Postdoc in Ocean Color Remote Sensing and Marine Optics in Greenlandic waters – DTU Aqua

Are you a talented, self-motivated, and collaborative researcher who thrives in multidisciplinary environments? Are you excited by the idea of studying the carbon cycle in Greenlandic fjords and shelf waters using cutting-edge observational technologies such as ocean color remote sensing and marine optics?

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join the DFF-funded project “WaterColor: Unraveling the Shades of Change in Greenlandic Marine Waters.” The project is led by the National Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU Aqua) in collaboration with universities and research institutes across Denmark, Greenland, Finland, Poland, and South Africa. The position will be based at DTU Aqua in Kgs. Lyngby, starting in February 2026.

WaterColor investigates how climate-driven changes are reshaping the coastal and shelf marine ecosystems of Greenland. The Arctic is warming faster than any other region on Earth, and Greenland’s coastal waters are particularly sensitive indicators of these shifts. Rising temperatures and increasing freshwater and terrestrial fluxes are transforming the physical, chemical, and biological makeup of these marine environments — with significant implications for carbon cycling, ecosystem functioning, fisheries, and services such as CO₂ sequestration.

Despite their importance, many of these processes remain poorly understood due to Greenland’s remoteness and limited observational data. WaterColor seeks to fill these critical knowledge gaps through an integrated approach that combines field observations, satellite remote sensing, and advanced optical techniques.

Responsibilities and qualifications
We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to contribute to the scientific objectives of the WaterColor project over a two-year period. The position includes research, publication, data analysis, and laboratory work, with the opportunity to participate in planned field expeditions to Greenlandic coastal and shelf waters.

You will investigate key parameters related to carbon cycling, with a particular focus on organic carbon. Your research will integrate satellite remote sensing, marine optics, and field-based observations, drawing on both existing datasets from previous campaigns and new data collected through upcoming fieldwork.

You Are Expected To:

• Lead the preparation and submission of scientific manuscripts for peer-reviewed (ISI) 
• Present your findings at international conferences and scientific meetings
• Work closely with project collaborators across disciplines and institutions
• Contribute to the analysis of phytoplankton biomass and composition, in relation to hydrography, sea ice, and water chemistry, using both in situ and remote sensing data

We are seeking candidates with a background in marine science, oceanography, earth system science, or a related field. The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience with Earth Observation techniques, particularly ocean color remote sensing and marine optics
• Experience in planning and conducting field and laboratory work
• Knowledge of microbial biogeochemistry
• Proficiency in scientific programming and data analysis using tools such as Python, R, MATLAB, or similar
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, especially in the context of scientific writing and presentations
• A collaborative mindset and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent). 

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility. 

• Salary and terms of employment
• The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment is 2 years.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

• Further information 
• Further information may be obtained from Associate Prof. Rafael Gonçalves Araujo (rafgo@aqua.dtu.dk) and Prof. Colin A. Stedmon (cost@aqua.dtu.dk).

You can read more about DTU Aqua at www.aqua.dtu.dk 

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

• Application procedure 
• Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 30 September 2025 (23:59 Danish time). 

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications
• 2 Letters of Reference
• An explanation of their motivation in response to this project description (~ 300 to 1500 words). This document should describe your ideas and potential research plans for this specific project.

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

About DTU Aqua
DTU Aqua – National Institute of Aquatic Resources – works for well-functioning oceans, rivers, and lakes where biodiversity can thrive. Our research, advisory service, and education contribute to the development of a sustainable blue bioeconomy, robust aquatic ecosystems, and reduced effects of climate change. We have a large national and international network and cooperate with research partners, public authorities, industry, and NGOs. We have state-of-the-art research facilities and Denmark’s only ocean- and arctic-going research vessel. The Institute has 360 employees, one-half being scientific staff, including about 50 PhD students. More than 35 nationalities are represented at the Institute, and we support an equal gender distribution. We are located in Lyngby, Hirtshals, Nykøbing Mors, and Silkeborg and have regular activities in Greenland. Learn more on aqua.dtu.dk

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.