Would you like to join the multidisciplinary team of the Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation and contribute to applied field research in the Aegean Sea, Greece?

We are seeking a dedicated, proactive, and well-organized individual with a background in biology, chemistry, or environmental sciences and solid laboratory experience to support our Marine Systems Monitoring Lab Team and help advance Archipelagos’ conservation goals.

The ideal candidate thrives in a dynamic, collaborative environment where our multidisciplinary conservation projects involve close cooperation among several research teams, and is a strong team player committed to delivering high-quality scientific work with real conservation impact.

Working closely with the Laboratory Team Leader, the Marine Systems Monitoring Lab Assistant will help ensure the smooth operation of a small laboratory housed within our research station, as well as the effective execution of various field activities at sea. Part of the duties includes providing guidance and coaching to interns as they gain experience in fieldwork, sample processing, and data-collection methodologies.

This position involves close cooperation with the staff team to support day-to-day operations at the research base and on our vessels. It offers an excellent opportunity for someone seeking hands-on scientific, laboratory, and fieldwork experience while further developing a career in marine biology, environmental science, or conservation.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage the field laboratory and oversee its daily operations.
• Directly supervise interns and research team members involved in various analyses and sample-collection activities.
• Conduct data analysis and maintain laboratory databases.
• Provide feedback and support in scientific and technical writing.
• Coach interns to strengthen their scientific, laboratory, and analytical skills.
• Contribute to the general daily operations of the research bases.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• MSc degree in ecological, environmental, marine sciences, or a related field.
• Previous laboratory and/or fieldwork experience.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Experience supervising, training, or mentoring students or volunteers.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to maintain effective working relationships.
• Willingness to conduct fieldwork in all weather conditions.
• Ability to write scientific reports and papers.
• Skills in programming (R, Python, or similar), data analysis, and statistics (preferred).
• Genuine interest in environmental protection and marine conservation.
• Willingness to occasionally work on weekends and holidays.
• Fluency in English.
• Fluency in Greek (preferred).

About Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation:

Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation is a non-profit, non-governmental organization committed to researching and defending the biodiversity of the Greek seas and islands, as well as the entire eastern Mediterranean.
Since its creation in 1998, Archipelagos has been focusing on the combination of multidisciplinary scientific research and efficient conservation work in which local communities play an active part.
This strategic cooperation enables and strengthens Archipelagos’ actions at local, national and European level, allowing it to protect aquatic and terrestrial life against ever-increasing human destructive activities.

About our Marine Systems Monitoring Lab Team:

Archipelagos’ Marine Systems Monitoring Lab Team conducts year-round research to identify the sources, distribution, and impacts of microplastics and climate-driven changes in the Aegean Sea. Our independent laboratory analyzes samples from seawater, sediment, Posidonia oceanica, marine organisms, and selected commercial products to address major data gaps in the eastern Mediterranean.

The team carries out fieldwork using plankton and manta nets, sediment sampling, targeted surveys near wastewater outlets, and microplastic extraction from stranded marine fauna. We also assess microfiber release from synthetic textiles and evaluate the role of seagrass meadows as potential microplastic sinks.

By integrating pollution monitoring, laboratory analysis, and climate-related observations, the Microplastics Lab provides essential data to support Archipelagos’ conservation actions and environmental policy initiatives.

About the location:

Archipelagos Bases are located on the islands of Samos and Lipsi, in the heart of the eastern Aegean Sea in Greece. The Aegean Sea is one of the most important marine biodiversity hotspots in the Mediterranean, with some of the most extensive and pristine ecosystems, hosting populations of keystone species. Far away from mass tourism, these remote Aegean islands offer the most authentic Greek lifestyle with welcoming local communities, rich culture, and beautiful landscapes.
Find out more about our bases at:
https://archipelago.gr/about-us/