Postdoctoral Investigator

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for one or more Postdoctoral Investigators to join the Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry Department. These are temporary, full-time, exempt positions, and are eligible for benefits. The initial appointment will be for one year with the possibility of a one-year extension.

We invite applications for one or more postdoctoral researchers in the area of environmental ‘omics, specifically in the field of linking metabolomics and proteomics. We use analytical chemistry to explore the intersection of microbial biology and chemistry within marine systems. This postdoctoral position will be shared between one lab focused on proteomics (Saito lab) and one lab focused on metabolomics (Kujawinski lab). Potential projects include: examining metabolites and proteins from a model marine phytoplankton, linking existing ‘omics datasets to examine the intersection of proteins and metabolites in the subtropical north Atlantic. The successful applicant will be trained in all aspects of environmental sample analysis, including sample processing, mass spectrometry, and data analysis. A PhD in chemical oceanography, biogeochemistry, analytical chemistry or a related field is required. Experience with mass spectrometry, metabolomics, proteomics, and downstream data analysis as well as knowledge of programming tools such as MATLAB, Python, or R would be advantageous. The position is available for one year, renewable for a maximum of two years. Review of applications will begin February 1, 2023 and continue until one position is filled. Inquiries should be addressed to ekujawinski@whoi.edu or msaito@whoi.edu

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 and email address of three people willing to write letters of recommendation. Applications will be reviewed upon submission.

• Research will include linking metabolomics and proteomics datasets, using data from model marine phytoplankton or in situ data from the north Atlantic Ocean
• Research results will be interpreted in biological and/or environmental contexts.
• The position could entail work with bacterial cultures, metabolite extraction, protein extraction, metabolite extraction, native chromatographic separations, informatics and data analysis, and plasma and electrospray mass spectrometry.
• Experience in these areas would be useful, although training will be provided.
  

REQUIRED:

• PhD in chemical oceanography, biogeochemistry, analytical chemistry, or related field;
• Ability to synthesize and interpret complex chemical and biological datasets;
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write scientific reports and publications and meet project milestones;
• Works well as part of a research team.

DESIRED

• Background in one or more of the following areas: bioanalytical and bioinorganic chemistry, organic geochemistry, mass spectrometry, microbiology
• Experience with ‘omics data and informatics, in particular proteomics informatics and/or metabolomics data analysis

• Position may include field work
• 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 occasional/prolonged standing/walking. Visual requirements to include depth perception. This position may be exposed to laboratory chemicals and solvents. Individual must be able to work in a group, as well as alone.  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.