We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher in physical oceanography

The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute (MFRI) in Iceland is seeking a full-time postdoctoral researcher in physical oceanography to join the Environmental Division. The position focuses on analyzing long-term mooring and hydrographic observations to investigate the state and variability of the Denmark Strait Overflow, which is a key component of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). The position is funded for 20 months with the possibility of extension depending on available resources.

The candidate will join a multidisciplinary team at MFRI aiming to increase understanding of marine and freshwater ecosystems through research and monitoring. The work will involve close collaboration with experts in physical oceanography, environmental monitoring, and research at the MFRI. The main place of work is the MFRI headquarters in Hafnarfjörður, Iceland. The project involves close collaboration with national and international partners, including the University of Iceland, Danish Meteorological Institute (DMI) and the University of Hamburg, with funding available for research exchange visits (to DMI).

Main tasks and responsibilities

· Update and analyze mooring timeseries of the Denmark Strait Overflow.

· Relate results with hydrographic observations, ocean re-analysis, and climate model data.

· Participate in a research cruise in the region.

· Participate in an international conference.

· Work collaboratively with MFRI’s physical oceanography team and collaborating partners.

· Conduct a research visit at the Danish Meteorological Institute.

· Publish a scientific paper summarizing the state-of-art of the Denmark Strait Overflow.

Qualifications

· Ph.D. in Physical Oceanography or closely related disciplines.

· Strong programming skills in Matlab and/or Python.

· Experience in analyzing observational oceanographic data, as well as model output.

· Previous publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

· Ambition, initiative and independence in work methods.

· Good organizational and communication skills.

· Positive attitude, willingness to cooperate and the ability to work in a team Fluency in spoken and written English.

Further information

Salary is according to the current collective wage and salary agreement between the Icelandic Union of Natural scientists (FÍN) and Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs.

Application process

The application should include:

· Detailed CV.

· Certificates of education (PhD and/or other).

· A cover letter detailing the candidates' background, motivation, and relevance to the call.

· The names of two references along with their contact information.

The deadline for application is by the end of 14th of February 2026.

Please send your application to our human resources team, email mannaudur@hafogvatn.is. Applicants will be informed about the appointment when a decision has been made.

Please note:

· Applications are valid for six months after application deadline.

· The MFRI reserves the right to reject all applications.

Appointments to positions at the Marine and Freshwater Research institute are made in consideration of the Equal Right Policy of the MFRI.

For further information please contact[HE6]

Hrönn Egilsdóttir, Head of the Enviromental Division - hronn.egilsdottir@hafogvatn.is – (+354) 695 6705

Andreas Macrander, physical oceanographer - andreas.macrander@hafogvatn.is, (+354) 865 9849