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
2026-07-01
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.
Find out more here.