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Postdoctoral Scholar - Marine Science

University of Washington
Washington, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 15 Jan 2026
💰 $84,000/yr($74,400/yr$84,000/yr)

About the role

Description

Friday Harbor Laboratories (FHL) at the University of Washington is seeking 2 full-time (100% FTE) postdoctoral scholars. We seek outstanding marine scientists who will develop research activities that make use of FHL assets, including field sites and existing laboratory facilities, building on the long history of research accomplishments of FHL resident scientists. FHL postdoctoral scholars are expected to conduct research that makes use of marine species, communities, or ecosystems found in the Salish Sea region, working under the mentorship of a faculty member at FHL or at another UW campus. Co-mentorship by a non-UW scientist is possible. Research must be conducted in person on San Juan Island. A priority for one position is a candidate intending to work on some aspect of climate impacts on marine organisms or ecosystems.

These appointments have an initial term of 12 months, with the possibility of renewal for an additional year pending funding and successful completion of performance objectives. Funding for each position will include a modest supplement for research and travel costs. There will be opportunities for professional development within the FHL community, e.g. via mentoring student research, committee work and outreach.

Responsibilities:

  • Conduct independent marine science research based at FHL
  • Engage with student researchers and the broader FHL community as well as sharing findings with other scientists and the public in an accessible manner

The salary for this position will be $6200-$7000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications, or as mandated by a U.S. Department of Labor Prevailing wage determination. Postdoctoral scholar appointments at UW are limited to a temporary, defined period not to exceed five years/60 months, including any previous postdoctoral experience.

The anticipated start date is between Sept. 15, 2026, and June 1, 2027. Priority consideration will be given to applications received by March 1.

Postdoctoral scholars at UW are represented by UAW 4121 and are subject to the collective bargaining agreement, unless agreed exclusion criteria apply. For more information, please visit the University of Washington  Labor Relations website

 

Postdoctoral scholars are engaged in full-time, mentored advanced training to enhance professional skills and research independence. Given the close mentoring relationship necessitated by the nature of postdoctoral scholar appointments; access to the full university community to support individual development; and, if applicable, visa sponsorship requirements, postdoctoral scholars must be physically present at their place of work on University property to fulfill their appointment duties.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

  • Candidates must have completed a PhD in some area of marine sciences by the start date of the appointment and have accrued no more than three years of total postdoctoral experience before assuming this position.

Desired Qualifications

  • Demonstrated strong analytical and writing skills as seen in record of publication in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Experience working effectively in a collaborative group.
  • Experience mentoring student research.
  • Experience engaging with audiences from a wide spectrum of backgrounds.

About FHL

Friday Harbor Laboratories is the University of Washington's marine laboratory, located on San Juan Island, 70 miles north of the Seattle campus in the Salish Sea, on Lummi, Samish, Klallam, and Tulalip land. FHL is located on a 490-acre biological reserve. The primary mission of FHL is marine research, with teaching and public outreach also important parts of our mission. FHL was established over 100 years ago and operates year-round, bringing scientists, students, and scholars from all over the world together to study and conduct research in the marine sciences.

FHL is a unique unit within the College. As a research station located at a distance from any of the UW campuses, FHL offers undergraduate and graduate classes, operates dormitories and The Whiteley Center for Scholars, hosts conferences and workshops, supports scientific diving and other research from FHL-owned vessels and small boats, and runs a dining hall. Given this diversity of operations, FHL is also home to diverse users and visitors from all over the globe who come

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University of Washington

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