglass and non-scientific, external stakeholders (NGOs, governmental officials, community members, regulatory agencies, and the press).

Required Skills and Experience:

• M.Sc in marine/aquatic ecotoxicology + 3 years of relevant trace metal toxicology experience OR Ph.D. in marine/aquatic ecotoxicology with a focus on trace metal toxicology.
• At least two first author peer-reviewed publications.
• Significant experience with one or more of the following: Species Sensitivity Distribution (SSD), Biotic Ligand Models (BLM), Biokinetic Models, Dynamic Energy Budget Models, Toxicokinetic – Toxicodynamic Models.
• Experience using R statistics, Python, or Matlab.
• Ability to participate in fieldwork. Field work may involve boat-based activities.
• Ability and willingness to travel regularly (approximately quarterly) and for extended periods (days to weeks).
• Demonstrated communication skills with both scientists and non-scientists.
• Strong command of the English language, both written and oral.
• Excellent organizational skills, ability to meet deadlines and work independently.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Interdisciplinary background (e.g. intersection of toxicology, ecology, and geochemistry).
• Specialization in benthic and/or phytoplankton species.
• Experience developing ecological risk assessments.
• Experience working with trace metals, in particular, nickel.
• Experience with complex, multivariate data sets (using empirical and modeling data).
• Experience designing, executing and analyzing ecotoxicological laboratory and/or field experiments.
• Prior employment in NGO, government, or industry settings.

Compensation:

Salary is based on the candidate’s experience and ranges from $87,000 – $124,000. Additionally, Hourglass offers a generous benefits package.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion:

Hourglass is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Hourglass is dedicated to transparent recruitment, hiring, and promotion processes. Candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences are strongly encouraged to apply.

Apply:

To be considered for this position, please submit a resume and a cover letter to jobs@hourglassclimate.org with the position title in the subject line. The position will remain open until it is filled.