The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), in partnership with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), invites postdoctoral researchers to apply for the Visiting Fellowships in Canadian Government Laboratories (VF) Program for the 2026–2027 academic and research cycle.
Research Focus & Aquatic Science Scope
Visiting Fellows conduct cutting-edge applied research across DFO’s network of state-of-the-art marine and freshwater research institutes, including the Bedford Institute of Oceanography, Pacific Biological Station, and Freshwater Institute. Key research priorities encompass:
- Marine & Freshwater Fisheries Assessment: Quantitative stock assessment modeling, ecosystem-based fisheries management, and pelagic/demersal fish population dynamics.
- Aquatic Ecosystem Health & Habitat Science: Assessing anthropogenic stressors, ocean acidification, marine heatwaves, and salmonid river habitat connectivity.
- Aquaculture Environmental Interactions: Investigating wild-farmed fish disease transmission, bivalve carrying capacity, and sustainable aquaculture environmental monitoring.
Fellowship Details & Financial Package
- Host Agency: Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) laboratories across Atlantic, Pacific, Arctic, and Ontario/Prairie regions.
- Contract Duration: 1 Year initial appointment, renewable for up to 3 years based on performance and departmental funding.
- Stipend: Competitive NSERC/DFO annual postdoctoral stipend with dedicated operational research funds and scientific travel allowances.
- Intake Policy: Continuous intake through the NSERC candidate inventory; candidates are selected on an ongoing basis throughout the year.
Candidate Requirements
- Ph.D. in Fisheries Science, Marine Biology, Biological Oceanography, Limnology, Aquatic Ecology, or closely related natural science discipline.
- Demonstrated scientific publication record in peer-reviewed aquatic and marine science journals.
- Open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and foreign nationals meeting Canadian work authorization requirements.
How to Apply
Prospective fellows must submit an application through the official NSERC online portal to be placed on the approved inventory. Candidates are strongly advised to contact DFO research scientists directly to discuss project alignment prior to or immediately following application submission.