Introduction

Applications are invited for a two-year postdoctoral research associate position related to Arctic coastal carbon cycling, in conjunction with a Horizon EU project (“POMP: Polar Ocean Mitigation Potential”; 2024-2027) focusing on emerging polar blue carbon habitats and climate change impacts on carbon cycling, storage and sequestration in polar marine ecosystems.

The position is based at the Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA)’s Department for Arctic Ecology in Tromsø (located at the Fram Centre for High North Research). In particular, this postdoctoral position will focus on understanding main controls (and potential climate impacts) on carbon uptake, mineralization, storage and potential sequestration in Arctic coastal ecosystems. The planned work will involve a combination of literature review, field observations and targeted experiments, with Svalbard as a main study site. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary group of Norwegian, European and Canadian partners working across several Arctic (and Antarctic) regions, and will have the chance to work in close collaboration with researchers (including early career researchers) from across the project consortium.

About NINA

The Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA) is Norway’s leading research institute for applied ecological research. NINA is an independent research institute with more than 350 employees. NINA is headquartered in Trondheim, and have research departments in Oslo, Lillehammer, Bergen and Tromsø, and research facilities for seabirds at Hjelmsøya and Røst, arctic fox at Oppdal and salmonid fishes at Ims. We have a wide range of expertise and experience in both natural science and social science research, including how various driving forces affect nature and the interactions between humans and nature. NINA is Norway’s leading research institute in applied ecology and collaborates extensively with other research communities nationally and internationally. For more information about NINA -www.nina.no.

This position is based at NINA’s Tromsø office, which has a strong Arctic research focus, including a broad range of research related to impacts of global change on northern ecosystems and societies, and a diverse group of researchers working with e.g. terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecology, social science, and environmental management. NINA Tromsø is located at the Fram Centre for High North Research (www.framsenteret.no), an international hub that brings together researchers from 20 different research institutes with a focus on interdisciplinary polar environmental research, giving unique opportunities for networking and collaboration. Tromsø is a dynamic and international Arctic city and is surrounded by spectacular nature and a broad range of opportunities for outdoor activities.

The position

This postdoctoral position is part of the POMP project (www.pomp-project.eu), which has an overarching focus on identifying and understanding emerging polar blue carbon habitats, with the ultimate goal of improved management and protection of carbon and biodiversity-rich habitats, including habitats with high current or potential future importance for carbon uptake, storage and long-term sequestration. This position is specifically linked to POMP activities focused on understanding climate change impacts on coastal carbon cycling, with a focus on the fate of major organic matter sources delivered to and/or produced in the coastal zone. In particular, the successful candidate will combine observational data and targeted experiments to help address important knowledge gaps regarding the fate and long-term storage (or remineralization) potential of carbon captured by coastal primary producers (e.g. kelp, phytoplankton, microphytobenthos, saltmarsh vegetation).

The selected candidate will be involved in a broad range of tasks including design, planning and implementation of field and experimental work in the coastal Arctic (especially in Svalbard); data analysis and dissemination of research results (including through scientific publications); review and synthesis of existing Arctic coastal carbon cycling data; and collaboration and regular communication with national and international project partners. There will also be space to shape the focus and approaches taken based on the interests and skills of the selected candidate.

This exciting position is well-suited for a postdoctoral researcher interested in coastal ecology and/or biogeochemistry, and understanding links between climate, biodiversity and carbon cycling and storage in a rapidly changing Arctic. The project provides a unique opportunity for carrying out cutting edge interdisciplinary research in the Arctic, while also building strong Norwegian and international research networks.

Expected start date is April 1, 2025 (or earlier, if possible).

Qualifications
The selected candidate must have:
• A PhD in a relevant field (e.g. biogeochemistry, aquatic/coastal ecology, environmental chemistry).
• Experience with field and lab work.
• Strong written and spoken English
• An ability to work well in a team, strong communication and time-management skills.

Additional relevant experience that is desirable, but not required, includes:
• Relevant research experience related to one or more of the following topics: coastal ecology and/or biogeochemistry; organic matter cycling; Arctic ecology; estuarine/delta ecosystem ecology.
• Experience with field work in Arctic and/or remote areas
• Experience designing and/or carrying out field and/or lab-based experiments
• Valid driver’s license.

NINA offers:
• a workplace in one of Europe's foremost environmental institutes
• salary by qualifications
• flexi-time scheme
• good pension scheme and group life insurance
• varied and interesting work at a leading research institute for applied ecology
• good opportunities for professional development
• a work and career development plan will be tailored for the candidate to ensure future employment prospects
• a pleasant working environment in modern premises of high standard

The application must contain:
• A cover letter outlining the candidate’s professional experience and interests that are relevant to the scope of the position.
• A curriculum vitae including information on education, professional experience, publications, presentations, and research grants. The successful candidate will be asked to submit certified copies of university transcripts and diplomas.
• Contact information for three referees who can speak in support of the qualifications of the candidate. Candidates will be notified before their referees are contacted.

Selected qualified candidates will be called in for an interview.

NINA works actively to build a positive, diverse and inclusive work environment. We encourage qualified candidates to apply regardless of e.g. gender, functional ability, cultural background or if you have been out of work for a period of time, etc. If necessary, the workplace will be adapted for people with disabilities.,NINA's everyday language is Norwegian, and language training is provided.

Questions about the position can be directed to: Research Director Amanda Poste,
phone +47 982 15 479.

Closing date: February 14, 2025

Norsk institutt for naturforskning jobs

Postdoctoral position in Arctic coastal carbon cycling