Research Assistant (Coral Reef Fish Ecology)

Tunghai University

Institution: Coral Reef Fish Ecology and Conservation Laboratory
Department: Life Science, Tunghai University, Taiwan
Start Date: May 2025 (flexible)
Duration: 2 years (with possibility of extension)
Location: Taichung, Taiwan
Application Contact: Dr. Colin Wen (ckcwen@thu.edu.tw)

Position Summary

The Coral Reef Fish Ecology and Conservation Laboratory at Tunghai University is seeking a full-time Research Assistant to support a research project focused on the bumphead parrotfish (Bolbometopon muricatum) and its ecological role within coral reef ecosystems. The successful candidate will contribute to research aimed at understanding the distribution, behavior, and conservation status of this species across Taiwan’s reef systems.

Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct underwater visual census (UVC) surveys including fish counts, size estimations, and behavioral observations

  • Manage logistics for fieldwork and assist with various lab projects

  • Collect, manage, and analyze data using R and GIS tools

  • Assist in manuscript preparation for scientific publications

  • Provide research support for Ph.D. students in the lab

  • Carry out additional tasks as assigned by the Principal Investigator

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in marine biology, ecology, or a related field

  • Diving certification (Advanced Open Water or equivalent)

  • Minimum of 50 logged SCUBA dives

  • Proficiency with MS Office (particularly Word and Excel)

  • Basic knowledge of statistics and reef ecology

  • Strong teamwork and communication skills

  • Fluency in either Mandarin Chinese or English

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in a relevant field

  • PADI Rescue Diver certification

  • Familiarity with Indo-Pacific fish species

Compensation and Benefits

  • NTD $36,190/month (~USD $1,120) for Bachelor’s degree holders

  • NTD $41,380/month (~USD $1,275) for Master’s degree holders
    (In accordance with Taiwan National Research Council rates)

  • Includes health care benefits

  • Work permit provided and renewable for duration of employment

  • Note: Airfare and relocation expenses are not covered

Cost of Living Insight:

  • Minimum wage in Taiwan: approx. USD $870/month

  • Estimated living expenses in Taichung: ~USD $700/month

How to Apply

Please submit a one-page cover letter, CV, and contact information for two references as a single PDF document.
Send applications and inquiries to: Dr. Colin Wen – ckcwen@thu.edu.tw

To apply for this job email your details to ckcwen@thu.edu.tw