Post-Doctoral Associate in Marine Spatial Ecology and Habitat Mapping
Lead cutting-edge marine spatial ecology research to inform fisheries management and conservation in the UAE.
Best for:Best for postdoctoral researchers with expertise in marine ecology, spatial data analysis, and GIS, seeking to contribute to applied conservation science and policy in a dynamic international research setting.
Overview
This postdoctoral position at New York University Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala Arabian Center for Climate and Environmental Sciences (ACCESS) focuses on advancing marine spatial ecology and habitat mapping to support fisheries management and conservation initiatives in the United Arab Emirates. The successful candidate will collaborate with Emirates Nature–WWF and government partners to develop innovative data-driven solutions for identifying productive fishing grounds and restoring marine habitats. The role combines fieldwork, spatial data analysis, and stakeholder engagement to translate scientific findings into actionable policy and conservation strategies. Applicants should have a strong background in marine science, spatial analysis, and GIS, along with hands-on experience in marine field surveys and habitat mapping technologies. The position offers a multidisciplinary environment with opportunities for mentorship, proposal development, and peer-reviewed publications.
What you'll do
- Develop and implement workflows for habitat characterization using bathymetric datasets, side-scan sonar, remotely sensed imagery, and GIS to produce habitat maps and ecological indicators.
- Integrate environmental monitoring data, fisheries information, and spatial datasets to identify ecological drivers of productive fishing grounds.
- Design and execute marine field campaigns, including participation in surveys and data collection using tools like CTDs, multiparameter sondes, and environmental sensor networks.
- Establish robust data management and quality assurance workflows for spatial and biological datasets.
- Prepare scientific manuscripts, technical reports, maps, visualizations, and presentations for project partners and government stakeholders.
- Engage with Emirates Nature–WWF, government agencies, and stakeholders to communicate research findings and translate science into policy and management outcomes.
- Mentor junior researchers and students, participate in proposal development, and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to advance applied research initiatives focused on marine conservation and habitat restoration.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD in Marine Science, Marine Ecology, Oceanography, Environmental Science, Geography, Spatial Ecology, or a closely related discipline, with no more than five years of post-PhD experience.
Language: English; proficiency required for communication, collaboration, and reporting.
Instruction: English
Publications: Strong publication record in marine ecology, habitat mapping, fisheries ecology, or environmental science.
- Experience conducting independent marine spatial analyses and developing habitat maps using marine datasets.
- Proficiency in spatial modeling and statistical software such as R, Python, or MATLAB.
- Familiarity with GIS, side-scan sonar, multibeam bathymetry, underwater imagery, and remote sensing technologies.
- Experience integrating biological, environmental, and spatial datasets.
- SCUBA certification and hands-on experience conducting marine field surveys.
- Familiarity with environmental monitoring equipment like CTDs and multiparameter sondes.
- No more than five years of post-PhD experience.
- Emirati candidates are encouraged to apply in line with UAE regulations.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-24
Applicants must submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, transcript of degree or copy of highest degree, and a research statement, all in PDF format. Contact information for two references will be requested from shortlisted candidates. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- Transcript of degree or copy of highest degree
- Research statement
- Contact information for two references (requested from shortlisted candidates)
Contact
Kelly Bradham· Hiring Contact
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