Postdoctoral Position within Benthic Ecology

26th June 2026
Languages
English

• Norsk Bokmål
• English

English

Don't just scratch the surface—dive deep with the Institute of Marine Research!

Postdoctoral Position within Benthic Ecology 
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About the Position 

The Benthic Ecology Research Group at the Institute of Marine Research (IMR) is currently offering a three-year postdoctoral position. The position is based in Tromsø. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary research team investigating the effects of aquaculture on deep-water benthic ecosystems. The position provides an opportunity to work at the intersection of benthic ecology, habitat mapping, and ecosystem-based management at an internationally leading research institute within a collaborative scientific environment.

The aim of the postdoctoral project is to improve our understanding of the ecosystem functions of deep-water biogenic habitats and to investigate the effects of aquaculture on the ecological condition and functioning of these habitats. The project will place particular emphasis on the role of cold-water coral and sponge communities in relation to habitat associations of benthic macrofauna and demersal fish populations, benthic carbon storage, and the impacts of aquaculture on the ecological status of these habitats.

The candidate will build on analyses of video data and physical samples previously collected during scientific surveys and will also be involved in the planning and execution of research cruises to collect new data specifically designed to address the objectives of the postdoctoral project.

Using video-based analyses combined with taxonomic expertise, quantitative ecology, and spatial modelling, the project aims to:

• Characterize the ecosystem functions of coastal cold-water coral (CWC) and sponge habitats, and assess how they contribute to benthic biodiversity, carbon storage, and habitat use by demersal fish.
• Describe changes in habitat condition and ecosystem functioning along gradients of aquaculture impact.
• Identify sensitive and resilient taxa and functional groups.
• Assess how aquaculture discharges may alter the functional role of biogenic habitats as biodiversity hotspots and as important habitats for fish.

About the Research Group and Our Work

The Benthic Ecology Research Group studies the effects of discharges to the marine environment from various ocean industries and how these affect benthic ecosystems. The group consists of approximately 20 researchers and technicians based at the IMR stations in Bergen, Austevoll, and Tromsø. Key research areas include the development of low-trophic aquaculture, the impacts of non-native species, climate change, and ocean acidification. The group provides national scientific advice on the ecosystem-based management of marine and coastal environments.

The research group develops and improves methods for mapping and monitoring benthic habitats, as well as indicators of stress in marine organisms. Our research supports the sustainable use of coastal areas, sustainable aquaculture, the establishment and management of marine protected areas, and the development of sustainable aquaculture in low-income countries.

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Key Tasks

• Conduct both independent and collaborative research on the effects of aquaculture on deep-water biogenic habitats.
• Analyse and process collected video data and physical samples.
• Participate in the planning and execution of research cruises to collect new data tailored to the objectives of the project.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Marine Biology, Ecology, or a closely related field.
• Relevant background in marine ecology.
• Experience with video-based analyses.
• Strong knowledge of quantitative ecology and statistical analysis.
• Proficiency in the statistical programming language R, or equivalent.
• Strong scientific writing and communication skills in English.

The working language at the Institute of Marine Research is Norwegian. Good communication skills in Norwegian are considered important both for the employee and for the institute. Candidates who do not speak Norwegian at the time of appointment are expected to complete Norwegian language training during the first two years of employment. The Institute of Marine Research will cover the costs of language courses upon successful completion.

Personal Qualities

At the Institute of Marine Research, we believe that personality plays an important role in how individuals work, communicate, and thrive in the workplace. For this position, we are looking for someone who:

• is motivated by the responsibilities and objectives of the position.
• maintains a positive attitude and stays focused, even when work does not go entirely as planned.
• enjoys working independently with data.
• is eager to learn and seeks advice and support early when needed.

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Desired Qualifications

• Expertise in the taxonomy of deep-water benthic fauna.
• Expertise in deep-water ecosystems.
• Experience with GIS software or similar tools.
• Experience in habitat mapping and spatial modelling.

Inclusion and Diversity is a Strength

The Institute of Marine Research believes that inclusion and diversity are strengths. Therefore, we encourage all qualified candidates to apply for a position with us, regardless of age, gender, disability, nationality, or ethnic background. The Institute is an Inclusive Workplace (IA) company, and we aim to accommodate applicants with disabilities.

If there are qualified applicants with disabilities , employment gaps , or immigrant backgrounds , we will invite at least one applicant from each of these groups to an interview. To be considered for affirmative action, you must meet the requirements and indicate that you wish to be considered for the action in your application. You can read more here .

Your application must include 

• a cover letter describing your research interests and motivation for applying for the position. The letter should not exceed one A4 page.
• Full name and contact details for two or three referees, preferably your PhD supervisor and/or references from recent employment.
• CV, transcripts, diplomas, and relevant certificates.
• A list of scientific publications, if applicable.

All documents must be in a Scandinavian language or in English. Candidates with documentation from foreign institutions must include an explanation of the institution’s grading system.

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We offer

• the opportunity to work in one of Europe’s leading marine research institutes
• a creative working environment
• facilities in central Tromsø
• flexible work hours

• public sector occupational pension through the Norwegian Public Service Pension Funds (SPK)
• access to company cabins, fitness facilities, and other welfare benefits

Aditional information

The position is remunerated as 1352 Postdoctoral Fellow in accordance with the main collective agreement in the state sector, depending on your qualifications and the characteristics of the position. A 2 % contribution to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund will be deducted from the salary.

Applications must be submitted electronically via Jobbnorge.

Please note that information about applicants may be made public even if the applicant has requested not to be listed. Applicants will be informed in advance if such disclosure is necessary.

The Institute of Marine Research is subject to export control regulations. These regulations apply to the processing of applications for the position.

Applicants with education from abroad may be asked to provide NOKUT approval of their qualifications. You may be asked to approve that the Institute of Marine Research conducts a background check.

About the Institute of Marine Research

The Institute of Marine Research (IMR) is one of the largest marine research institutes in Europe, with more than 1,000 employees and a wide range of research facilities and laboratories of a high international standard. Our core activities include research, scientific advice, and environmental monitoring. The Institute owns and operates eight research vessels.

Our headquarters are located in Bergen. We also have a regional office in Tromsø and research stations in Matre, Austevoll, and Flødevigen.

The Institute of Marine Research aims to be a leading provider of knowledge to support the sustainable management of resources in marine ecosystems, both nationally and internationally. Our work covers the entire value chain from ocean to food, including the marine environment, fisheries and aquaculture industries, and the provision of safe and healthy seafood.

 

Questions about the position

Vivian Husa

Forskningsgruppeleder

+47 915 38 429

[email protected]

Erwann Legrand

Forsker

+47 905 17 348

[email protected]

Apply for this job
Deadline

26th June 2026

Employer

Institute of Marine Research

Municipality

Tromsø - Romsa

Scope

Fulltime (1 positions) Fulltime (%)

Duration

Fixed Term

Place of service
Hjalmar Johansens gate 14, 9007 Tromsø

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