Post-Doctoral Associate in the Division of Science [Biology] – Mesophotic Corals – Dr. John Burt

The Burt Lab at New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) is seeking a talented Postdoctoral Researcher to join our team in a project focused on the identification of corals and other associated invertebrates in mesophotic habitats using a combination of morphological and molecular techniques. The selected candidate will take the lead in conducting a sampling survey in the Arabian Gulf, Sea of Oman and Indian Ocean. Given the region’s intricate hydrography and climate regime, the project aims to document and identify corals specifically in mesophotic habitats, drawing comparisons with shallow waters. The successful applicant will collaborate with a larger team of researchers exploring various aspects of coral biology, for example investigating host-associated microbial assemblages and more.

The candidate will operate under the supervision of Prof. John Burt, head of the NYUAD Marine Biology Lab, and will be affiliated with the Mubadala Arabian Center for Climate and Environmental Sciences (ACCESS), working with a growing team of Post-doctoral Researchers, Research Assistants, and Aquarists/Technicians who are collaboratively investigating the biology of the uniquely adapted corals and other reef fauna from the Arabian Gulf. In the interdisciplinary ACCESS research center, where Burt serves as co-PI, the candidate will collaborate closely with researchers across several NYUAD units including ACCESS, the Center for Genomics and Systems Biology (CGSB), the Water Research Center (WRC), and the CITIES Center, thus integrating into a diverse and dynamic team with research spanning genomics and molecular biology to ecosystem-level ecology.

The position will be for two years and will begin in mid-2024 (between May – July, with some flexibility for the right candidate).

Principle Responsibilities

• Manage own academic research and administrative activities. This involves small scale project management, to coordinate multiple aspects of work to meet deadlines.
• Develop and organize field surveys aimed at documenting corals and associated invertebrates in mesophotic habitats.
• Document, curate, and maintain appropriate databases of the specimens. This includes involvement in all stages of field work planning, organization, data and sample collection, processing and cataloging, laboratory and museum work.
• Utilize morphological and advanced molecular techniques (barcoding, UCE, genome skimming, etc.) to identify and analyze the genetic diversity of mesophotic coral species. This involves a deep focus in biogeography and possible population connectivity.
• Preparation of peer-reviewed manuscripts for journals of high international standing.
• Contribute to stakeholder presentations and reports where appropriate.
• Actively collaborate with other post-doctoral researchers and participate in research on related aspects of the larger program with colleagues in partner institutions.
• Traveling to the field locations for sampling and for meetings and workshops as necessary.

Required Education, Certifications, Licensing Or Training

• PhD in biological sciences, biology, taxonomy, zoology, related to marine invertebrates specially octocorallia/scleractinia (must be completed by May 2024)
• Taxonomy and systematic expertise in marine invertebrates (Octocorals, Scleractinians) in shallow and mesophotic coral reef habitats
• Familiarity with the marine fauna of the Indo-Pacific, particularity cnidarian fauna of North-West and West Indian Ocean (Persian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Red Sea)
• Advanced SCUBA certification with research-based diving experience
• Drivers license in home country

Preferred Certifications, Licensing Or Training

• Boat operator certification would be an asset
• Scientific Diver (e.g. AAUS) certification would be an asset

Required Work And Related Experience

• Demonstrated competence in systematic and taxonomy with track records of descriptions of new species

(Octocorallia, Scleractinia), with a track-record of first-author publications relevant to the position

• Experience in conducting marine surveys, and participating in large scale marine invertebrate biodiversity expeditions
• Experience and ability to plan, organize and conduct scientific field surveys and marine biodiversity projects
• Experience in lab techniques in molecular biology/genetics
• Experience in ecological with statistical analyses/bioinformatics

Preferred Work And Related Experience

• Experience in habitat mapping using UAV’s, multi-beams or Side Scan Sonars
• Experience with coral collection using ROV and Submersibles in mesophotic/deep water habitats
• Experience in Natural History museums, handling and cataloging biological specimens
• Multi-omics and coral physiology experience would be an asset
• Supervision experience of students and/or research staff

Applications must be submitted via Interfolio by 20 February 2024; interviews will be conducted over the following two weeks for those selected. The application should consist of a 1-2 page cover letter elaborating the candidate’s background, as well as how each qualification criterion is met. Also include a detailed curriculum vitae, including contact information for three references.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of security, health, and reference checks, among other HR processes. The position is for a two- or three-year fixed-term contract, potentially renewable subject to performance. The compensation package is highly competitive and fully tax-free, including benefits such as housing allowance, annual flights, healthcare, and provisions for dependents. Join the Burt Lab to engage in a dynamic international work environment, set in a location that is unparalleled for climate change research.

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