Job Opportunities
This page lists faculty, staff, postdoctoral fellow, and research associate opportunities. Graduate student research opportunities are posted on a separate webpage.
Research Associate in Oyster Microbiome Genomics
Position Summary
Applicants are invited for a Research Associate position in the Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of British Columbia. We are looking for a highly motivated and innovative researcher to join a multidisciplinary team on a project that seeks to understand the interplay between environmental stressors, genetic diversity and microbiome in shellfish aquaculture. The successful candidate is expected to develop and implement cutting-edge molecular methodologies for discovery of viral and microbial pathogens associated with environmental stress and mortality events in the Pacific oyster. The ideal candidate will have experience in processing of samples and analysis of data from amplicon deep sequencing and metagenomic sequencing to look at the composition of the entire oyster microbiome (dsDNA, ssDNA and RNA viruses; archaea, bacteria, fungi and protists). The successful candidate will be responsible for methods development and optimization, data generation, management, analysis and interpretation of NGS data; and will assist with drafting oral and written reports and publications submitted to peer-reviewed journals. The candidate is will work in close collaboration with a multi-disciplinary team and assist in training and mentoring graduate and undergraduate students, as well as junior researchers.
This is a one year appointment with the possibility of extension subject to budgetary approval. The start date will be February 1, 2019.
Qualifications
- PhD in viral ecology, microbial ecology, microbiology, virology, or a closely related field, with expertise in bioinformatics, and demonstrated experience in the application and interpretation of sequencing data to aquatic microbiology
- Experience in sample processing and library preparation for genomic, metagenomic and transcriptomic sequencing of cellular and viral microbial communities from invertebrates
- Strong laboratory skills in molecular biology, virology, microbiology and library preparation for amplicon deep sequencing
- Expertise and practical experience in analysis of large datasets from genomic, metagenomic, transcriptomic and amplicon deep-sequencing for viral (dsDNA, ssDNA and RNA viruses) and cellular (archaea, bacteria, fungi, protists) microbiome characterization of shellfish
- Proficiency using bioinformatics tools in environmental microbiology and virology, with the ability to develop bioinformatic pipelines using R, Python, Qiime, Mothur, BBmap, etc. for diverse types of sequencing data
- The candidate should be highly collaborative, self-motivated, team-oriented, and demonstrated oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to develop innovative and realistic/deliverable solutions to problems
How to Apply
Applicants should send a cover letter and curriculum vitae with contact information for three referees to Daphne Fogelman (dfogelman@eos.ubc.ca) by the closing date January 15, 2019.
UBC hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We especially welcome applications from visible minority group members, women, aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, and others with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.
Asst Professor (tenure-track) - geoscience
Three tenure-track faculty positions in Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of British Columbia
The Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences (EOAS) at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, invites outstanding applicants for one full-time, tenure-track faculty position in each of the three following fields:
1) Sedimentary geology: We seek a sedimentary geologist who integrates field- and laboratory-based research to investigate sedimentological processes and the evolution of sedimentary basins. Demonstrated ability to apply such research¿as is, or integrated with other earth science fields to gain novel insights into the tectonic evolution of Earth's crust is an asset. The ideal candidate will excel at teaching clastic sedimentology and field school in the undergraduate Geology program.
2) Earth surface processes: We seek a geoscientist who uses the field laboratory to formulate and test hypotheses to elucidate the processes that shape the Earth's (near-) surface. The position targets fields at the interface between the solid Earth and its surface environment, such as, geomorphology, neotectonics, soil system science and fluid-rock interaction. The ideal candidate will significantly contribute to field-based undergraduate teaching in the Geology program.
3) Earth system science: We seek a cross-disciplinary geoscientist who uses an innovative combination of field, analytical and numerical methods to investigate the mechanisms operating in the Earth system, past or present. Candidates whose research profile would demonstrably bridge between our existing strengths in earth, ocean and atmospheric science are specifically encouraged to apply. The ideal candidate will teach across our undergraduate geoscience programs.
The positions are at the rank of Assistant Professor, although it is possible that a position could be offered at a higher rank for an applicant with exceptional qualifications. A PhD degree is required and postdoctoral experience is considered important. Candidates are expected to develop a strong, externally funded and internationally recognized research program, successfully supervise graduate students, effectively teach undergraduate and graduate courses, and participate in departmental activities.
EOAS is a large and diverse department with research interests that span the evolution of Earth from core to stratosphere and a dedication to innovative teaching (www.eoas.ubc.ca). We seek candidates who will interact with research groups both within and outside the department, strengthen research ties with other parts of UBC's broad earth science community, and demonstrated potential to contribute to excellence in undergraduate and graduate teaching.
Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person.
UBC's strategic plan identifies inclusion as one of our key priorities. We welcome colleagues with the experiences and competencies that can contribute to our principles of inclusion, equity, and diversity throughout campus life.
How to Apply
Application packages should include:
i) a cover letter; you should indicate the search area that most closely aligns with your research
ii) a detailed curriculum vita
iii) a one-page summary of research interests and accomplishments
iv) a one-page outline of a potential five-year research program
v) a one-page statement of teaching philosophy
vi) three recent publications
vii) a statement describing your experience working with a diverse student body and your contributions to creating/advancing a culture of equity and inclusion on campus or within your discipline.
These should be combined into a single PDF document and be uploaded through the UBC Careers website at: www.facultycareers.ubc.ca/31614.
In addition, the names and contact details of three referees should be entered online here:
https://www.eoas.ubc.ca/content/geosearch
We will contact your referees and ask them to submit reference letters. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that their referees submit their letters before December 3, 2018. Review of applications will start December 3, 2018. The successful applicants are expected to start in July 2019 or at a date of mutual agreement. The positions are subject to final budgetary approval.
If you have questions, please contact the Search Committee Chair, Professor Dr. Maite Maldonado, by email at the following address: email:
Instructor Positions for Vancouver Summer Program
We are seeking instructors to teach/co-teach a course for the University of British Columbia Earth Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences department’s contribution to the Vancouver Summer Program (VSP). The VSP is a one month condensed summer program offered to international undergraduate students to come and experience life and classes at UBC. Instructors will be responsible for four weeks of teaching (July 13th – August 13th total 39 contact hours), course preparation (some materials will be provided), marking, and several social activities with the students during that period. The course is part of a package of two courses, each taught for 3 hours per day (with some days off in the week due to student’s social activities). The successful candidates will work closely with the lead instructor and their co-instructor to provide a cohesive package to the students. Our emphasis is on active learning teaching methods where students are inspired to explore the subject matter through field trips, labs, discussions, in-class activities, and as such there is some flexibility in the course design and progression.
The courses available are:
VSP Package A – The Dynamic Earth and Its Beautiful Treasures
We are seeking instructors for either the Earth’s Treasures section of this course or the Solid Earth portion of the course.
The Solid Earth section investigates earth's origin, composition, structure, and natural resources. Global and local examples of plate tectonics as the driving force for volcanism, mountain building, and earthquakes. Imaging Earth's interior and exploring its dynamic interaction with the surface. We also touch on Environmental geoscience and sustainability.
The Earth’s Treasures section investigates the formation, exploration, mining and aspects of marketing of gemstones and precious metals. We touch on topics such as fundamental scientific concepts, natural and synthetic gems and explore the world of fine jewelry. The origin, valuation and exploration strategies for gems such as diamonds and precious metals such as gold and platinum will be investigated here and placed into a fascinating international and Canadian geological context.
Experience teaching EOSC 110 The Solid Earth: Dynamic Planet or similar would be beneficial
Experience teaching EOSC 118 Earth’s Treasures: Gold and Gems or similar would be beneficial
VSP Science Package B – The Earth’s Oceans, Atmosphere and Climate
We are seeking instructors for the Ocean and Atmosphere Systems section of this course which assesses and quantifies the principal components of the global energy balance, how the energy balance affects the structure of the ocean and atmosphere and produces the winds and currents that control weather, air pollution and the biosphere. Students will examine ocean productivity and the important geochemical cycles of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorous, and how over geologic time ocean and atmospheric processes coupled with the evolution of the life to regulate climate and climate change.
Experience teaching EOSC 112 The Fluid Earth: Atmosphere and Ocean or similar would be beneficial
The shortlisted candidates will be interviewed and will be asked to prepare a 5-7 minute teaching presentation.
Please send your resume to VSP Coordinator, Alicia Warkentin (awarkentin@eoas.ubc.ca) and indicate the package that you are interested in teaching.
Assistant Professor (Tenure Track) - atmospheric science
The Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences (EOAS) at the University of British Columbia invites applicants for a full-time, tenure-track faculty position at the level of Assistant Professor. Applicants will have a PhD or equivalent experience in a related field and should be investigating processes relating to the field of atmospheric science, with research in the Earth's atmosphere or planetary atmospheres. All aspects of atmospheric science are of interest, including but not limited to, weather patterns and extreme events under climate change, fundamental processes in coupled climate systems, or boundary layer dynamics. The candidate will be expected to develop a strong, externally funded and internationally recognized research program, successfully supervise graduate students, participate in departmental activities and demonstrate the potential to participate and collaborate in the atmospheric sciences programme. EOAS is dedicated to practicing excellence in teaching and evidence demonstrating interest in innovative teaching methods is desirable, along with demonstrated potential for teaching excellence.
Research and teaching interests in EOAS, the top-ranked and largest Earth Sciences department in Canada, span the history of the Earth and the evolution of its structure from core to stratosphere (http://www.eoas.ubc.ca/). We seek candidates who complement existing departmental strengths and have capacity and interest in interacting with other research groups both within and outside the department. Candidates should possess a strong record of research productivity commensurate with their experience.
Applications should include: i) a cover letter, ii) a detailed curriculum vita, iii) a one-page summary of research interests and accomplishments, iv) a one-page outline of a potential five-year research program, v) a one-page statement of teaching philosophy, vi) three recent publications and vii) three (3) letters of reference. Directions for how to submit your application can be found at https://www.hr.ubc.ca/careers-postings/faculty.php posting #31310.
In addition, the names and contact details of three referees should be entered here: https://www.eoas.ubc.ca/content/atscirefsub. We will contact your referees and ask them to submit reference letters. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure their referees submit their letters before November 1, 2018.
Review of applications will start November 1, 2018 and applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The successful applicant is expected to start in July 2019 or at a date of mutual agreement. This position is subject to final budgetary approval.
Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person.
Questions should be directed to the Search Committee Chair, Professor Raymond Andersen, by email at
Canvas Rovers
The Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences is looking for two (2) Graduate Academic Assistants to serve as “Canvas Rovers” during the fall term.
The purpose of these positions is to help instructors on an as-needed bases with setting up material and course content in the new system. The rovers need to be willing to learn the canvas system thoroughly as they will be the “go-to” canvas people within the department.
Job duties include:
- Attend canvas training sessions and become familiar with the system
- Work with instructors to set up content
- Be available to meet with instructors throughout the term
This position would start approximately a week before term (August 27th, 2018) and run through the end of Term 1 (December 19th, 2018). The position may be extended into Term 2.
Hours and pay:
- Hours to be determined by amount of help needed, maximum of 10 hours/week
- $31.92/hour
Ideally, the persons holding these positions would have Teaching Assistant experience and be comfortable with computers.
If interested, please fill out the included application and email it to Dana Caudle (headsec@eoas.ubc.ca) by 4:00pm on August 20th.
Post-doctoral Position in Oil Spill Modelling with MEOPAR
The Department of Earth, Ocean & Atmospheric Sciences at the University of British Columbia invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in the eld of numerical modelling of oil spills in the coastal ocean. The successful applicant will conduct research as part of MIDOSS (Model of Impact of Dilbit and Oil Spills in the Salish sea). MIDOSS is a three year project funded by MEOPAR to improve our scientific knowledge and tools to support evidence-based planning both in preparation for, and in response to, an oil spill in the Salish Sea.
MEOPAR (meopar.ca) is an NSERC Network of Centres of Excellence and oers a training program and other benefits.The position is for one-year, renewable for a second year, and preferred start date is September 2018. The application deadline is Jun 5, 2018 but will be extended if a suitable candidate has not been found.
Project and Responsibilities
Shipping associated with Canada's largest port, Vancouver, is increasing. The proposed Trans Mountain pipeline expansion will bring a more than six-fold increase in the number of tankers transiting the Salish Sea, and they will be carrying diluted bitumen (Dilbit). MIDOSS will improve modelling of Dilbit in the coastal ocean, prediction of near-surface currents, and risk communication strategies for the diverse decision-making groups involved. MIDOSS will produce risk exposure products to aid in community planning and in mapping ecosystem vulnerability. In addition, MIDOSS will produce predictions of strong currents and extreme high/low water for pilots to help reduce ship accidents.
The post-doctoral fellow (pdf) will develop the oil spill exposure product and in the process will implement a coupled oil spill prediction system and evaluate it. Specifically, the pdf will develop a stochastic modelling framework, probably using Monte Carlo methods, for varying spill location, and the high-performance computing work ow to facilitate computational demand. The fellow will assist in coupling the MOHID oil spill model in the SalishSeaCast operational framework. They will assist two graduate students in evaluating
the system by hindcasting a series of documented small spills. They will work with the third student to integrate the stochastic simulations into oil spill risk exposure products for stakeholders.
The project is cross-country and cross-discipline. The successful applicant will be primarily supervised by Prof. Susan Allen, and will also interact with Prof. Stephanie Chang (UBC) particularly on the risk exposure products and Prof. Haibo Niu (Dalhousie University) particularly on the MOHID oil spill model.
Additional responsibilities will include: reporting to MEOPAR, publication of the results in peer-reviewed international journals and partial supervision of undergraduate and/or
graduate students working on other aspects of the project.
Minimum Qualifications and Experience
A Ph.D. together with a strong background in numerical modelling of ocean ows and interest in risk communication, particularly in producing risk information products that would be useful to a range of non-academic stakeholders. Candidates with experience using NEMO
and/or ocean oil spill models are preferred. The position is for one-year, renewable for a second year, and preferred start date is September 2018. Salary is commensurate with educational level and experience; the minimum salary is $48,000 per year plus benefits.
How to Apply
Applications, including a CV, copies of two relevant publications, and the names, e-mails and phone numbers of three referees should be sent to Dr. Susan Allen (
).
The application deadline is Jun 5, 2018 but it will be extended if a suitable candidate has not been found.
UBC hires on the basis of merit and is committed to employment equity. All qualified persons are encouraged to apply. We especially welcome applications from members of visible minority groups, women, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, persons of minority
sexual orientations and gender identities and others with the skills and knowledge to engage productively with diverse communities. Canadians and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority.