Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Climate Change and Nearshore Marine Biodiversity Posted 4 days ago – Be among the first 25 applicants. Job TitlePostdoctoral Research Fellow – Climate Change and Nearshore Marine Biodiversity Job Category – Faculty Non Bargaining Department – Research | Harley | Department of Zoology | Faculty of Science (Christopher Harley) Posting End Date – November 26, 2025 Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date. Job End Date – December 31, 2027 The expected salary for this position is $70,000 per year. Please do not apply through UBC Careers. Applications must be submitted to Michelle McEwan by email at sentinels@hakai.org. Sentinels of Change Alliance A Sentinels of Change Alliance postdoctoral fellowship supports research that deepens knowledge of Salish Sea biodiversity change at unprecedented scale and resolution. The project brings together Hakai Institute scientists, University of British Columbia scientists, and local communities to implement standard observation systems for biodiversity across a range of taxa, conduct experiments that test hypotheses about the causes of diversity change, and integrate knowledge from observation and experimental systems into a sustainable ongoing biodiversity observation system for the Salish Sea. Focal Project We are seeking a postdoctoral fellow to join a collaborative, community‑driven project investigating the impacts of climate change on larval marine invertebrate recruitment and nearshore biodiversity patterns in the Salish Sea. The position will build and expand on a unique, multi‑year dataset obtained from a network of community‑run light traps that focus on Dungeness crab (Metacarcinus magister) larvae, though research directions are not limited to this species. This network is part of a larger trans‑boundary collaboration between the Hakai Institute and the Pacific Northwest Crab Research Group. Possible research directions include: Creative applications of ecological questions to expand the existing light trap program, e.g., evaluating larval recruitment dynamics and the physiological impacts of changing temperature and ocean acidification on early life‑stage demographics and condition. Utilizing biodiversity data collected through experiments and field sampling conducted by the Hakai Institute and its partner network, including many species captured in the traps. Engagement in collaborative synthesis as part of an international working group focused on climate impacts on Dungeness crab recruitment and molt timing, contributing directly to adaptive management recommendations for a valued fishery. Description Of Data Collected Since 2022, the Hakai Institute has led a network of light traps spanning the BC coast from Prince Rupert to Sooke, focusing on the Salish Sea. Traps are deployed annually from April 15 to September 1 (and sometimes into October). Community partners service the traps every two days, collecting:- Overhead photographs of each sample (including by‑catch)- Counts of Dungeness megalopae and juveniles- Digital measurements of up to 30 Dungeness megalopae when present- Counts of bycatch species, though identification consistency varies by site. Ideal Candidates Candidates should have expertise in one or more of the following areas: larval ecology, fisheries oceanography, climate impacts on marine systems, experimental physiology, biodiversity science, or food web ecology. Strong quantitative analysis skills and a collaborative science approach are assets. Postdoctoral Responsibilities and Requirements Collaborate with the Sentinels and PCRG scientists, postdocs, field and data technicians. Publish results in peer‑reviewed journals in a timely fashion. Communicate effectively with colleagues, collaborators, and mentors about all aspects of the projects (design, interpretation, challenges, solutions, timelines, and progress). Possess a PhD or equivalent in a relevant discipline. Experience with experimental approaches in marine ecosystems is preferred. Experience conducting field work is an asset. Required experience with statistical analysis in R. Project Advising Team UBC PI – Dr. Chris HarleyHakai PI – Dr. Alyssa GehmanLight Trap Network Lead – Heather Earle Additional Details Equity and diversity are essential to research excellence. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized under any grounds enumerated in 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. Candidates of any nationality are encouraged to apply. The position is based at the Vancouver campus of the University of British Columbia, which lies on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Musqueam people. The postdoctoral fellow is expected to travel within the Salish Sea Region to participate in experimental work; accommodation at field stations will be provided. We hope to fill the position for a start date in early 2026. The position is for two years, with a performance review after one year. To Apply Cover letter* CV Two reference letters, emailed directly to sentinels@hakai.org, subject: "PDF job LightTraps [your surname]" Two sample research publications Your cover letter should address your main research interests and how they would apply to the context of this project and the Salish Sea, and describe a research angle that would interest you, along with the particular skills and experience you can bring to the work. Note: Do not submit applications via UBC Careers. All applications should be emailed directly to Michelle McEwan (sentinels@hakai.org). Contact • Alyssa Gehman – alyssa.gehman@hakai.org• Chris Harley – harley@zoology.ubc.ca• Heather Earle – heather.earle@hakai.org #J-18808-Ljbffr