Associate Research Scientist in Mubadala Arabian Center for Climate and Environmental Sciences – Dr. John Burt

Description

Mubadala Arabian Center for Climate and Environmental Sciences (ACCESS) at New York University Abu Dhabi, seeks to recruit an Associate Research Scientist to investigate the molecular and genomic mechanisms underpinning the extraordinary heat tolerance of Arabian Gulf corals, the most thermally resilient corals on Earth.

The successful candidate will lead an ambitious research program focused on understanding how individual corals and populations vary in their responses to heat stress. This work will involve the application of genomic and gene expression profiling, as well as eco-physiological assays, to reveal the mechanistic basis of thermal resilience. The position is uniquely placed to bridge fundamental molecular research with applied conservation through close collaboration with another postdoctoral researcher who is leading a selective breeding program for heat-tolerant corals. Together, these efforts will support the development of robust coral populations capable of withstanding intensifying climate-related stressors.

Applicants must hold a PhD in biological sciences, molecular ecology, genetics, or a related field, completed by January 2024. They must also possess advanced SCUBA certification with demonstrated research-diving experience, as well as strong proficiency in molecular biology, genetics, bioinformatics, and statistical analysis. Experience conducting coral heat-stress assays and a record of first-author publications relevant to the field are essential. Preferred qualifications include a driver’s license in the applicant’s home country, boat-operator certification, and scientific diver credentials such as AAUS certification. Additional assets include experience with other omics approaches or epigenetics, advanced coding skills in R or Python, and prior supervisory experience with students or research staff.