Marine Science Professor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of climate change and environmental preservation, the role of marine science professors has become increasingly significant.

As our knowledge about the Earth’s oceans and marine life expands, so too does the demand for skilled educators who can explore, impart, and defend our understanding of this vast aquatic realm.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a marine science professor?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring academic looking to understand the scope of this role,
• A university recruiter mapping out the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the complex world of marine science,

You’ve navigated to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable marine science professor job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or academic career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Marine Science Professor Duties and Responsibilities

Marine Science Professors perform a range of tasks related to the study and teaching of oceanography, marine biology, and related fields.

They are primarily responsible for imparting knowledge and conducting research, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Prepare and deliver lectures on topics such as marine biology, oceanography, and marine ecology
• Design, implement, and monitor laboratory, field studies and other student assignments
• Conduct research in a particular field of knowledge and publish findings in professional journals, books, or electronic media
• Stay current in the field by reading professional literature, attending conferences, and engaging in other professional development activities
• Maintain office hours to advise and assist students
• Supervise undergraduate or graduate teaching, internship, and research work
• Collaborate with colleagues to address teaching and research issues
• Participate in campus and community events
• Perform administrative duties such as serving as department head
• Apply for research funding and grants
• Develop and revise curriculum based on feedback from students, current research, and institutional standards

 

Marine Science Professor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly knowledgeable and passionate Marine Science Professor to join our faculty.

The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting innovative research, teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in marine biology, and contributing to the ongoing development of our marine science program.

The Marine Science Professor will perform research, guide students, and publish findings in scientific journals.

The ideal candidate should have a strong background in marine biology, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver lectures on various marine science topics
• Conduct original research in marine biology
• Supervise student research projects and theses
• Publish research findings in scientific journals
• Apply for research grants to secure funding for research projects
• Participate in departmental and university meetings
• Mentor students and provide academic advice
• Contribute to curriculum development and program enhancement
• Stay updated on current developments and trends in marine science

 

Qualifications

• PhD in Marine Biology, Marine Science, or a related field
• Extensive experience in teaching and research
• Strong track record of published research
• Experience in securing research funding
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity in education

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Marine Science Professor
• Work Environment: University setting with options for field research. Some travel may be required for conferences and research purposes.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of the Marine Science Department.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our institution. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a list of publications to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Marine Science Professor Do?

Marine Science Professors work in universities and colleges, where they teach students a range of topics related to marine science such as oceanography, marine biology, and marine ecology.

They prepare and deliver lectures, create and grade exams and assignments, and guide students in their coursework and research projects.

They may also supervise doctoral candidates and provide mentoring to undergraduate and graduate students.

Aside from teaching, Marine Science Professors are often involved in conducting their own research.

They study various aspects of marine life, ecosystems, and oceanic processes.

They may also examine the impact of human activities on marine environments.

Their research often involves fieldwork, which could mean spending time on ships or at marine stations, collecting and analyzing data.

Marine Science Professors also contribute to the broader scientific community by publishing their findings in scientific journals, presenting at conferences, and participating in peer review of other scientists’ work.

Additionally, they may provide their expertise to governments, businesses, non-profit organizations, or community groups.

This could involve advising on marine conservation efforts, assessing the environmental impact of certain activities, or helping develop sustainable fishing practices.

 

Marine Science Professor Qualifications and Skills

A Marine Science Professor should possess a combination of technical knowledge, teaching skills, and research capabilities to effectively educate and mentor students in the marine sciences.

Key skills and qualifications include:

• Extensive knowledge in marine biology, oceanography, ecology, and related sciences to provide comprehensive instruction and guidance to students.
• Research skills to conduct significant studies in marine science, contribute to academic knowledge and stay up-to-date with latest advancements in the field.
• Teaching and mentoring skills to effectively communicate complex scientific concepts, inspire students, and guide them through their academic journey.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills to clearly express ideas, explain scientific phenomena, and present research findings in understandable terms.
• Organization and planning skills to design course syllabi, prepare class schedules, and manage classroom activities efficiently.
• Writing skills for publishing research papers in academic journals and writing grant proposals for research funding.
• Interpersonal skills to work effectively with students, faculty members, and other stakeholders in the academic community.
• Problem-solving skills to address student queries, conduct research, and handle classroom challenges.

 

Marine Science Professor Experience Requirements

The path to becoming a Marine Science Professor usually starts with obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in a related field such as Marine Biology or Oceanography.

However, this is just the first step, as a Master’s degree in a similar discipline is often required, and some universities may even require a Ph.D.

In addition to these academic qualifications, having practical experience in the field is often required.

This could be through internships, research projects, field work or laboratory experience during their undergraduate and graduate studies.

This hands-on experience can be crucial in teaching students about the realities of marine science work.

After earning their advanced degrees, potential Marine Science Professors usually gain experience as a postdoctoral researcher, which allows them to further refine their research skills and contribute to the field.

Teaching experience is also critical for this role.

Candidates may gain this experience as teaching assistants during their graduate studies, or through adjunct professor roles.

They may also be required to have a track record of publications in reputable scientific journals.

Those with over 5 years of experience in teaching and research may have the qualifications necessary for a tenured professor position.

They should have demonstrated effective teaching skills and have a significant research portfolio in the marine science field.

 

Marine Science Professor Education and Training Requirements

Marine Science Professors typically require a doctoral degree in marine biology, oceanography, or a related field of study.

This involves extensive study of marine life, ecosystems, and oceanic processes.

The path to becoming a Marine Science Professor usually begins with a bachelor’s degree in biology, marine science, or a related field, followed by a master’s degree in marine science or a related area.

This is then followed by a Ph.D. program which involves specialized research in the candidate’s field of interest.

During their Ph.D. program, candidates gain teaching experience, often by assisting professors in undergraduate courses.

This allows them to develop the necessary skills and experience to lead their own classes and conduct their own research.

After obtaining a doctoral degree, many aspiring Marine Science Professors spend a few years in postdoctoral research positions to gain more research experience, publish scientific papers, and delve deeper into their areas of interest.

Some universities or institutions might require their professors to have a specific teaching certification or credential.

Continual learning is crucial for a Marine Science Professor to stay updated with the latest research and developments in the field of marine science.

This can be achieved through professional development courses, seminars, and workshops.

Finally, practical field experience, such as experience with marine research expeditions, data collection, and analysis, are also valuable for a Marine Science Professor.

 

Marine Science Professor Salary Expectations

A Marine Science Professor earns an average salary of $97,609 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, the prestige of the institution, and geographical location.

 

Marine Science Professor Job Description FAQs

What educational qualifications are required for a Marine Science Professor?

A Marine Science Professor typically needs a doctoral degree in marine biology or a related field.

Some universities might accept a master’s degree, but a Ph.D. is often preferred.

They should have a record of research, publications, and teaching in the marine sciences.

 

What does a typical day look like for a Marine Science Professor?

A Marine Science Professor’s day varies greatly, depending on the time of the year and their particular institution.

They could be teaching marine biology courses, preparing lectures, grading papers, or advising students.

They may also be conducting or supervising research, writing academic articles, or attending professional conferences.

Some of their time may also be dedicated to administrative and departmental duties.

 

What qualities make a good Marine Science Professor?

A good Marine Science Professor has in-depth knowledge of marine biology and is passionate about the subject.

They should have the ability to present complex concepts in a way that is engaging and understandable to students.

Good interpersonal and communication skills are vital, as they often work closely with students and colleagues.

They should also possess strong research skills and the ability to secure funding for their research projects.

 

What should you look for in a Marine Science Professor’s resume?

In a Marine Science Professor’s resume, look for a doctoral degree in marine biology or a related field.

Check for experience in teaching at the university level and a history of research and publication in the field of marine science.

Membership in professional organizations, grants and awards, and experience with fieldwork or laboratory research can also be important indicators of a candidate’s qualifications.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Marine Science Professor?

Hiring a Marine Science Professor can be challenging due to the specific qualifications and experience required.

The pool of candidates with a Ph.D. in marine biology and the necessary teaching and research experience may be limited.

However, the use of job boards specialized in academic and scientific professions can facilitate the hiring process.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we dove beneath the surface to explore the intricacies of being a marine science professor.

And guess what?

It’s not just about teaching classes.

It’s about shaping the future of ocean conservation, one marine biology lesson at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive marine science professor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to set sail on your career voyage.

But why anchor here?

Plunge deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next wave to crafting precise job listings or perfecting your CV to a tee.

Remember:

Every marine biology lesson contributes to a broader understanding of our oceans.

Let’s navigate that future. Together.

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