Junior PhD Researcher (Postdoctoral) in Marine Sciences – Oceanographic Modelling for Spatial Management of Fishes and Shellfishes (Ocean-4FiSh Project)

The Institute of Marine Sciences – OKEANOS at the University of the Azores is offering a Junior PhD Researcher (postdoctoral) position to conduct advanced scientific research in the field of Marine Sciences. This opportunity is part of the Ocean-4FiSh project, which focuses on oceanographic modelling for the spatial management of fishes and shellfishes in the Azores. The project is funded by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT, I.P.) and aims to enhance the understanding of larval dispersal and population connectivity within the Azores marine ecosystem. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team and work under the supervision of Prof. Dr Régis Santos (Principal Investigator), with additional committee members including Prof. Dr Ana Martins, Dr Ana Margarida Faria, Dr Ualerson Iran Peixoto, and Prof. Dr Maria Manuela Juliano. The research will be based at the OKEANOS Institute, Horta Campus, University of the Azores, in Horta, Azores, Portugal. The main research activities involve implementing a three-dimensional hydrodynamic model to simulate regional ocean circulation and larval transport processes, integrating satellite and in situ data for model calibration. The researcher will also conduct biological sampling and parameterise particle-tracking dispersal simulations to analyse larval trajectories, settlement probabilities, and connectivity patterns between marine habitats. The outcomes will contribute to the assessment of ecological connectivity and inform the management and conservation of marine resources, particularly within the Azores Marine Protected Area Network (RAMPA). The position offers a gross monthly salary of €2,408.11 under an uncertain-term employment contract, with full-time dedication (35 hours per week). The contract is governed by the Portuguese Labour Code and relevant national legislation for scientific employment. The workplace is located in a vibrant research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaboration opportunities. Applicants must hold a PhD in Marine Sciences, Oceanography, Marine Ecology, or a related field, and demonstrate a strong scientific publication record, especially in physical oceanography, larval dispersal, population connectivity, or marine ecology. Experience in numerical modelling (hydrodynamic, biophysical, or particle-tracking), analysis of oceanographic and ecological data (spatial analysis, applied statistics), and proficiency in programming languages such as R, Python, or MATLAB are essential. The selection process is based on scientific and professional achievements, including research output, project participation, technical reports, and relevant experience in marine science research. Applications must be submitted in English and include a formal request, PhD certificate, thesis, publications, detailed CV, and a brief description of recent scientific activities. The application deadline is 26 March 2026. For further details and to apply, visit the official position page or contact the selection committee via the provided emails.