Postdoc position at MIT on Ocean Modeling and Transport

MPOWIR Mentoring Physical Oceanography Women to Increase Retention; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious research lab in Cambridge is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work on ocean modeling and transport. The position involves model development, analysis of Lagrangian transport, and collaboration on field experiments. Ideal candidates will have a doctoral degree in a related field and a strong background in geophysical fluid dynamics. Salary is commensurate with experience.

Qualifications

• Completed a doctoral degree in geophysical fluid dynamics, physical oceanography or a related field.
• Strong background in geophysical fluid dynamics, numerical analysis, and ocean modeling.
• Demonstrated effective written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Work on model development and analysis related to ocean transport and biochemical interactions.
• Study Lagrangian transport of inertial material and applications to drifters, sediment plumes, and debris transport.
• Collaborate with field experiments and participate in research cruises as opportunities arise.

Skills

Geophysical fluid dynamics

Numerical analysis

Ocean modeling

Effective communication skills

Education

Doctoral degree in geophysical fluid dynamics or related field

Job description

Overview

The Environmental Dynamics Lab (ENDLab) in Mechanical Engineering at MIT is seeking applicants for a postdoctoral position in ocean modeling and transport. The candidate will work on a combination of model development, analysis of Lagrangian transport of inertial material, and associated biochemical interactions. Applications include the behavior of ocean drifters, transport of sediment plumes, and transport of plastic and micro-plastic debris; the associated impact on ocean biology is an important consideration. The postdoc will directly interact with field experiments, and there will be opportunities to participate in research cruises.

Responsibilities

• Work on model development and analysis related to ocean transport and biochemical interactions.
• Study Lagrangian transport of inertial material and applications to drifters, sediment plumes, and debris transport.
• Collaborate with field experiments and participate in research cruises as opportunities arise.
• Engage in cross-disciplinary collaboration with lab and faculty members.

Qualifications

• Completed a doctoral degree in geophysical fluid dynamics, physical oceanography or a related field;
• A strong background in geophysical fluid dynamics, numerical analysis, and ocean modeling;
• Demonstrated effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with sediment and sediment plume dynamics, biochemical dynamics, and turbulence/LES modeling is desirable.

Application Materials

• Curriculum vitae with complete list of publications;
• A one-page statement of PhD research and future interests;
• Contact information of 3 references.
• The complete application package should be sent as a single pdf file to Prof. Thomas Peacock ([e-mail]).

Position Details

The position will be initially for 18 months and is renewable for an additional 6 to 12 months based on progress and performance. The salary would be commensurate with experience. Preferred starting date early Sept 2019.