Postdoctoral Fellow Ocean Optics Scattering Instrumentation

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Note:

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Position Summary:

The Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute (HBOI) at Florida Atlantic University is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow of Ocean Optics and Scattering Instrumentation. This is a grant-funded position located in Fort Pierce, FL. Continuation of grant funds after the first year is anticipated but not guaranteed. The Postdoctoral Fellow will develop next-generation instrumentation for measurement of the optical scattering in the ocean and contribute to work that will advance the understanding of the connections between particle properties and optical signatures in the environment, relevant to ocean biogeochemistry and remote sensing. May participate in work at the interface of ocean optics, marine biogeochemistry, and instrument engineering, including participation in field measurements, publication of research results, and collaboration with scientists and engineers working on optical approaches to ocean observation.

Summary of Responsibilities:

Design and testing of instrument subsystems, design and conduct of lab (breadboard) experiments, development of calibration and correction procedures, and analysis of optical measurements in the context of aquatic particle composition and biogeochemical processes. Provide leadership in submission and contribution to peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. May participate in coordination and/or participation in field deployments.

FAU Benefits and Perks:

If Benefits & Perks are important to you, then FAU is the place to be! Working at FAU has its perks! In addition to helping drive change and having a positive impact by supporting our students, staff, and faculty, FAU offers: Excellent benefit packages including Medical (PPO/HMO $50 per month single & $180 per month family), Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending plans, Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and much more. State retirement options including tax-deferred annuities and Roth 403(b) plans. State employees Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. Sick Leave Pool Program. Paid time off (eligible employees) including vacation and sick leave, 1 personal day, 9 paid holidays, and paid winter break (at President's discretion). Paid Community Engagement Volunteer Service Day Employee Educational Scholarship Program (EESP) for eligible Staff/Faculty•Tuition assistance after 6 months of full-time employment. For in-unit faculty, the EESP program may be extended to spouses and dependent children (eligibility rules apply). For details on FAU's amazing offers visit us at https://www.fau.edu/hr/benefits/index.php

Minimum Qualifications:

A Ph.D. from an accredited college or university in oceanography, electrical engineering, optical engineering, physics, or a related field is required.

Preferred Skills and Knowledge:

Familiarity and experience with optical components and assemblies, including lasers, laboratory testing and measurement (including data acquisition), and/or laboratory characterization of breadboard prototypes and instrumentation. Familiarity with optical simulation software such as Zemax OpticStudio, Ansys SPEOS, or Lambda Research TracePro, as well as basic CAD proficiency, is desirable. Ability to work both independently and as part of a research team, applying these skills to design and conduct laboratory experiments. Strong quantitative and analytical skills are essential. Proficiency in scientific programming and data analysis (Python, MATLAB, or similar) and strong English-language written and oral scientific communication skills. Experience with oceanographic field measurements is desirable.

Salary:

$60,000•$65,000 annually. This is a grant-funded position for one year, with continuation of funding possible but not guaranteed.

College or Department:

Research•

Ocean Optics and Biogeochemistry Location:

Harbor Branch (HBOI)

Work Days and Hours:

Monday•Friday, 8:00 AM•5:00

PM Application Deadline:

2026-04-24 Special Instructions to

Applicant:

This is a research or research-related support position. As required by Florida Statutes Section 1010.35, a Foreign Influence Screening may be required. This is a grant-funded position for one year, with continuation of funding possible but not guaranteed.

APPLICATION DOCUMENTS REQUIRED

1. Curriculum vitae. 2. A two-page statement of experience, career goals, and research interests. 3. Names and email addresses of three references who can provide a recommendation. 4. Reprint(s) of relevant publications.

OFFICIAL SEALED TRANSCRIPTS REQUIRED

The final candidate will be required to have official, sealed transcripts and original NACES evaluation, if applicable, sent from their educational institution to Human Resources prior to the start of employment.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENINGS REQUIRED

Selected candidates must successfully complete and pass all employment screenings prior to the start of employment. Employment screenings may include a criminal background check (level I and level II), motor vehicle check, credit check, reference checks, alcohol, and drug screening check.

REQUEST FOR ACCOMMODATIONS

Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations may contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX at 561-297-3004 or send an email at accommodate@fau.edu. To contact Human Resources, please call 561-297-3057. For communication assistance call 7-1-1. Florida Atlantic University is where your future begins. With over 30,000 students from all 50 states and over 180 countries, 21 intercollegiate teams, 180 plus degree programs, and an administration that thrives on discovery and excellence, Florida Atlantic University is pushing the boundaries of higher education. At FAU, the faculty and staff are trailblazers and innovators with a passion for finding creative solutions while advancing science, art and technology in all disciplines. Student success, excellence and community engagement are some of our highest values as a university. These values are prominent throughout FAU's community and are essential to the employee experience. FAU is committed to the principles of engaged teaching, research and service, and reflects this commitment as a key Platform in its 2015•2025 Strategic Plan. Our work environment is a hub of cultures from across the nation and the world, making FAU a place where collaboration flourishes. All persons aspiring to achieve excellence in the practice of these principles are encouraged to apply. To learn more about the vision and mission of FAU, please visit: www.fau.edu In order to be considered for a position, you must apply through this job website. For more information on how to apply for a position, please review the applicable Applicant Tutorial. To contact Recruitment Services, send an e-mail to jobs@fau.edu. Florida Atlantic University is an equal access/equal opportunity employer that complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination. If you require an accommodation to participate in any part of the recruitment process, please contact Florida Atlantic's Office of Civil Rights and Title IX at 561-297-3004 or send an email to accomodate@fau.edu. To contact Human Resources, please call 561-297-3057 or email jobs@fau.edu. For communications assistance, call 7-1-1. Clery Act Information Consumer Information Visit Florida Atlantic's Consumer Information page for more information about financial aid, its campus, facilities, student athletes, campus security, fire safety, as well as preventing drug and alcohol abuse. Paper copies are available upon request by contacting the Office of Student Financial Aid. Florida Statute 1010.35•Screening Foreign Researchers Pursuant to Florida law, any applicant or student seeking employment in a research or research-related support position who is a citizen of a foreign country and not a permanent resident of the U.S., or who is a citizen or permanent resident but is affiliated with or has had at least 1 year of employment or training in China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela, or Syria is subject to additional screening. Applicants meeting those criteria will be required to provide the following information before any offer of employment can be made: every institution of higher education attended; all previous employment since the applicant's 18th birthday; list of all published material, current and pending research funding from any source, including details about the research, your role, funding source, and amount; list and description of any non-university professional activities; any affiliation with an institution or program in a foreign country. Selected applicants will be required to provide additional information per the Statute, including a complete copy of your passport; and, if available, the most recently submitted DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application).