Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for a Postdoctoral Investigator to join the Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry Department. This is a temporary, full-time, exempt position, and is eligible for benefits. The initial appointment will be for two years with the possibility of a third year extension.

Ocean alkalinity enhancement (OAE) is a promising marine carbon dioxide removal approach identified by a recent National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine report. Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Investigator position in developing and executing a scaled series of ship-based ocean alkalinity enhancement field trials. The successful candidate will work with an interdisciplinary set of colleagues in the Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry and Applied Ocean Physics and Engineering Departments to select appropriate deployment sites; plan the trials; and analyze and synthesize field data to characterize the alkalinity and carbon budgets of the deployed plumes. Additional opportunities include developing devices and methods for shipboard tracer and alkalinity deployment, understanding the biogeochemical response to the deployment, and synthesizing multiple shipboard data streams to contextualize the trials within the region. The position will entail field and lab work in Massachusetts and opportunities to go to sea.

The institution 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 the opportunity to participate in educational and outreach activities associated with the project.

Online application forms should be submitted with a cover letter, complete curriculum vitae, and the names of three individuals willing to write a letter of recommendation for the candidate. Applications will be reviewed starting February 15, 2023 and until the position is filled. The position can start immediately. Interested applicants can contact Dr. Adam V. Subhas (asubhas@whoi.edu).

• Contribute to the planning and execution of at least three shipboard alkalinity enhancement field trials.
• Contribute to the analyses of existing and new datasets and publication in scientific journals.
• Work well independently and with a dynamic, interdisciplinary group of scientists and engineers.
• Depending on the successful candidates’ interests and abilities, essential functions may include:
  • Measurement and analysis of carbonate chemistry samples,
  • Operation of underway carbonate chemistry (e.g. pCO2, total alkalinity) instrumentation,
  • Measurement and analysis of tracer fluorescence,
  • Cruise preparation and planning,
  • Contribution to the development of methods to deploy alkalinity and inert tracers from a ship.
  • Analysis of physical oceanography data, such as current speeds, stratification, and mixed layer depth. 

• Ph.D. in Oceanography, Chemistry, Engineering, Applied ocean sciences, or a related discipline.
• Preferred candidates should have strong quantitative skills and interdisciplinary expertise in some of the following fields (in no particular order): (1) marine chemistry and biogeochemical cycling, with a focus on carbonate chemistry (2) participation in research expeditions and shipboard sample collection (3) Data analysis, including a complementary skillset (e.g., programming experience or strong mathematical/statistical training), (4) fluid mechanics and turbulent transport techniques, or (5) chemical engineering with a focus on aqueous/marine systems.

WHOI is a federal contractor required to comply with Executive Order 14042. As such, WHOI has enacted a Mandated COVID19 vaccination policy effective December 8, 2021 where you must register your vaccination status in order to begin your employment. The registration process entails confidentially submitting a vaccination card and/or your vaccination status or requesting to engage in the interactive exemption process for either a medical or religious reason.  

Physical duties for this position include but are not limited to, ability to lift 25 lbs independently, 2 times per day; carry 10-25 lbs, 2 times per day. Visual abilities to include near, far, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to distinguish basic colors. Hearing requirements include the ability to hear and respond to instructions, communicate effectively in loud areas (pier/dock, warehouse). Other physical tasks include occasional prolonged standing/walking; use of hands for basic /fine grasping and manipulation, repetitive motion, reaching above and below the shoulders, pushing, pulling, kneeling, bending, twisting, and stooping. Other occupational requirements include talking, traveling, working around others, and with others. Will be exposed to dust or other irritants and electrical/mechanical/power equipment hazards. Physical duties are subject to change.

May work at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. Sleep and work hours can deviate from those on land. May be expected to work on watch schedule (such as 8 hours on and 8 hours off or 12 hours on and 8 hours off) for all or part of a cruise or to work as hours are needed to accomplish the planned work. May need to travel during holidays and for long distances to and from foreign ports. May experience rudimentary living and working conditions, with shared and basic living quarters and laboratories. May experience bad or extreme weather conditions, including heavy seas, winter weather or hot, tropical weather. Work on deck may occur in both hot and cold conditions around the clock. Sea conditions will lead to active ship motion. Should be able to climb steep and vertical ladders and able to enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills. Should be able to carry heavy gear and participate in the loading and unloading of the ship as well as in the activities on deck and in the labs during the cruise. Shipboard environment may include: confined areas, shared sleeping quarters (berths) and bathroom facilities, small and basic berthing, fixed meal times and basic menus. Modest levels of heating, cooling, ventilation, and illumination, limited or no email and internet access and limited off-duty and recreational facilities (library, lounge, movies). May be exposed to potential allergens and irritants, including paint fumes. May experience constant and intermittent loud noises, and slippery and uneven surfaces.

WHOI is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans/M/F. We encourage Veterans and those with Disabilities to apply. Applications are reviewed confidentially. Applicants that require accommodation in the job application process are encouraged to contact us at (508) 289-2253 or email eeo@whoi.edu for assistance.