Research Assistant I, Bioacoustic Data Analyst

Job Summary

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently seeking a Research Assistant I, Bioacoustic Data Analyst to join the Biology Department. This is a regular fixed-term, full-time, non-exempt position and is eligible for full benefits. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge bioacoustics research in a world-renowned oceanographic institution. If you are passionate about marine acoustics, data analysis, and research, we encourage you to apply!

Reporting to the Research Team Lead, the Research Assistant will be responsible for conducting fine-scale analyses of acoustic recordings of bottlenose dolphins, contributing to the development and maintenance of a systematic MATLAB-based database. Additionally, the Research Assistant will analyze various marine acoustic datasets, including sounds from marine mammals, fish, and anthropogenic noise sources. Soundscape analyses and data annotation will be key components of this role. The position may also involve analyzing drone video collected from acoustic playback experiments, as well as examining acoustic and movement data from digital tags. While fieldwork opportunities may arise, they are limited and not guaranteed.

JOB DESCRIPTION
Essential Functions:
•    Conduct detailed acoustic data analysis using software such as Raven and MATLAB.
•    Maintain, update, and curate a MATLAB-based database of acoustic recordings.
•    Perform annotation and classification of marine animal sounds and anthropogenic noise sources.
•    Conduct soundscape analyses, including characterization of ambient noise levels and detection of biological and anthropogenic sources.
•    Assist in the analysis of drone video footage to evaluate behavioral responses during acoustic playback experiments.
•    Analyze digital tag data, incorporating both acoustic and movement data to assess animal behavior.
•    Document findings and contribute to research reports, presentations, and potential scientific publications.
•    Collaborate with team members to improve data processing methodologies and ensure data quality control.
•    Participate in periodic team meetings and discussions to present findings and receive feedback.
•    Perform other duties as required.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
•    Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., computer science, marine biology, oceanography, bioacoustics, acoustics, environmental science, or a related discipline).
•    Exceptional attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
•    Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively within a team.
•    Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen interest in marine bioacoustics.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
•    Candidates with quantitative backgrounds are preferred, including experience with computer programming and machine learning.  Experience with the acoustic analysis software program Raven and with drone video analysis are

also a plus.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
•    Willingness to work full-time at a computer, analyzing and processing acoustic datasets.
•    Potential for limited fieldwork opportunities, though not guaranteed.
 

Additional Job Requirements

Affirmative Action/EEO Statement

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.