Post-doctoral Fellow (PDF) / Senior Research Assistant (SRA)

Post-doctoral Fellow (PDF) / Senior Research Assistant (SRA) in the Swire Institute of Marine Science (SWIMS)

Applications are invited for appointment as Post-doctoral Fellow (PDF) / Senior Research Assistant (SRA) in the Swire Institute of Marine Science (SWIMS), to commence on or before July 1, 2026, for two years, with the possibility of renewal subject to satisfactory performance and future funding.

Applicants should possess a Ph.D. degree in marine ecology, marine biology, biogeochemistry, geochemistry, environmental science, or a related discipline. They should have strong research experience in field-based marine ecology, including leading or coordinating marine or coastal fieldwork, and demonstrated experience with stable isotope analyses and related data analyses in ecological or biogeochemical contexts. A track record of question-driven research, as evidenced by publications or other research outputs commensurate with career stage, is expected. The successful candidate should have excellent communication, organizational and collaborative skills, and be able to work both independently and within an interdisciplinary team.

The appointee will join an active research group at SWIMS and SBS working at the interface of marine ecology and conservation, with a particular focus on stable isotope approaches. They will contribute to the design, implementation and analysis of research projects on marine ecology and biogeochemistry using stable isotope tools, conduct and coordinate fieldwork in marine and coastal ecosystems, and carry out sample collection, processing and laboratory analyses. They will lead data analysis and contribute to the preparation of manuscripts, reports and grant proposals. The appointee will oversee junior research staff and research assistants, and will contribute to the supervision and mentoring of students involved in related projects. Example research focal areas such as trophic ecology, blue carbon ecosystems, and human impacts on coastal ecosystems are welcome, as are other innovative ideas that complement and extend existing work within SWIMS and SBS. The appointee will have opportunities to develop their own research agenda and to pursue new methods or interdisciplinary collaborations within the broader SWIMS and MSc environment.

The appointee will be expected to contribute to research-led teaching and training associated with an MSc programme in marine ecology and conservation, through involvement in appropriate teaching activities, mentoring of MSc students and support for field- and project-based learning, as agreed with the programme leadership. They will be required to work at both the SWIMS facilities and on the main HKU campus and at field sites in Hong Kong and surrounding waters.

A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, in addition to annual leave and medical benefits. At current rates, salaries tax in Hong Kong does not exceed 15% of gross income.

The University only accepts online application for the above post. Applicants should apply online at the University’s Careers site and upload an up-to-date C.V., a 2-3 page cover or motivation letter describing research interests, skills and career plans, and the names and contact details of 2–3 referees. Review of applications will start as soon as possible and continue until June 30, 2026, or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.

For further information about the post, please contact Dr. Jonathan Cybulski at jcyb@hku.hk.