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Postdoctoral Investigator - Physical Oceanography

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
United States, Massachusetts, Woods Hole
Oct 15, 2025

Job Summary

The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Investigator (PDI) in observational physical oceanography under the supervision of Dr. Isabela Le Bras.

The study region is the subpolar North Atlantic, a globally significant gateway for carbon dioxide and oxygen into the deep ocean. The project targets a detailed understanding of these ventilation pathways, which are not well-reproduced in climate models.

The postdoc would be joining an interdisciplinary group across multiple institutions funded by NSF to analyze an unprecedented six-year moored oxygen time series on the Overturning in the Subpolar North Atlantic Program (OSNAP, o-snap.org) across the Labrador and Irminger Seas. The co-PIs of the project, which is known as Gases in the Overturning and Horizontal circulation of the Subpolar North Atlantic Program (GOHSNAP), are Dr. Jaime Palter (University of Rhode Island), Dr. Hilary Palevsky (Boston College), Dr. Dariia Atamanchuk (Dalhousie University), and Dr. Roo Nicholson (WHOI). We all meet monthly and collaborate closely. The specific goals of GOHSNAP are to (1) probe the coupling between overturning, deep water formation, and ventilation, (2) better quantify the contribution of air-sea exchange over boundary currents to ventilation and (3) investigate overflow water transformation through the lens of ventilation processes.

Job Description

The postdoc will be responsible for analyzing the GOHSNAP data in the context of scientific hypotheses and writing manuscripts from the results. The position is intended to start in Summer 2026 and is for 12-months, with funding secured for a second year, pending satisfactory progress. While the planned focus area for the postdoc is boundary current ventilation, candidates are encouraged to reach out to Isabela Le Bras to discuss the potential scientific scope of their research project. The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. in physical oceanography, experience with oceanographic data analysis, and an interest in biogeochemistry. Strong oral and written communication skills are expected. The individual may contribute to field work on one or more of the mooring cruises and will have opportunities to assist with student mentoring. There is no teaching requirement or expectation to write research grants, but those opportunities can be provided as desired.

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.

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.

Qualified applicants should submit (1) a 2-page statement of experience, career goals, research vision and interests, (2) CV, (3) up to three relevant publications, and (4) names/contact information three professional references.

Additional Job Requirements

Salary Range: $68,300-72,000

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.

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.

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