Postdoctoral Scholar, Staff Scientist, Marine Biophysics Unit (Mitarai Unit)
Conduct interdisciplinary research on typhoon–ocean–ecosystem interactions using autonomous platforms, numerical modeling, and field studies around Okinawa.
The position
We are seeking a highly motivated researcher to join an interdisciplinary project on typhoon–ocean–ecosystem interactions spanning open ocean, coastal, and coral reef environments around Okinawa. The position is open at either the postdoctoral or fixed-term staff scientist level, depending on experience (typically within 5 years of PhD for postdoctoral researchers, and more experienced candidates considered for staff scientist positions). The project combines autonomous observations under extreme conditions using a range of platforms (e.g., Wave Gliders, Aeroclipper systems, wave buoys, and other emerging autonomous or remotely operated platforms), numerical modeling (CROCO/SWAN and coupled biogeochemical models), and field-based studies to understand how energy and momentum from the atmosphere are transferred into the ocean and propagate across scales, as well as how these processes influence marine ecosystems. We welcome applicants with a background in physical oceanography, air–sea interaction, coastal or open-ocean dynamics, marine biogeochemistry, marine ecology, or related fields, particularly those interested in linking physical processes with biological responses and integrating observations and models. Experience with field observations, data analysis, numerical modeling, or ecological data interpretation is desirable, but strong quantitative skills and an interest in interdisciplinary research are equally valued.
Responsibilities
The project combines autonomous observations under extreme conditions using a range of platforms (e.g., Wave Gliders, Aeroclipper systems, wave buoys, and other emerging autonomous or remotely operated platforms), numerical modeling (CROCO/SWAN and coupled biogeochemical models), and field-based studies to understand how energy and momentum from the atmosphere are transferred into the ocean and propagate across scales, as well as how these processes influence marine ecosystems.
Requirements
Qualifications
Required
- The position is open at either the postdoctoral or fixed-term staff scientist level, depending on experience (typically within 5 years of PhD for postdoctoral researchers, and more experienced candidates considered for staff scientist positions).
Preferred
- Background in physical oceanography, air–sea interaction, coastal or open-ocean dynamics, marine biogeochemistry, marine ecology, or related fields.
- Interest in linking physical processes with biological responses and integrating observations and models.
- Experience with field observations, data analysis, numerical modeling, or ecological data interpretation is desirable, but strong quantitative skills and an interest in interdisciplinary research are equally valued.
Benefits
- Relocation, housing and commuting allowances
- Annual paid leave and summer holidays
- Health insurance (Private School Mutual Aid)
- Welfare pension insurance (kousei-nenkin)
- Worker's accident compensation insurance (roudousha-saigai-hoshou-hoken)
- Access to Child Development Center
- Access to Schooling Options
- Language Education
- Resource Center (Daily Life Support in Okinawa)
- Remote Work System
Additional Info
Employment Term
For Staff Scientist: Fixed-term appointment for 3 years (not renewal).
For Postdoctoral Scholar: Full-time, fixed-term appointment for 2 years. Contract initially with 6-month probationary period (inclusive). This contract may be renewed by taking into consideration the performance, conduct, and behavior of the Employee and OIST’s financial and other circumstances.
Working Hours
9:00-17:30 (Discretionary). Holidays: Saturday, Sunday, National holidays, and Year-end and New Year holidays (Dec. 29 – Jan. 3). Leave: Annual Paid Leave, Summer Leave, Sick Leave, and Special Leave. Overtime work hours: Discretionary Working Hours System: In the discretionary labor system for specialized work, the employee shall be deemed to have worked 7 hours 30 minutes per day.
Application Documents
- Cover letter (English)
- Curriculum vitae (English)
- Names and contact information of 2-3 referees, one of which should be a previous employer
- Please be sure to indicate where you first saw the job advertisement.
How to Apply
Apply by submitting your application documents to: kanako.gibo[at]oist.jp (Please replace [at] with @ before using this email address).
Declaration
- OIST Graduate University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action educator and employer and is committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty, students and staff.
- Information provided by applicants or references will be kept confidential in accordance to the OIST Privacy Policy; documents will not be returned.
- Recruiting Organization: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology School Corporation
- Prevention of Passive Smoking: No smoking indoors
- Please view our policy for rules on external professional activities: Rules for Concurrent Appointment.
- Further details about the University can be viewed on our website.
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