News & Events

High Arctic Polynyas in a changing climate: international workshop (22 – 24.11.2021, Copenhagen, Denmark) 

We are pleased to announce the 2-day international hybrid workshop ‘High Arctic polynyas in a changing climate’, which will be held in Copenhagen, Denmark, from the 22nd – 24th of November 2021.  

Polynyas provide biological oases in the polar regions and their formation is influenced by the complex interplay between atmospheric and oceanographic forcing, as well as geographical setting. Reconstructions and observations demonstrate these phenomena were and are vulnerable to the impacts of changing climate in the Arctic; the question remains as to their viability (and how to predict this) in the future.  

The aim of this interdisciplinary workshop is to bring together researchers from the paleo-community (working with e.g., marine and lacustrine proxies) and the modelling community to consolidate existing knowledge through a combination of short talks and poster presentations. Open format panel discussions will aim to identify emerging perspectives and challenges in arctic polynya research as well as areas for synthesis, collaboration, and opportunities for data-model assimilation.  

Please indicate your interest in attending via email to Rebecca Jackson ( ) indicting 1) whether you will be attending in person/online, 2) preference of poster/short talk and 3) a brief abstract (350 words max.). The deadline for abstracts is 27.10.2021, after which the workshop schedule and details will be announced. Participation in the workshop is free of charge and there is limited financial support for travel for early career researchers from abroad wishing to attend in person.  

Employment & Opportunities

PhD position in paleoceanography and paleogenomics - NORCE in Bergen (Norway) 

We have a 3-year PhD position available at the Norwegian Research Centre (NORCE) in a research project funded by the Research Council of Norway. The project focuses on the interaction between sea ice and Antarctic ice shelves on geological timescales. We will use different paleoceanographic proxies (microfossil assemblages, biomarkers and ancient DNA) to reconstruct the sea ice and ice shelf history in the Weddell Sea over the last ca. 130,000 years. The project is a collaboration with researchers from AWI-Bremerhaven, University of Plymouth, University of Glasgow and the University of Tasmania.

The prospective PhD candidate will work with sedimentary ancient DNA for reconstructing the Late Quaternary Antarctic paleoceanography, sea ice and ice shelf environments. Specifically, the work involves extracting environmental and ancient DNA from sediments in our ancient DNA lab in Bergen. This will be followed by metabarcoding of eukaryote communities and quantitative molecular analyses, bioinformatics and statistical analyses. The candidate will interact with the international team members to integrate the different datasets (microfossil assemblages, biomarkers and aDNA) to improve our understanding of sea ice and ice self interaction. International research stays are planned.

NORCE is one of Norway’s largest independent research institutes and a partner of the Bjerknes Centre for Climate Research, a leading international climate research centre. NORCE Climate and Environment conduct both basic and applied research on the past, present and future climate system, on anthropogenic climate change and its impact on societies, and on the feasibility of climate change mitigation options. The working environment at NORCE and the Bjerknes Centre is highly international.

Further information about the position and application process can be found here.

Full-time Clumped Isotope Lab Manager - University of Michigan

Research Laboratory Technician Lead at University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI:

The SCIPP (Stable and Clumped Isotopes for Paleoclimate and Paleoceanography) Lab (PI: Asst. Prof. Sierra Petersen) in the Earth and Environmental Sciences Department of the University of Michigan is looking to hire a full-time Research Laboratory Technician Lead beginning October 2021 or later. The SCIPP Lab operates out of the UM Stable Isotope Lab, a fully-renovated 3-PI shared lab space. We operate two mass spectrometers: 1) a Nu Perspective + NuCarb for automated clumped isotope analyses, and 2) a Thermo MAT 253 for oxygen isotopes in water samples. We have a diverse and active lab group of undergrad and grad students and also analyze samples for colleagues and collaborators around the world. 

Day to day responsibilities include:

• Oversee daily operations for a lab that operates two (2) mass spectrometers, including sample preparation and analysis, data quality control, instrument troubleshooting and repair, and compliance with safety standards.
• Train and assist graduate and undergraduate students on the mass spectrometers and other lab equipment including demonstrating various laboratory techniques and best practices for the instruments.'
• Responsible for preparing standard materials, keeping consumable supplies in stock, organizing shared usage of equipment, and maintaining a clean and organized lab environment. 

Required qualifications: Bachelor's degree in a natural science discipline such as earth science, chemistry, or environmental sciences or engineering with secondary educational knowledge in geoscience as a plus. The candidate should have experience and expertise in stable isotopic analysis of carbonate materials or similar, diagnosing and repairing complex lab equipment, laboratory management, and standard lab safety protocols. The ideal candidate is organized, has a strong attention to detail, and the ability to both work well with others in a shared lab space environment and operate independently to keep the lab running. 

Desired Qualifications (not required): Master's degree and/or previous working experience with Nu Perspective + NuCarb and Thermo MAT 253 instruments and/or the clumped isotope technique or similar. 

The salary range for this position is $38,900 - $48,600. Wage will be determined based on candidate qualifications. 

To apply Contact Prof. Petersen by email at . Please provide a CV and a cover letter describing relevant prior experience and/or particular reason for interest in the position (if appropriate). We will begin reviewing applications September 30, 2021, continuing until the position is filled. 

PhD opportunities - University of Cambridge and British Antarctic Survey

The University of Cambridge Climate, Life and Earth (C-CLEAR) Doctoral Training Partnership (funded by NERC) is open for applications for students wishing to start PhD research in October 2022. The closing date is January 6th at noon.  Supervisors have posted PhD project descriptions, and you are invited to view the ones in the area of climate science at here. Projects within this theme are available with lead supervisors in Chemistry, DAMTP (Maths), Earth Sciences, Geography, Plant Sciences, Scott Polar Research Institute and in the British Antarctic Survey.

The NERC C-CLEAR DTP and University of Cambridge actively support equality, diversity and inclusion and we encourage applications from eligible applicants from all sections of society, particularly from universities and backgrounds that may be underrepresented at the University of Cambridge.

For a full list of projects and information on how to apply see the C-CLEAR DTP website. The application deadline is Thursday 6 January 2022 at 12:00 pm noon GMT (including supporting documents, ie. references). If you are interested in working with a particular supervisor or on a particular topic, please see our searchable list of projects.

As well as funding UK students, the C-CLEAR NERC DTP will be able to offer a limited number of studentships to international students.

Contract Opportunities for Students/Youth - Canadian Parks Collective project

The Canadian Parks Collective for Innovation and Leadership (CPCIL) is seeking youth/students (aged 15-30) from Oct. to Dec. 2021 and Jan. to Mar. 2022 to assist with two projects: a) participatory research on equity, diversity, and inclusion related to all aspects of parks and protected areas science, research, and management in Canada, and b) support for a community of park practitioners, community partners, researchers, and students through knowledge mobilization, online resource content, and support for leadership programs. These contracts are funded in part by Project Learning Tree and Canada’s Green Jobs program for youth ages 15 to 30 years of age.

CPCIL will only succeed in understanding and challenging systemic privilege and oppression if we represent a diversity of people equitably. Applicants who can add underrepresented perspectives (e.g., women, youth, BIPOC, LGBTQTS+, or persons with disabilities) are encouraged to apply.

Current opportunities:

While contractors are free to take on additional outside work, the amount of time expected to reach the deliverables is variable. It is anticipated it would take most contractors approximately thirty-two hours per week for contracts A&B (at $25/hour) and ten to twenty hours per week for contract C (at $22/hour).

A. Parks and Protected Areas Youth Communications Coordination

B. Parks and Protected Areas Youth Knowledge Gatherers Coordination

C. Parks and Protected Areas Youth Knowledge Gathering (four to six)

About CPCIL

The Canadian Parks Collective for Innovation and Leadership (CPCIL) is a collaborative project funded by the Canadian Parks Council, which represents Canada’s federal, provincial, and territorial park agencies. CPCIL delivers leadership programs and collaboration services aimed at connecting parks and protected areas practitioners and researchers and supporting effective and equitable park leadership.

Application Process:

Please review the project details and provide a one-page letter outlining how your education and experience are related to this scope of work to by October 8, 2021. This letter will also be considered as a writing sample. Please include the contract you are applying for in the subject line.

For questions, please contact

PhD and Postdoc Opportunities in Arctic and Mid-Latitude Paleoclimatology - University at Buffalo, starting Summer or Fall 2022

We are seeking PhD students and/or postdocs to join our team to study past and modern climate change in the Arctic and the Laurentian Great Lakes region. The UB Paleoclimate Dynamics Lab's role on these interdisciplinary, NSF-funded projects is to calibrate paleoclimate proxies, validate and use proxy system models, and generate paleoclimate records, with a focus on the water cycle's response to warming. We are collaborating with researchers conducting proxy data synthesis and climate and ice sheet modeling. There are opportunities to participate in field work and in outreach activities in Buffalo. 

We are looking for highly motivated researchers with excellent communication skills in English (written and oral), and with experience with, or a strong interest in developing skills in, numerical modeling and scientific programming skills. We encourage candidates from groups underrepresented in the geosciences (including, but not limited to, black, indigenous, and people of color) to apply; we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members. 

For more information, please visit here or email . Reach out to Dr. Thomas’ current and former students for information about our graduate program and life in Buffalo.

Prospective graduate students: apply by December 15, 2021, click here for details. Prospective postdoctoral scholars: please email Dr. Thomas directly with descriptions of your interests and background, and attach your CV.

Tenure-Track Assistant Professor Positions in Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Science - Florida State University

The Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Science (EOAS) at the Florida State University (FSU) invites applications for 3 tenure-track Assistant Professor positions:

(1) Aqueous Trace Element Biogeochemistry/Chemical Oceanography (49933): The ideal candidate will examine the role of trace elements in the oceans or other aquatic environments, their role in biogeochemical cycles, and/or their impact on the biosphere as toxins. This research may include but is not limited to processes within the air-sea interface, water-column, bottom waters, and/or pore fluids. The hire will work in the new (January 2020) EOAS building with a state-of-the-art trace metal lab, as well as with advanced analytical instrumentation (multiple ICP-MS’s and Neptune MC-ICP-MS) at FSU’s National High Magnetic Field Laboratory. The appointee is also expected to contribute to the department’s strong commitment to the Oceanography and Environmental Sciences programs.

(2) Earth-Life Interactions (49940): The ideal candidate will investigate the coevolution of life and environment with potential interests in planetary habitability of Earth and exoplanets, biosignatures for life (radiations and extinctions), and implications for modern climate change. Research areas of interest include but are not limited to: paleobiology, geobiology, extinction dynamics, paleoecology, paleontology, biotic responses to global change, geomicrobiology, and biogeochemistry.

(3) Cloud Microphysics and Aerosols (49937): The ideal candidate will have expertise in cloud microphysics, aerosols, and their impacts on weather, climate, and the environment. The research areas of interest include, but are not limited to, clouds and aerosols, their interactions with each other, representations in models, and impacts on atmospheric radiation, tropical cyclones, extreme weather, atmospheric chemistry, air quality, and the environment.

Appointees are expected to teach courses and contribute to both the undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the department and to develop and maintain a vigorous externally funded research program in their specialty area of interest. Candidates must hold a Doctoral degree or the highest degree appropriate in Geosciences or a related field.

EOAS, housed in a new building (2020) with state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories, has approximately 40 faculty members, and 135 graduate students, a diverse student population, and offers undergraduate and/or graduate degrees in Geology, Meteorology, Oceanography, and Environmental Sciences. For additional information on EOAS and FSU’s resources, please check here.

Applicants should submit to the appropriate job opening to here a cover letter, curriculum vitae, contact information for three references, and statements on research, and teaching interests, and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Review of applications commences November 1, 2021 and will continue until the positions are filled. Women and members of minority groups are especially encouraged to apply.

Inquiries may be addressed to the chairs of the search committees, Prof. Angela Knapp (Aqueous Trace Element Biogeochemistry, , opening 49933), Prof. Yang Wang (Earthlife interaction, , opening 49940) and Prof. Guosheng Liu (Cloud Microphysics/aerosol interaction, , opening 49937).

Advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values at FSU and the Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Science. Our excellence can only be fully realized when we share our commitment to these values.

FSU is An Equal Opportunity/Access/Affirmative Action/Pro Disabled & Veteran Employer. FSU’s Equal Opportunity Statement can be viewed at here.

Postdoctoral Fellowship Opportunity - Rice University

The Department of Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences at Rice University is inviting applications for the Pan Postdoctoral Research Fellowship. We are seeking candidates with independent research interests that intersect with one or more faculty within our department and who contribute positively to the diversity of the department through outreach or other means. Both domestic and international applicants are welcome. A Ph.D. is required at the time of appointment, but candidates must have received their Ph.D. no more than 3 years before their start date at Rice.

The research fellowships will be supported for two years, pending satisfactory progress during the first year, and covers an annual stipend of $60,000 with a benefits package and an additional annual discretionary research allowance of $3,500. Applicants are requested to develop a proposal of research to be undertaken during the fellowship period. The principal selection criteria are scientific excellence, a clearly expressed research plan to address questions at the forefront of their field of study, research synergies with at least one faculty, and a commitment to fostering diversity in their field of research. The proposed research should encompass independent research ideas and explore new directions beyond the applicant’s Ph.D. Preference will be given to applicants whose proposals demonstrate independence and originality, and also the potential for collaboration with one or more faculty in the Department of Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences.

Applicants are required to submit:

1. A current CV, including a list of publications
2. A brief synopsis of the applicant’s doctoral dissertation (no longer than one page)
3. A brief diversity statement that explains the applicants’ interest in, experience with, and/or planned commitment to addressing issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion in their field of research (no longer than one page) 
4. A concise research proposal (no longer than three pages, including figures, excluding references) describing the applicants research interests, specifically the research that the applicant would like to pursue at Rice 
5. The names of potential Rice faculty who could serve as postdoctoral mentors

All five documents should be submitted as a single PDF file to the fellowship search committee ( ) by 3 November, 2021. In addition, letters of reference should be submitted by three referees to the same email address and by the same deadline.

The highest ranked applicants will be invited for an interview. Following acceptance, the appointment may begin anytime before 1 January, 2023. For further information or questions contact the search committee at .

Rice University is located in Houston, Texas, and is a private, coeducational, nonsectarian university that aspires to path-breaking research, unsurpassed teaching, and contributions to the betterment of our world. Rice fulfills this mission by cultivating a diverse community of learning and discovery that produces leaders across the spectrum of human endeavor. Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer with commitment to diversity at all levels and considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status.

Postdoctoral Position - Queen’s University

The Department of Civil Engineering, Queen’s University at Kingston, invites applications for a 1-year postdoctoral fellowship (PDF) position in Environmental Fluid Mechanics. The position may be renewed for a second year. The PDF will work on numerical modelling of the Great Lakes as part of an interdisciplinary multi-agency project. Qualified candidates should have a doctoral degree in a relevant subject (Engineering, Physics/Oceanography, Mathematics, Physical Sciences), working knowledge of lake/ocean models and familiarity with Matlab. Salary to be commensurate with experience. The application should include: 

• a brief statement of research interests and experience (~250 words)
• a curriculum vitae including a list of publications
• names and contact information for two academic referees

The deadline for applications is 1 November 2021. It is anticipated the starting date will be in early 2022. Please send your application via email to Leon Boegman at 

Teaching Faculty in Environmental Science - Johns Hopkins University

Position Description: The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at Johns Hopkins University invites applications for a Teaching Faculty position in Environmental Science. This position includes leadership of and teaching duties in the department’s Environmental Science and Studies (ENVS) undergraduate program (https://krieger.jhu.edu/envs/). Strong candidates will have interest and experience in teaching relevant science-oriented courses with field- and lab-based learning components, the ability to manage the inter/transdisciplinary nature of the program, and an interest in engaging with justice, equity, diversity and inclusion (JEDI) work related to the program. Teaching load averages five courses per year, including introductory courses in environmental science; the ability to teach GIS is a plus. Other responsibilities include student advising and some committee service.

The position will be filled at the Senior Lecturer, Associate Teaching Professor, or Teaching Professor level, as appropriate, starting as early as summer of 2022. Associate Teaching Professors and Teaching Professors are accomplished teachers who have a record of achievement in curriculum development, pedagogical innovation, program leadership, and service to the profession. The successful candidate will not be eligible for tenure, but will be appointed for 3 to 5 years, depending on rank, with continuing contract renewals and promotion expected. The successful candidate will receive a competitive salary and benefits.

Qualifications: A Ph.D. is required in a relevant discipline; significant post-doctoral teaching experience is essential; leadership experience in an academic program is desired. Excellent communication and writing skills are required.

Application Instructions: Applications must be submitted electronically using interfolio and must include a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, a teaching statement (including experience and interests), an equity and diversity statement (including experience and interests), and the names and complete contact information of three references. Questions concerning submission of application materials should be directed to Alicia Boampong ( ). Other requests for information may be directed to the Chair of the Search Committee, Darryn Waugh ( ). Review of the application materials will begin November 15th and continue until the position is filled. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The Johns Hopkins University is committed to equal opportunity for its faculty, staff, and students. To that end, the university does not discriminate on the basis of sex, gender, marital status, pregnancy, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status or other legally protected characteristic. The university is committed to providing qualified individuals access to all academic and employment programs, benefits and activities on the basis of demonstrated ability, performance and merit without regard to personal factors that are irrelevant to the program involved. 

Molecular Biology Teaching Stream Position (CLA - 3 year term) - York University

The Department of Biology, Faculty of Science at York University invites applications for a teaching-stream three-year Contractually Limited Appointment (CLA) in Molecular Biology at the rank of Sessional Assistant Professor, Teaching Stream to commence July 1, 2022, for a three-year term. The successful candidate will teach and enhance undergraduate courses in the Department of Biology with a focus on molecular biology, particularly at the first and second year, and in upper-level courses according to their expertise. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. All York University positions are subject to budgetary approval.

The successful candidate will have:

• a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences (specifically in an area of molecular biology)
• demonstrated experience teaching undergraduate courses in molecular biology and applying evidence-based pedagogy in their teaching
• experience with UDL approaches to teaching and assessment
• experience teaching large classes in the first and second year
• be able to work effectively as part of a teaching team

Applicants should submit: a signed cover letter outlining professional experience relevant to this position

• a CV
• a teaching dossier, including a 1-3 page teaching statement that addresses, among other things, the candidate's commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusivity

More information can be found in the online ad.

York University has a policy on Accommodation in Employment for Persons with Disabilities and is committed to working towards a barrier-free workplace and to expanding the accessibility of the workplace to persons with disabilities. Candidates who require accommodation during the selection process are invited to contact Dr. Kelly, Chair of the Search Committee at .