About the Delta ISB
The Delta Independent Science Board (Delta ISB) and California Sea Grant are seeking a postdoctoral scholar to support the Delta ISB’s ongoing activities. The Delta ISB, consisting of 10 prominent scientists from across the United States, is charged with providing oversight of the scientific research, monitoring, and assessment programs that support adaptive management of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta – the hub of California’s water supply system. The Delta ISB also conducts reviews of specific documents or programs that are self-initiated or requested by the Delta Stewardship Council or other agencies, including review of the scientific basis for Delta Plan amendments, the Bay Delta Water Quality Control Plan, Delta conveyance, and more. The Delta ISB has produced influential reports on topics such as water quality, fish and flows, adaptive management, non-native species, water supply reliability, the monitoring enterprise, and food webs.
Qualifications
- A recent doctorate degree received within the last three years (after 9/2022) in a relevant discipline in the environmental sciences is required. A degree in (eco)toxicology, ecology, or chemistry is preferred.
- Must be based in the U.S.
- Must be able to work in an interdisciplinary team.
- Must have knowledge and experience transferring ecological and/or hydrologic concepts across systems.
- Proven resourcefulness when navigating complex systems or filling data gaps.
- Strong written and oral skills, with an ability to distill and present complex environmental topics to technical and general audiences.
- Experience or aptitude in interacting with policymakers, agencies, community groups, or the public.
- Ability to work independently, take initiative, and proactively develop creative solutions and drive project outcomes.
Position Description
The postdoctoral scholar, employed by the University of California, San Diego, will work directly with the Delta ISB to achieve its goals and responsibilities of providing reviews of the science supporting adaptive management in the Delta. Salary range will be $5,728.26 to $6,388.14 per month based on experience.
The Delta ISB is currently conducting reviews on critical topics important to management, including contaminants monitoring, climate change, and decision-making under deep uncertainty. The postdoctoral researcher will explore the science and syntheses conducted on the topic in the Delta and other regions and help identify and describe the latest scientific approaches and emerging issues.
Specific responsibilities would include, but not be limited to:
- Writing syntheses on issues and topics to inform Delta ISB reviews
- Conducting literature reviews on key science topics
- Conducting analyses of data and information gathered from workshops and surveys
- Exploring emerging Delta issues
- Engaging and interviewing agency personnel, scientists, community members, and other interested parties
- Contributing to workshops and panels to inform reviews.
In addition, there will be an opportunity to conduct independent research. Postdoctoral scholars will be expected to present at conferences and write peer-reviewed papers.
How to Apply
The position will start in late 2025/early 2026. Initial appointments will be for one year, with the potential to renew for one or two additional years based on experience for a maximum of three years. The position can be fully remote, with travel to in-person meetings and conferences. If space allows, the position can also be based at the Delta Stewardship Council in Sacramento, CA, or the office of California Sea Grant in La Jolla, CA. If interested, please submit the following items via eSeaGrant.
- A cover letter with a statement of interest in the position and qualifications (2-page limit)
- A curriculum vitae
- Names/contact information for three references, and
- A statement of research describing your relevant background/career goals (3-page limit)
Application review will start on 8/27/25. The position will remain open until it is filled. Applicants must create an eSeaGrant account to access the application portal.
Read about the work and experience of past Delta ISB postdoctoral scholars here.
Questions?
Email disb@deltacouncil.ca.gov and sgproposal@ucsd.edu.