Post-doctoral Research Associate: Pioneering Arctic Ocean Soundscape Research
This is an exceptional opportunity for a driven and innovative Post-doctoral Research Associate to contribute significantly to our understanding of the Arctic Ocean's complex soundscapes. If you are passionate about cutting-edge scientific inquiry, possess strong analytical skills, and are eager to make a tangible impact on climate change research, this role is for you.
The Opportunity:
As a Post-doctoral Research Associate, you will be at the forefront of developing novel tools to analyze the soundscapes of the Arctic Ocean. Leveraging advanced techniques such as Deep Learning and Artificial Intelligence, you will delve into extensive long-term measurements from the European project HiAOOS ("High-Arctic Ocean Observing Systems") and other unique datasets. Your work will involve a fascinating interdisciplinary approach, comparing sounds from ice, biodiversity, and human impacts with a wide array of observations, from multi-purpose moorings to satellite data. This will enable you to gain profound new insights into the multifaceted effects of climate change on polar environments.
Beyond data analysis, this role emphasizes knowledge dissemination and capacity building. You will contribute by providing annotated datasets crucial for training and validating future AI tools. Furthermore, you will be instrumental in developing innovative training materials for polar scientists, utilizing platforms like JupyterLab and Docker packaging to create engaging Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs).
Key Advantages for Your Career Path:
- Cutting-Edge Research: Engage with state-of-the-art Deep Learning and AI methodologies applied to a critical environmental challenge.
- Impactful Contribution: Play a vital role in understanding and addressing the effects of climate change on fragile polar ecosystems.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work within an international and interdisciplinary setting, fostering a rich learning environment and expanding your network.
- Skill Development: Enhance your expertise in underwater acoustics, signal processing, AI, and scientific communication through hands-on experience and dedicated professional development.
- Knowledge Sharing: Develop your pedagogical skills by creating training materials and contributing to open online courses, establishing yourself as a thought leader.
- Publication Potential: Strong emphasis on publishing in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals, which is crucial for career progression in academia.
- Comprehensive Benefits: Access a wide range of benefits including professional development opportunities, generous leave, pension schemes, and a supportive work-life balance initiative.
- Supportive and Inclusive Environment: Join a university that actively celebrates diversity and inclusion, with a commitment to supporting staff from all backgrounds.
- Relocation Support: For international candidates, relocation allowances and visa assistance are available to ease the transition.
Key Considerations for Aspiring Candidates:
- Academic Foundation: A PhD degree in a relevant STEM discipline is a prerequisite.
- Technical Expertise: Proven experience in underwater passive acoustics and signal processing is essential.
- AI/Deep Learning Acumen: A strong understanding of the latest advancements in Deep Learning and AI, ideally applied to underwater sound analysis.
- Programming Proficiency: Solid programming skills, particularly in languages like Matlab or Python, will be highly beneficial.
- Domain Knowledge: A good grasp of ocean environments and a keen interest in the marine Arctic, including ice processes, animal vocalizations, and human impacts, are crucial.
- Research Independence: The ability to conduct independent research while collaborating effectively in a team setting is highly valued.
- Communication Skills: Demonstrated ability in oral presentations and technical report writing is expected.
- Fixed-Term Contract: Please note that this is a full-time, fixed-term position concluding in December 2027.
This role offers a unique platform to build a distinguished career in polar research, data science, and environmental monitoring. If you are ready to contribute to groundbreaking research and shape the future of Arctic Ocean science, we encourage you to explore this exciting opportunity.