The Department of Earth Sciences within the Faculty of Geosciences at Utrecht University in the Netherlands is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher on Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal (mCDR:MRV) for the EU-funded MAR-CO2 project.
Research Focus & Marine Biogeochemistry Scope
As ocean-based climate interventions expand, developing robust scientific verification for marine carbon dioxide removal is vital. The postdoctoral researcher will investigate:
- Ecological Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (eMRV): Establishing standardized ecological indicators and sensor protocols to track the environmental safety and efficacy of mCDR deployments.
- Ocean Biogeochemistry & Carbon Dynamics: Conducting coastal and open-ocean sampling, alkaline enhancement experiments, and geochemical tracking of carbon fluxes.
- Benthic & Pelagic Ecosystem Impacts: Assessing responses of marine fauna, bivalve shellfish, and benthic communities to manipulated ocean alkalinity.
Position Benefits & Contract Details
- Host Institution: Department of Earth Sciences, Utrecht University, Netherlands.
- Contract Duration: Up to 36 months full-time postdoctoral appointment (1.0 FTE).
- Gross Salary: €3,706 to €5,760 per month (Scale 10, Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities).
- Additional Benefits: 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, and generous pension scheme.
- Application Deadline: 20 September 2026.
Candidate Requirements
- Ph.D. in Marine Science, Biological Oceanography, Aquatic Biogeochemistry, Marine Ecology, or related discipline.
- Experience with marine fieldwork, carbonate chemistry analysis, or marine ecosystem modeling.
- Strong track record of scientific publications and proficiency in English.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via the Utrecht University official vacancies portal before 20 September 2026. Submit a motivation letter, curriculum vitae, publication list, and contact details of two academic referees.