About Bantry Marine Research Station (BMRS)

Bantry Marine Research Station Ltd. (BMRS) is a privately owned marine biotechnology company located on the shores of Bantry Bay, Co. Cork. With over two decades of experience, BMRS has established itself as a leader in marine research and aquaculture innovation.

BMRS operates state-of-the-art facilities for the cultivation of macroalgae, including licensed land-based and at-sea systems. The station is actively involved in the production of seaweed species such as Alaria esculenta and Saccharina latissima, supplying seeded string to Irish seaweed farmers and biomass to downstream partners. More recently, BMRS has been expanding its cultivation portfolio to include red seaweed species such as Asparagopsis armata and Porphyra spp.

BMRS collaborates on numerous EU and national projects, contributing to the advancement of marine resource management and sustainable aquaculture practices. Its research spans seaweed farming, processing, integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) and a wide range of seaweed biomass applications.

We are currently seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Senior Seaweed Nursery Technician.

Location: Bantry, Co. Cork, Ireland.
Position Type: Full-time

Reports To: R&D Director/Seaweed Hatchery Manager 

Key Responsibilities

• Plan daily operations of the seaweed nursery, including biobanking, propagation, out planting preparation.
• Implement and optimize nursery protocols for vegetative and sexual propagation of multiple seaweed species.
• Ensure compliance with health & safety, biosecurity, and environmental standards by optimizing current SOPs when needed.
• Supervise and train junior nursery staff.
• Collaborate with research teams on experimental trials and data collection.
• Maintain accurate records of nursery operations, production, and research activities.

Required Qualifications

• Degree in Marine Biology, Aquaculture, Environmental Science, or a related field.

Professional Experience​

• Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in seaweed cultivation, particularly in nursery operations involving red seaweed.
• Proven track record in team management and staff supervision.
• Background in collaborative research and data collection.

Technical Skills

• Strong understanding of seaweed biology and physiology.
• Proficiency in vegetative and sexual propagation techniques.
• Operation of aquaculture support systems (air and water) and equipment (environmental monitoring, culture cabinets tanks, photobioreactors)
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office tools.
• Experience with production and data management software (desirable).

Soft Skills

• Excellent organizational and leadership abilities, managing projects and guiding junior team members.
• Strong communication skills for clear updates and technical reporting to nursery manager.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Problem-solving mindset and adaptability to changing conditions.

Desirable Attributes

• Passion for seaweed and sustainable aquaculture.
• Diver and boat operator with relevant permits and experience.
• Willingness to live and work in a rural, remote area.
• Experience supervising students and/or interns.
• Participation in collaborative, industry-focused research projects.
• Availability for travel and occasional weekend work.
• Driver's license and clean driving record

Team Environment

The successful applicant will be expected to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary and international team of technical and research staff within an industry-focused environment.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and motivation to Deirdre Mcelligott at deirdre.mcelligott@bmrs.ie. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.