Postdoctoral Investigator - Sensory Biology & Bioacoustics

Job Summary

Job Description

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) is accepting applications for a Postdoctoral Investigator (PDI) to lead a range of field and laboratory activities focused on sensory biology and bioacoustics research. This is an exciting opportunity to work at a world-renowned oceanographic research institution, collaborating with top scientists and engineers to advance our understanding of how marine life senses and responds to their acoustic environments. This is temporary, fixed-term, half-time role with limited benefits (20-29 hours/week). The initial appointment is for a six-month term, with the potential for extension subject to organizational needs and other relevant factors.

The successful candidate will design and lead physiological hearing experiments with testudines (turtles), conduct bioacoustic studies on the effects of noise on marine organisms, and play a central role in data collection, management, analysis, and fieldwork. This position involves a mix of independent research, team collaboration, and active participation in outreach and science communication activities.

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

Position is available immediately. Preference will be given to applications received by October 31, 2025 but applicants will be considered until the position is filled.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead physiological hearing experiments with turtles using auditory evoked potential (AEP) and related methods.

• Conduct acoustic field and laboratory experiments to assess the effects of noise on marine species.

• Manage data collection, organization, and analysis, including acoustic analyses of both pressure and particle motion in free field and aquaria settings.

• Plan and participate in field campaigns, including small boat operations and extended travel for fieldwork.

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams and contribute to outreach and communication activities.

• Support tool development and engineering integration for experimental setups as needed.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• Master's or Ph.D. in marine science, bioengineering, or a related field.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in hearing and noise impact research, including AEP methods, auditory physiology, and anatomy of marine animals (with experience in turtles and/or sea turtles preferred).

• Proficiency in MATLAB and related coding for data processing and analysis.

• Experience with acoustic analyses in both pressure and particle motion, in free-field and aquarium settings.

• Strong verbal communication skills, with the ability to work in dynamic research environments and across multiple project teams.

• Ability to manage time effectively across concurrent projects and work both independently and collaboratively.

• Experience with small boat operations, animal handling, husbandry/zoology, and large dataset management.

• A background blending biology with engineering/tool development is highly desirable.

Additional Job Requirements

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.