Postdoctoral Investigator - Physical Oceanography

Job Summary

The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Investigator (PDI) in Physical Oceanography focused on coastal ocean, exchange across the continental shelf, and the use of in situ and remote sensing methods to examine coastal circulation. The successful candidate will be supervised by Dr. Anthony Kirincich.

Job Description

The goal of the position is to examine the physical mechanisms of exchange and stirring over the continental shelf. Understanding the scales of vertical and horizontal mixing that bound the across-shelf movement of water and particles is a fundamental problem in coastal oceanography that has been limited by a lack of detailed observations to both evaluate theory and models and provide guidance for scientific progress. The ideal candidate will have a strong observational or remote sensing background, experience working with instrumentation, proven skills in data analysis, as well as experience with either shipboard or land-based field work. Direct experience with specific observational systems, such as High Frequency Radar, acoustic Doppler current profilers, and point and profiling meteorological sensors are preferred but not required. The candidate will have the opportunity to examine and advance new methods of observing coastal ocean currents and ocean surface winds via emerging technologies and collaborate with an interdisciplinary team of engineers and research associates to carry out observational field efforts. Strong oral and written communication skills, preferably demonstrated through publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals and presentations, are also required. The initial appointment is 18 months. Renewal of the appointment is conditional on the PDI making satisfactory progress during the prior year and continuation of funding. This is a full-time position with full benefits (https://www.whoi.edu/website/HR/benefits).

About the Institution

WHOI is situated in the village of Woods Hole, Massachusetts on Cape Cod, approximately 1.5 hours driving south of Boston. WHOI has approximately 1200 full-time employees and students engaged in oceanographic research and education. WHOI is co-located in Woods Hole with the University of Chicago Marine Biological Laboratory, NOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center, USGS Coastal and Marine Science Center, and Woodwell Climate Research Center, driving a vibrant marine research community.

Essential Functions & Duties

Conduct independent research on coastal circulation using existing and future datasets focused on in situ and remote estimates of ocean velocities. Conduct field deployments, maintenance, processing and analysis of observational datasets.

Required Experience & Education

Ph.D and prior experience working with oceanographic sensors and observational datasets.

Physical Requirements

In addition to analytical skills and abilities, the candidate must be able to conduct field work as part of the ongoing maintenance of ocean observing systems including: handling lines to support deck operations on research vessels, climbing ladders to install equipment, and lifting and carried objects up to 40 lbs in weight.

Sea Duty

Potentially required.

Travel

Travel to remote field sites, the ability to work alone in the field, and a valid US driving license are required.

Work Authorization/Security Clearance

Yes - Green Card Holder, Citizen, TWIC Card, Security Clearance

Additional Job Requirements

Salary Range: $68,381-$75,498

EEO Statement

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.