Ocean Career: WHOI Physical Oceanography Postdoctoral Investigator

Coastal Oceanographer Position

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.

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.

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.

Ph.D and prior experience working with oceanographic sensors and observational datasets.

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.

Salary range: $68,381-$75,498

Final date to receive applications:
August 24, 2026