Offer Description
The post-doctoral researcher will carry out scientific and technical tasks in accordance with the project “Land-Sea interface: Let’s observe together!” (LandSeaLot), focusing on advancing the understanding of phytoplankton dynamics, in particular of Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) and red tide events (i.e. seawater discoloration associated with phytoplankton blooms) in coastal waters off the Seine Estuary (France).
The post-doctoral researcher will be supervised by Pierre GERNEZ.
She/he will contribute to:
- Support the development of a comprehensive, integrated database combining long-term data from in situ measurements (microscopic identification of phytoplankton species and cell counts, pigment concentration, as well as high-frequency chlorophyll-a concentration derived from chlorophyll-a fluorescence) and satellite-derived observations (e.g., remote-sensing reflectance, optical water types and optical bloom types, concentration of chlorophyll-a and suspended particulate matter);
- Investigate the spatio-temporal dynamics of dominant phytoplankton taxons to enhance the monitoring and understanding of HABs and red tide events;
- Develop and apply statistical methods such as dynamic linear models (DLM), generalized additive models (GAM), or ecological trajectory analysis (ETA) to study phytoplankton temporal variability using time series of satellite images, as well as advanced classification methodologies to map bloom-causing phytoplankton groups and/or phenoregions;
- Validate satellite-derived products (chlorophyll-a concentration and optical bloom type) using available field observations;
- Occasionally participate to the acquisition of field data, including seawater sampling for phytoplankton identification and measurements of optical properties (above-water reflectance and particulate absorption);
- Contribute to the post-sampling processing of field data;
- Conduct multidisciplinary scientific analyses that integrate diverse datasets and fields of knowledge (from marine ecology to ocean colour remote sensing), improving the understanding of phytoplankton bloom dynamics and diversity in river-dominated ocean margin system (namely the bay area influenced by freshwater inputs from the Seine river, in Normandy, France);
- Maintain interactive communication and collaboration with colleagues at Nantes University as well as with other project’s participants (in particular the research teams of Tania HERNANDEZ at Ifremer and Pascal CLAQUIN University of Caen), providing feedback, and participating in interdisciplinary discussions to ensure successful project execution. Prepare reports on scientific activities every six months and a final project report, ensuring clear documentation of progress, achievements, and challenges;
- Publish and disseminate research results in international peer-reviewed journals and presenting findings at relevant conferences and workshops
Duration of contract : 18 months
Where to apply
E-mail: recrutement-polesante-postdoclandsealot@emploi.beetween.com
Requirements
Research Field: Environmental science
Education Level: PhD or equivalent
Skills/Qualifications
A doctoral diploma in environmental sciences, marine ecology, oceanography, remote sensing or related field ; Extensive knowledge and experience in the collection, integration, and analysis of large geospatial and/or environmental datasets; Expertise in optical remote sensing, including experience in the use of in situ data and integration with satellite-derived datasets; Strong proficiency with numerical computing languages (e.g., R, Python, IDL, MATLAB, or similar tools) for data analysis and modelling; Solid record of research activities including publications in international peer-reviewed journals; Good oral and written communication skills in English (B2).
Specific Requirements
Previous experience in field work or laboratory environment, particularly in the collection of bio-optical properties; Expertise in ocean colour remote sensing; Familiarity with advanced statistical methods of time series analysis and classification; Knowledge of marine biology (particularly phytoplankton communities); Ability to work collaboratively within interdisciplinary teams.LanguagesENGLISHLevelExcellentResearch FieldEnvironmental science » EcologyYears of Research Experience1 – 4
Additional Information
Benefits
- An unprecedented model in France combining a university, a university hospital (CHU de Nantes), a technological research institute (IRT Jules Verne), a national research organization (Inserm) and the Grandes Écoles (Centrale Nantes, École des Beaux-arts Nantes Saint-Nazaire, Ecole Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de Nantes)
- Commitment to professional equality, diversity and inclusion and addressing gender-based and sexual violence
- Membership in the EUniWell European Alliance committed to wellness
- Certified HR Excellence in Research since 2022 as part of the HRS4R strategy
- Transport subscription up to 75 % supported
- Sustainable mobility package, in line with the institution’s commitment to sustainable development
- Access to university restaurants with a preferential rate
- Access to sports, university libraries and other activities on campus
- Indicative monthly salary : 2,010 – 2,330 € (depending on experience) including high-level social benefits and health insurance
Eligibility criteria
PhD
CV with cover letter and recommendations letter
Selection process
- Deadline for receipt of applications : 20 July 2025
- Terms of application and communication with the candidate :
- Application link : recrutement-polesante-postdoclandsealot@emploi.beetween.com
- Link to the Nantes Université job offers page : https://www.univ-nantes.fr/universite/recrutement/recrutement-personnels-enseignants-et-recherche
Additional comments
Website of the research unit : https://isomer.univ-nantes.fr/team-rsbe
