The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Teaching Assistant, Coastal Sciences. Position Details Location: Gulf Coast Research Laboratory 703 East Beach Drive, Ocean Springs, Mississippi, 39564, United States Division: School of Ocean Science and Engineering Position Type: Staff Employment Status: Full Time Grant Funded: No Pay Grade: Generic Grade Posting Close Date: Open Until Filled Special Instructions to Applicants Applications for Teaching Assistant will be accepted on an ongoing basis and will be reviewed as needed. Required Application Documents Curriculum Vitae Unofficial transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended (official transcripts may be required if selected) Cover letter describing relevant education, research, and/or work experience related to the marine/coastal science field. Course(s) the applicant wishes to TA must be specified in the cover letter 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 work visas (e.g., H‑1B). Job Summary The University of Southern Mississippi’s Department of Coastal Sciences invites applications for teaching assistants to aid instructors in teaching field‑intensive marine science courses at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. The courses will be offered as part of the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory’s Summer Field Program during the summer intersession, first summer term, and second summer term. Class meets every weekday during the course term. Due to weather impacts on field activities, schedule flexibility is necessary, including possible overnight travel. Modification of the teaching platform from field and lab intensive to virtual may be required. For information about the Summer Field Program, visit Courses and Descriptions Barrier Island Ecology – COA 448/448L Three credit hours (2 lecture, 1 lab). This field course familiarizes students with concepts of coastal ecology with emphasis on the diversity of plant and animal communities unique to the northern Gulf of Mexico barrier islands. Students will take field excursions to barrier islands during the course. Topics covered include marsh, submerged, and barrier island vegetation; aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates; mammals; birds and reptiles; intertidal and shallow subtidal communities; and geologic processes of island dynamics. Cetacean Behavior – COA 444 Three credit hours (3 lecture). Students will learn tools and techniques used in the systematic observation and documentation of delphinid behavior in the wild. Course includes both classroom lecture and field studies focused primarily on dolphins of the Mississippi Sound. Elasmobranch Biology – COA 422/522, 422L/522L Six credit hours (3 lecture, 3 lab). This specialized course provides an overview of elasmobranch (sharks, skates and rays) biology, ecology and taxonomy. Lectures cover evolution, anatomy, physiology, sensory systems, behavior and ecology. Students identify species and receive laboratory experience with inshore and offshore collecting trips and dissections. Marine Conservation – COA 450/550, 450L/550L Five credit hours (3 lecture, 2 lab). This course introduces conservation biology and ecology with a focus on marine and coastal ecosystems. Topics include biodiversity, marine ecosystem processes and threats, conservation of habitat and species, human impacts, solutions, and policy. The course uses lectures, field trips and laboratory exercises to give hands‑on experience. Marine Ichthyology – COA 421/521, 421L/521L Six credit hours (3 lecture, 3 lab). An intensive marine biological field course engaging students to collect and identify marine fishes in numerous Gulf of Mexico habitats. Students learn land‑based and vessel‑based collection techniques such as seining, cast netting, hook and line, trawling, trolling, dip netting, and more. Successful students gain appreciation for fish taxonomy and the biotic‑abiotic interactions driving distribution and diversity. Marine Invertebrate Zoology – COA 428/528, 428L/528L Six credit hours (3 lecture, 3 lab). A concentrated study of marine and estuarine invertebrates from the Mississippi Sound and adjacent Gulf of Mexico shelf. Emphasis on structure, classification, phylogeny, larval development, and functional processes. Prerequisites: two semesters of biology or permission of instructor. Marine Mammals – COA 443/543, 443L/543L Five credit hours (3 lecture, 2 lab). Overview of marine mammal biology (cetaceans, pinnipeds, sirenians, sea otters and the polar bear) including classification, evolutionary history, anatomy, physiology, behavior, conservation and management. Course will be online in 2026. Marine Sciences I: Oceanography – COA 300/300L Five credit hours (3 lecture, 2 lab). Provides a multidisciplinary foundation in oceanography covering terminology, principles, processes, relationships, and phenomena across physical, geological, biological, and chemical sub‑disciplines. Emphasizes interaction of biotic and abiotic processes. Marine Sciences II: Marine Biology – COA 301/301L Five credit hours (3 lecture, 2 lab). Ecological approach to understanding marine systems with emphasis on local organisms, their habitats, life cycles, and survival strategies. Marine Toxicology – COA 490/590: Special Topics – Marine Toxicology Five credit hours. Introduces concepts of aquatic toxicology, history, and basic concepts with focus on aquatic issues, modern molecular techniques, common xenobiotics, and experimental design. Lab activities cover exposure setup, monitoring, endpoint selection, and basic molecular techniques. Course will be online in 2026. The Culture of the Coast – COA 490: Special Topics Five credit hours. Examines how coastal processes and habitats shape human communities through literature, music, and visual arts. Lectures introduce cultural perspectives on adaptation, resilience, and environmental change in coastal regions. Fieldwork in natural and built settings allows exploration of local landscapes and cultural sites. Primary Duties and Responsibilities Gather and prepare necessary supplies and lab equipment for lab and field activities; return equipment to be ready for use by another course after lab or field trip. Coordinate field experiences, including field lunches, vehicle and vessel use, and temporary use of community resources. Follow laboratory safety rules; ensure students follow laboratory safety rules. Assist instructor with administering tests, quizzes, grading, and delivering course content in lecture, laboratory, discussion, and online formats. Maintain communication with Summer Field Program staff members. Follow the policies and procedures of the University of Southern Mississippi. Perform other duties as required. Minimum Qualifications B.S. in Biology, Zoology, Coastal Science or related scientific field (Exceptionally qualified undergraduate students will be considered if accompanied by relevant TA experience). Thorough knowledge of the course the applicant wishes to teach, including relevant field work and/or research experience. Uphold the mission and values of USM, College of Arts & Sciences, and the School of Ocean Science and Engineering. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Ability to assist with conducting a field course in various habitats along the Northern Gulf of Mexico. Able and willing to drive a 15 passenger van on class field trips. Criminal history and background check clearance. Preferred Qualifications Prior teaching assistant experience in an undergraduate and/or graduate program. Experience using Canvas, Blackboard, or other online learning platform. About The University of Southern Mississippi Since its 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, and 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 Equal Opportunity Employer The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY. #J-18808-Ljbffr