Postdoctoral Investigator - Physical Oceanography

Job Summary

The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Investigator (PDI) in Physical Oceanography focused the 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).

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. The PDI will have significant opportunity to collaborate with biogeochemical modelers and ecologists via efforts to couple the physics models to biogeochemical processes and evaluate wind farm impacts on carbon cycling and food availability for endangered North Atlantic Right whales.

WHOI has a top-rated postdoctoral program (www.whoi.edu/postdoctoral/) that supports a dynamic postdoctoral community with formal mentoring and career guidance programs. While the primary focus of the work will be in research, the Postdoctoral Investigator will have opportunities to participate in educational and outreach activities associated with the project.

WHOI is committed to scientific excellence and diversity, and we strongly encourage applications from candidates who will contribute to a culturally diverse and inclusive environment. Applications from minority-serving institutions and historically Black colleges and universities are particularly encouraged.

Qualified applicants should submit a cover letter, CV, up to three relevant publications, and names/contact information for at least three professional references. Please apply online at

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

The salary range provided for this position reflects the expected minimum and maximum base pay for new hires. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as internal equity and market conditions. In addition to base salary, eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package. 

WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.

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.