Professor Simon Donner and the Climate and Coastal Ecosystem Lab at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada are searching for a postdoctoral researcher to participate in interdisciplinary research on ocean extreme events and their effects on coastal ecosystems. The research group conducts work at the intersection of climate and marine science, and informs policy and management at national and international scales.
Coastal ecosystems are at the frontlines of climate change. Marine heatwaves attributed to human-caused climate change have caused mass mortality and phase shifts in coral reefs, kelp forests and other coastal ecosystems. In addition to other areas of climate science and policy research, our group studies the drivers of marine heatwaves and their effects on coral reef and kelp systems at the global scale using large-scale numerical modelling and data analysis, as well as via field research in the equatorial Pacific in collaboration with local partners (e.g., Republic of Kiribati, Galápagos Archipelago).
The postdoc will have the option to focus on one or more project(s) related to i) assessing multiple drivers of coral bleaching using a global database developed in the group; ii) drivers and effects of warm-season marine heatwaves in the central equatorial Pacific, iii) projecting the effect of compound climate extremes (temperature, oxygen, etc.) on coral and kelp systems. The position comes with opportunities to engage in climate policy and adaptation discussions, and for training in climate communication and engagement.
Qualifications: Applicants must have a PhD in oceanography, marine ecology, climate science or a related field, experience with large-scale numerical modelling and data analysis (i.e., Matlab, Python), and a demonstrated interest in interdisciplinary climate research. Expertise in coral reef or kelp ecosystems is an asset. The ideal candidate is a rigourous, self-motivated scientist with excellent analytical and communication skills who will thrive working with a diverse and interdisciplinary group of researchers.
Position Details: This is a full-time two-year position with the potential to extend to a third year. Salary range is $66,000 to $72,000, depending on experience and qualifications. UBC offers postdocs a wide-ranging benefits plan that includes extended health and dental coverage. Postdocs are encouraged to apply for external funding to support their independent research building on this position within the research group. Applications are being considered on a rolling basis. Applicants must be available to start by Dec 1, 2024.
Application Instructions: Please email simon.donner@ubc.ca with the title “CCEL Postdoctoral Position” and the following materials:
- body of e-mail:
- brief description of your background, career vision and fit to the position
- one or two specific research questions you’d like to address within the above topics
- the methods you would use to answer the question(s)
- names and contact information of two professional references
- a copy of your latest CV
- a representative sample of your research (for which you are lead author)
Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person.