Postdoctoral Scholarships in AI-driven Marine Biology at Umeå University

Umeå University, through its Umeå Marine Sciences Centre (UMF), is offering two postdoctoral scholarships in the field of AI-driven marine biology. These positions are part of a strategic investment in applying artificial intelligence to advance marine research, conservation, and sustainability. The research will be conducted in an international, multidisciplinary environment, with affiliations to the Department of Ecology, Environment and Geoscience and collaborations with Sookmyung Women’s University, South Korea. Project 1 focuses on the growth dynamics of the world’s longest-lived algae, specifically coralline algae, which are vital for reef structures but threatened by climate change. The project combines high-resolution micro-CT imaging and AI-driven image analysis to reconstruct growth and reproduction over centennial timescales. Joint supervision is provided by Dr. Heidi Burdett, Dr. Eunju Cha, and Prof. Nicholas Kamenos. Project 2 investigates multi-model projections of coral reef survival under global warming. The project aims to improve long-term predictions of coral reef viability using AI-driven analysis to integrate and refine ecological models. Supervision is provided by Prof. Nick Kamenos, Dr. Eric Libby, Dr. Fredrik Ohlsson, and Dr. Heidi Burdett. Applicants must hold a PhD in a relevant field (e.g., computed tomography, image analysis, ecological modelling) and demonstrate experience in programming (Python, MATLAB) and AI-driven techniques. Additional merits include experience with tomography, biomineralization, deep learning, high-performance computing, and international collaboration. Proficiency in English is required. Applications should include a cover letter, CV, degree certificates, transcripts, thesis, and references, and be submitted in PDF format to [email protected]. The scholarships are funded by the Carl Tryggers Foundation and the Kempe Foundation, offering a tax-free stipend of 30,000 SEK/month for two years, with health cover and access to campus and computing resources. Applications are considered from March 16, 2026, until the positions are filled. The research environment is dynamic and inclusive, welcoming candidates from diverse backgrounds. For more information, visit the UMF open positions page or contact the project leads directly.