Program Manager, Gulf Oyster Breeding Center
The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Program Manager, Gulf Oyster Breeding Center.
Location
Gulf Coast Research Laboratory
703 East Beach Drive
Ocean Springs, Mississippi, 39564
United States
Division
Thad Cochran Marine Aquacultural Center
Employment Status
Full Time
Salary Range
77,590.00 - 104,973.00
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled
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 Program Manager will manage programs and research activities for the Gulf Oyster Breeding Center, a collaborative initiative with NOAA focused on advancing oyster aquaculture and restoration in the northern Gulf. This position will coordinate an oyster breeding program conducting stakeholder-informed research to support the oyster aquaculture industry in the Gulf of America by improving traits that enhance production, resilience, and climate readiness. Responsibilities include planning and coordinating research activities, managing hatchery and growout operations related to the breeding program, overseeing data collection and archiving, assisting the principal investigator with reporting, producing and contributing to publications related to the program, acting as liaison with institutional, state, federal and industry partners, and producing guidance deliverables for scientific and industry audiences. The role also involves fostering partnerships, supporting technology transfer, and ensuring smooth operations across Center facilities and partner sites as needed. The position is based at the Thad Cochran Marine Aquaculture Center in Ocean Springs, MS.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
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Lead and manage programs and research activities at the Gulf Oyster Breeding Center, ensuring alignment with the Center’s strategic goals and NOAA initiatives.
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Develop and maintain stakeholder relationships with state, federal, and private partners to guide Center priorities and inform research and technology transfer efforts.
- Develop and manage grant-funded research projects, including proposal development, budgeting, project planning, implementation, and reporting for both new and ongoing programs.
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Produce and disseminate research outputs, including scientific publications, technical reports, presentations, press articles, and digital content for scientific, industry, and public audiences.
- Conduct and oversee field research activities, including analyses of genomic, transcriptomic, and epigenomic data using methods such as Genotyping by sequencing, RNA sequencing, DNA methylation analyses, and qPCR, along with downstream bioinformatic processing of obtained data.
- Oversee standard operating procedures development, implementation and management and archiving and sharing of data related to programs of the breeding center.
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Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Aquaculture, Biology, Fisheries Biology, Biological Science, Genetics, Marine Biology, Marine Ecology, Ichthyology, or a related field and four (4) years’ experience in research or operations related to commercial aquaculture operations, scientific aquaculture programs, aquatic selective breeding programs, or shellfish or finfish genetics. A valid Driver’s License is required.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
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Ability to plan, organize, and manage research projects, aquaculture operations, and program activities, including supervising personnel to achieve objectives.
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Ability to effectively communicate research results in written, oral, and visual formats.
- Experience consulting with state and federal agencies on research grants and achieving project objectives.
- Strong background in technical analyses and laboratory equipment relevant to aquaculture and genetics research.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment, make decisions, and provide clear guidance, while interacting tactfully with colleagues and stakeholders.
- Ability to present study results to scientific, governmental, and industry audiences.
Preferred Qualifications
Ph.D. from an accredited college or university in Aquaculture, Biology, Fisheries Biology, Biological Science, Marine Biology Marine Ecology, Ichthyology, or a related field; and a record of grantsmanship, publication, and project management. Experience with outreach and technology transfer.
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.
