Postdoctoral Position in Marine Mammal Health and Biology

Would you like to contribute to a better understanding of marine mammal health? Do you have a strong interest in the biology and ecology of marine top predators? We are offering a senior postdoctoral position within the Stranding Research Programme, part of the Division of Pathology at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine.

Your job
The Stranding Research Programme investigates causes of death and the health status of harbour porpoises and other marine mammals stranded in the Netherlands. Commissioned by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Nature since 2008, our (collaborative) research focuses on anthropogenic threats, such as bycatch, ship collisions, underwater noise pollution, and chemical contaminants. With state-of-the-art pathology facilities, expertise in animal disease, and a strong network of national and international partners, we conduct comprehensive necropsies to identify mortality patterns and environmental threats. Our work supports the health assessment of marine mammal populations and informs conservation efforts for the North Sea ecosystem.

Your research will cover key topics such as disease, reproductive biology and nutritional condition, providing critical insights into the overall health and sustainability of marine mammal populations. There is abundant archival data and samples available, collected through post-mortem investigations, which you can work with. This position provides access to necropsy- and laboratory facilities, opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, and a direct contribution to marine conservation strategies.

You will join a small but diverse and multidisciplinary team of research assistants, PhD candidates, residents (specialists-in-training), veterinarians, pathologists, led by PI/Assistant Professor Dr. Lonneke IJsseldijk. This position offers a dynamic and professional work environment with opportunities for professional development, including training through the Utrecht University Development Programme.

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will play a central role in advancing marine mammal health research. Your main tasks include:

• co-designing and co-leading innovative research on marine mammal health and mortality;
• analysing large datasets from post-mortem investigated marine mammals and related environmental factors;
• applying advanced data analysis techniques, such as R, Python, or Machine Learning, to identify patterns in biological factors, disease and mortality;
• co-supervising and mentoring PhD candidates, MSc and BSc students;
• collaborating with national and international partners, including fellow researchers and NGOs;
• securing external research funding by writing grant applications and developing research proposals;
• publishing findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals and presenting at (inter)national conferences;
• communicating research outcomes to both academic and non-academic audiences, including policymakers and stakeholders.

You are a highly motivated and independent researcher with:

• a PhD in marine biology, ecology, or a related field.
• experience in marine mammal research, particularly in data collection and (statistical) analysis.
• strong quantitative skills, with experience in R, Python, or Machine Learning techniques (please specify in your application).
• proven ability to acquire research funding, with experience with Dutch National and EU grant writing is seen as an advantage.
• previous experience in working with data from strandings or postmortem investigated animals is an advantage.
• excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with experience in scientific writing.

If you do not meet all the requirements, but you are convinced that you would be a good fit for this position, we warmly invite you to apply. Please elaborate on your relevant experience in your motivation letter.

• A job for 18 months with the possibility of an extension following satisfactory performance;
• a working week of 28-36 hours and a gross monthly salary between €3,546 and €5,538 in the case of full-time employment (salary scale 10 under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU));
• 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus;
• a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave and flexible terms of employment based on the CAO NU.

In addition to the terms of employmentlaid down in the CAO NU, Utrecht University has a number of schemes and facilities of its own for employees. This includes schemes facilitating professional development, leave schemes and schemes for sports and cultural activities. We also offer access to additional employee benefits through our Terms of Employment Options Model. In this way, we encourage our employees to continue to invest in their growth. For more information, please visit Working at Utrecht University.

A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University, the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major strategic themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Pathways to Sustainability. Sharing science, shaping tomorrow.

At the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine we train the veterinarians and researchers of the future, provide care for animals and conduct leading and societal relevant research. That is what we are good at. We see that the health and welfare of animals, humans and the environment are interconnected. By sharing our knowledge and working together, we make positive impact, both nationally and internationally. Our 1,500 students and 950 staff members inspire and strengthen each other. Our engagement connects us. The drive to, from an integral perspective, make the world a better place.