Projects are expected to result in a publishable addition to scientific knowledge. Incumbent consults with supervisor on problem definition and development of plan and attack. Incumbent is responsible for the study and pursues it to completion, solving problems ordinarily entailed in accomplishment of the work with only occasional reference to the supervisor. Incumbent interprets results and prepares reports. Supervisor reviews papers for completeness, clarity, and presence of supporting information.
Incumbent uses existing theory and methods that are generally applicable to most problems.
The originality required is primarily the development of a complete and adequate research design for the particular assignment. Only limited innovation or modification of procedures and techniques is required. Complex but established experimental techniques may be used. Performs independent oceanographic research as member of a research team. Has contributed as co-author, in a secondary role, to major scientific papers which are of major importance to the oceanographic field, or as senior author of a paper of minor importance to a limited area or limited scope in oceanographic science.