Postdoctoral Associate - Coral Reef Futures Lab

University of Miami • Miami, FL

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Coral Reef Futures Lab at the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and Earth Science seeks a highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate to join our coral biology and restoration research program. This position will focus on advancing research in Caribbean coral reproduction, larval ecology, and early life history, with a particular emphasis on scaling propagation and out planting outcomes using our land-based coral facility. The successful candidate will help lead research on coral spawning, fertilization, larval development, settlement, and/or post-settlement survival, while directly contributing to broader restoration initiatives. This role emphasizes scientific leadership, experimental design, and mentorship, with opportunities to integrate new science into applied restoration efforts, with the potential for significant career advancement. Current active areas of research and implementation in the lab include: Assisted gene flow of Caribbean corals via international breeding efforts around the region, with the goal of increasing diversity, adaptive capacity, and resilience; Improving restoration pipelines designed to increase the scale of restoration using sexually derived recruits, including new technologies such as hydrogels, bioprinting, substrate enhancements, and anti-fouling coatings; Holobiome interventions to increase the resilience of coral restoration efforts, including algal symbiont provisioning and probiotics; The design and deployment of hybrid barrier reefs to help protect coastlines and the deployment of early-stage coral recruits to these structures.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in marine biology, coral biology, ecology, or a related field, with experience in coral spawning, gamete handling, fertilization, and/or larval rearing.
• At least 3–4 years of experience in coral biology or closely related research preferred
• Experience designing and implementing experimental studies
• Demonstrated record of scientific productivity (publications, technical reports, or equivalent)
• Doctorate degree in relevant field required
• No previous experience required
• Learning Agility: Ability to learn new procedures, technologies, and protocols, and adapt to changing priorities and work demands.
• Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively with others and contribute to a team environment.
• Technical Proficiency: Skilled in using office software, technology, and relevant computer applications.
• Communication: Strong and clear written and verbal communication skills for interacting with colleagues and stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

• AAUS scientific diving certification
• Experience working in or collaborating with land-based coral nurseries
• Experience mentoring undergraduate and/or graduate students
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team
• Comfortable working in outdoor facilities that can be seasonally hot and humid
• Willing to work during non-traditional hours (e.g., nighttime spawning events)
• Commitment to training and supporting emerging scientists
• Interest in translating reproductive biology into applied restoration outcomes

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead research projects focused on coral reproduction, larval biology, and early life history
• Design and execute experiments on spawning, fertilization success, larval performance, and settlement
• Advance methods for larval propagation and recruitment to support restoration efforts
• Mentor undergraduate and MPS students conducting independent research projects
• Contribute to and/or lead manuscript preparation, grant writing, and collaborative proposals
• Help coordinate spawning activities and nursery-based research across multiple institutional partners
• Conducts research on specific areas of study as assigned.
• Prepares research reports and technical papers for publishing.
• Investigates the feasibility of applying a wide variety of scientific principles and theories.
• Maintains substantial knowledge of state-of-the-art principles and theories.
• Develops advanced analytical models and systems and provides solutions and analyses to support strategic and tactical decisions.
• Adheres to University and unit-level policies and procedures and safeguards University assets.

Benefits

• The University of Miami is recognized as one of the nation’s premier research institutions and academic health systems and is among the largest employers in South Florida. With more than 20,000 faculty and staff, the University is committed to excellence and guided by a mission to positively impact the lives of students, patients, and communities locally and globally. We are dedicated to fostering a culture where every individual feels valued and empowered to contribute meaningfully. United by shared values, the University community works together to build an environment defined by purpose, collaboration, and service.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree