Assistant Research Scientist-Oyster Larval Transport

Introduction: We are seeking to fill an Assistant Research Scientist – Oyster Larval Transport position for the recently funded project entitled Oyster Larval Transport/Hydrodynamic Modeling for the Herring Bay Sanctuary, MD.

The overarching objectives of this research project are to 1) build a simulation model (the Herring Bay Oyster Model System or HBOMS) of the oyster reefs in Herring Bay Sanctuary and surrounding areas that includes coupled hydrodynamic, oyster larval transport, and oyster metapopulation sub-models, and 2) apply the coupled simulation model to inform the oyster restoration plan for Herring Bay Sanctuary. As part of this effort, sites of source reefs, sink reefs, and reefs that auto-recruit will be identified along with the population abundances needed to sustain these reef characteristics in the face of variability in circulation patterns, recruitment, growth and mortality. The model system also will be used to estimate 1) the reef size and abundance of oysters in a particular source area of the Herring Bay Sanctuary needed to augment regional recruitment to a detectable level, and 2) estimate from where larvae are transported to Herring Bay and the connections between Herring Bay to existing oyster restoration areas and adjacent harvest grounds. 

Position Description: Based at the Horn Point Laboratory, and mentored by Dr. Elizabeth North, the successful candidate will take an important role in running and validating a ROMS hydrodynamic model, implementing an LTRANS oyster larval transport model for Herring Bay, analyzing LTRANS output to provide metrics that can guide spatial planning of restoration sites in Herring Bay Sanctuary, and running and graphing output from an oyster metapopulation model. The postdoctoral researcher will take a leading role in the modeling work and will be expected to interact with scientific collaborators, restoration managers and scientists, and communicate clearly in nontechnical settings.  

We are seeking well-qualified candidates with expertise in hydrodynamic and particle transport modeling, proficiency with R, Matlab, and Fortran, experience working with scientists and managers in group settings, and familiarity with oyster biology and with communicating with nontechnical audiences.

Minimum Requirements: A Ph.D is required at the beginning of the period of employment. Previous work with ROMS, LTRANS, and oyster larvae particle tracking models would be highly beneficial.

Required Application Materials: (1) a cover letter describing relevant research experience, interests and goals, (2) a current CV or resume, and (3) contact information for three references.

Best Consideration Date: 11/01/2025

Posting Close Date: 11/02/2025

Open Until Filled: