Postdoctoral Scholar, Staff Scientist, Marine Biophysics Unit (Mitarai Unit)

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.

About OIST

The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University was established in 2011 to contribute to the development of science and technology worldwide and to serve as a hub of innovation in Okinawa. OIST is a dynamic new graduate university of science and technology in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan which offers a 5-year PhD program and brings together outstanding researchers from across the country and across disciplines to conduct cutting-edge scientific research.

The university is located on 85 hectares of protected forestland overlooking a beautiful shoreline and coral reefs. The campus is striking architecturally, and the facilities are outstanding. To facilitate multidisciplinary research, there are no academic departments. Outstanding resources and equipment are provided and managed to encourage easy access and collaboration.

English is the official language of the University, and the university research community is fully international, with more than 50 countries represented. OIST is rapidly gaining recognition in the worldwide academic community as a model for excellence in education and research, and our unwavering commitment to scientific and technological innovation is dedicated to generating progress that will fuel Okinawa's economic growth.

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.

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)

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.

Compensation and Benefits

For Staff Scientist: 

In accordance with the OIST Employee Compensation Regulations

*The amount will be determined based on the candite’s experience, skills and background.

 

For Postdoctoral Scholar:

Expected Annual Salary: 4.5M-5.9M yen

In accordance with the OIST Employee Compensation Regulations

 

Benefits:

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

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.
Job Type
Research
Starting Date
As early as possible
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.

Report to
Professor. Satoshi Mitarai
Job Location
Main Campus: 1919-1 Tancha, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa
Marine Science Station: 656-7 Seragaki-hara, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa
Application Deadline
Applications will be accepted until all positions are filled.
*Application will be closed once the position is filled.

We thank all those who apply but only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

If you have any questions, please contact us at