Assistant Extension Professor & Shellfish Aquaculture Specialist

The University of Maine is seeking an accomplished and motivated Assistant Extension Professor and Shellfish Aquaculture Specialist with expertise in applied marine science and aquaculture systems. This position is integral to advancing research, education, and outreach efforts that support the sustainability and growth of the shellfish aquaculture industry. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to scholarly research, stakeholder engagement, and Extension programming, with the ability to develop collaborative partnerships that enhance the reach and impact of their work.

This is a full-time, fiscal year and continuing contract eligible (tenure) faculty appointment, soft money funded position.

Who We Are

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension has been a vital resource for over 100 years, connecting communities with university research to improve lives across the state. Our focus areas include the Maine Food System and Positive Youth Development through 4-H programs, delivered by a network of experts based in county offices statewide.

Knowledge and Skill Qualifications We Are Looking For

Required:

• Doctorate required in Marine Biology, Aquaculture, Marine Science, or a closely related field.
• Approximately 3-5 years experience in shellfish eco-physiology, aquaculture husbandry, and marine production systems.
• Documented ability to conduct high-quality scientific research, as evidenced by grant acquisition and publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience applying statistical and mechanistic modeling approaches to marine or aquaculture research questions.
• Experience conducting field-based marine research, including work in experimental or commercial aquaculture systems.
• Experience managing or supporting aquaculture infrastructure, such as experimental sea farms or hatchery systems.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with academic researchers, aquaculture industry partners, and community stakeholders.
• Experience communicating scientific findings to applied audiences, including through workshops, courses, or extension-style programming.
• Knowledge of current and emerging issues, practices, and trends in the shellfish aquaculture industry.
• Demonstrated excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Computer and mobile device proficiency.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to be self-motivated and directed.
• Demonstrated success in working collaboratively with other agencies and organizations, including private industry.

Preferred:

• At least 2 years postdoctoral research experience in aquaculture or marine science.
• Experience with environmental monitoring and remote sensing applications in marine or aquaculture systems.
• Experience developing or delivering industry-focused training, workshops, or farmer education programs.
• Demonstrated experience conducting interdisciplinary aquaculture research integrating physiology, production, and environmental data.
• Experience with mechanistic growth modeling methods.
• Experience managing field sites, coordinating research activities, or supervising technical staff, students, or interns.
• Familiarity with shellfish aquaculture in Maine and the northeastern United States or comparable coastal systems.
• Experience seeking participation from and working with diverse audiences.

Benefits

Benefits are an important part of your total compensation. The University of Maine System (UMS) strives to provide high-quality, affordable, family-friendly benefit options to meet the needs of our diverse workforce. We offer an excellent benefits package that includes paid time off (holidays, vacation and sick), health, dental, vision and life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, a tuition waiver program for eligible employees and dependents, a 403(b) retirement plan and more.

How to Apply

To be considered for this position you will need to apply and upload the following documentation:

1. A cover letter which describes your experience, interests, and suitability for the position.
2. A resume/curriculum vitae.

Candidates selected to proceed to the final stages of the search process will be requested to provide a list of names and contact information for references.

For full consideration, materials must be submitted by 4:30 p.m. EST on June 5, 2026.

For questions about the search, please contact search committee chair: Sarah Barker, sarah.barker@maine.edu.