--- title: 'Postdoctoral Associate at OceanX' canonical: 'https://feeny.ai/job/postdoctoral-associate-oceanx-global-wdaknkmenrqn' type: 'job' last_seen: '2026-09-08' --- # Postdoctoral Associate at OceanX - **Company:** OceanX - **Location:** Global - **Posted:** 2025-07-17 - **Last confirmed live:** 2026-09-08 - **Apply:** https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/oceanx/jobs/5570948004 ## Job description Postdoctoral Associate OceanX About OceanX: OceanX is a nonprofit working to unlock the ocean’s sustainable potential. Through a dual focus on science and education, we’re building a new paradigm where humanity and the ocean mutually thrive. Our approach is fueled by exploration, leveraging advanced research, multimedia educational programs, cross-sector partnerships, and advanced technology to help transform how people understand and value the ocean. Our work strives to fortify biodiversity and increase the sustainable use of ocean resources to help ensure the ocean remains a foundation for human wellbeing and potential. OceanX is a nonprofit operating program of Dalio Philanthropies. For more information, visit [www.oceanx.org](https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Furldefense.proofpoint.com%2Fv2%2Furl%3Fu%3Dhttps-3A__nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com_-3Furl-3Dhttp-253A-252F-252Fwww.oceanx.org-252F-26data-3D04-257C01-257Cmax.khosrowshahi-2540oceanx.org-257C0a1b5235101448d821a208d8c49760b0-257Ccc552540c09e4393a4e20cb8b78e9cda-257C0-257C0-257C637475501846812952-257CUnknown-257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0-253D-257C1000-26sdata-3D-252FlUQt2TvO-252FXxbOQnA-252F-252FU7-252B3NTNItGBbbfQsKFS1epMw-253D-26reserved-3D0%26d%3DDwMGaQ%26c%3D6d9m4hmJHq_NZhleV8upOA%26r%3Dfm84UW30_I2aPj_7felAFuGxn1g8wD72fa5SANzzHDI%26m%3Dj41n0nhRZekBR3eV1nxOrW5IvD36kzK3awdvrnAxklc%26s%3DagjwW04PZhS1xZHcGesxiLRVeU1kaKqQ59DnnM5Q3KI%26e%3D&data=04%7C01%7Cmax.khosrowshahi%40oceanx.org%7C3714a3100082490b2ae408d8c6f9b518%7Ccc552540c09e4393a4e20cb8b78e9cda%7C0%7C0%7C637478123096409924%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&sdata=oQ9UHY4PUtDsubCaM5p9%2BHto3XSAwABUYRQH%2BL7lBFQ%3D&reserved=0) and follow OceanX on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/OceanXOrg/), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/oceanx/?hl=en), [Twitter](https://twitter.com/oceanx?lang=en), [X](https://www.tiktok.com/@oceanx), and [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/oceanxorg/). Position Summary: OceanX is seeking a Postdoctoral Associate in a field related to marine biology, oceanography, molecular ecology, bioinformatics, or a closely related discipline. This position combines laboratory and field-based research aboard the research vessel R/V OceanXplorer with remote, shore-based research and scientific support. The successful candidate will be responsible for collecting, processing, and documenting biological and environmental samples (e.g., water, sediment, and organisms) during international research expeditions onboard R/V OceanXplorer and conducting downstream analyses and curation, including e.g. sequencing, genome assembly, and other bioinformatic workflows. When not deployed aboard the vessel, the Postdoctoral Associate will provide ongoing support to the OceanX Science team through data analysis, manuscript preparation, project development, and support in expedition planning. The ability to work both independently and collaboratively with international scientific teams in a dynamic shipboard environment is essential. This position offers unique access to a wide range of ocean exploration technologies and platforms, including crewed submersibles, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), CTDs, and scientific diving operations. The successful candidate will be expected to develop, execute, and publish original scientific research in collaboration with the OceanX Science team, with the goal of producing high-impact, peer-reviewed publications. OceanX is an entrepreneurial environment which values team players who can manage priorities and workstreams simultaneously. To thrive and succeed within our unique culture and work environment, you must demonstrate humility, innate curiosity, and openness to new ideas/approaches. You also must be hard working, composed and goal oriented. Everyone working with OceanX is expected to be honest, open to giving and receiving objective feedback, constantly striving for self-improvement, and committed to the pursuit of excellence. Position Type: - This is a two-year contract position, with the possibility of renewal after the two-year term. - While the role will work closely with the OceanX team in support of OceanX initiatives, it will be formally employed and managed by a third-party staffing partner. - Please note this position does not provide visa sponsorship, immigration support, or relocation assistance. - Applicants must have the legal right to reside and work in their country of residence at the time of application and throughout the duration of the contract term. Location: - Note: This position requires spending approximately 65% of annual working time aboard the R/V OceanXplorer during scientific expeditions. - When not deployed at sea, work may be performed remotely from within their country of residence. Duties and Responsibilities: - Develop scientific projects in collaboration with the OceanX Science Program Mangers, Research Scientist, and the Chief Science Officer. - Collect, process, analyze, and document biological and environmental samples and associated data during research expeditions. - Operate, maintain, and help optimize laboratory facilities aboard R/V OceanXplorer, including management of consumables, equipment inventories, procurement, and laboratory safety procedures, i.e. manage the storage, handling, and disposal of chemicals and other laboratory materials in accordance with applicable safety regulations and best practices. - Collaborate with guest researchers and vessel-based teams (Science, ROV, and Sub) to achieve sampling objectives and scientific project goals during scientific expeditions. - Support external researchers with sample collection, processing, documentation, and logistics. - Conduct bioinformatic and statistical analyses of molecular and ecological datasets. - Contribute to expedition planning, project coordination, reporting, and scientific communications. - Develop, lead, and publish original research in peer-reviewed scientific journals in collaboration with the OceanX Science team. Qualifications: - Professional Experience: - Ph.D. in Marine Biology, Oceanography, Molecular Ecology, Bioinformatics, or a closely related field. - Demonstrated experience conducting independent scientific research and contributing to peer-reviewed publications, including a publication record appropriate to career stage, including first-author peer-reviewed publications. - Experience with molecular biology and/or bioinformatic approaches relevant to marine science, including sample processing, sequencing-based analyses, and data interpretation. - Experience analyzing and visualizing complex biological and environmental datasets using appropriate statistical and computational tools. - Experience conducting marine fieldwork and/or working aboard research vessels. - Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously. - Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with interdisciplinary teams and external collaborators. - Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a highly collaborative team environment. - Ability to thrive in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment with evolving priorities and operational complexity. - Preferred Qualifications: - Experience with environmental DNA (eDNA), metabarcoding, metagenomics, genomics, transcriptomics, or related molecular approaches and their respective bioinformatics workflows. - Experience supporting multidisciplinary scientific expeditions or large-scale field campaigns. - Experience managing laboratory operations, scientific inventories, and research logistics. - Familiarity with oceanographic sampling platforms and technologies, including CTDs, ROVs, submersibles, and autonomous systems. - Experience collaborating with international research teams and external scientific partners. - Personal Attributes: - Determined, resourceful and practical. An independent, self-starter, with a “roll up your sleeves” attitude and strong work ethic - Agility, with a track record of getting things done - Organized, reliable, and meticulous - Ability to prioritize, meet tight deadlines, anticipate needs, and maintain high quality work - Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) - Comfortable with ambiguity - Maintains high standards - Highly collaborative - General curiosity and passion for the Ocean - Other Requirements: - Willingness and ability to live and work aboard R/V OceanXplorer for extended deployments at sea of approximately 4–8 weeks at a time. - Ability to spend approximately 65% of annual working time aboard the vessel during expeditions. - Willingness and ability to travel internationally and work in remote locations. - Ability to safely perform shipboard, laboratory, and field-based scientific activities, including handling equipment and samples as required. Compensation: Compensation for this role is in the range of USD $90,000–$100,000. ## About OceanX ## Company Overview - **One-liner**: OceanX is a global nonprofit that explores the ocean, advances marine science, and creates immersive media and education programs to transform humanity's relationship with the ocean. - **Entity Type**: Private (nonprofit; funded by Dalio Philanthropies) - **Headquarters**: New York, New York, United States (with a major office in Singapore) - **Founded**: 2016 - **Founders**: Ray Dalio and Mark Dalio (via Dalio Philanthropies) ## Core Business - **Primary industry**: Ocean exploration, marine science, media production, and environmental education - **Target customers**: B2B (research institutions, governments, media partners) and B2C (educators, students, general public via documentary content) - **Mission or purpose statement**: "Unlock the ocean’s sustainable potential – for the benefit of both people and planet." [oceanx.org/about](https://oceanx.org/about/) ## Products & Services - **OceanXplorer**: A state-of-the-art, 414-foot research vessel equipped with dry/wet labs, manned and autonomous deep-sea submersibles, helicopters, drones, and a Hollywood-level production center. It serves as the primary platform for expeditions and media capture. - **OceanX Science**: Expedition-based research programs focused on biodiversity, climate resilience, and sustainable ocean policy, partnering with global research institutions. - **OceanX Education**: Programs that spark passion for the ocean through immersive experiences, curriculum-aligned content, and leadership development for students and educators. - **Media & Storytelling**: Co-production of high-impact documentaries including contributions to BBC’s *Blue Planet II*, the IMAX film *Oceans: Our Blue Planet*, and the original series *OceanXplorers* (created with James Cameron and National Geographic). - **Immersive / Digital Experiences**: Use of mixed reality, data visualization, and AI-driven marketing to bring ocean exploration to global audiences. ## Market Standing - **Valuation/Market Cap**: Not applicable (nonprofit); funding from Dalio Philanthropies. No external valuation disclosed. - **Key Metric**: Headcount of 88 employees (as of mid-2025), with a 23.5% year-over-year growth and a 22.9% increase in LinkedIn followers (to ~59,000) [linkedin.com/company/oceanxorg](https://www.linkedin.com/company/oceanxorg). - **Notable Investors/Partners**: Dalio Philanthropies (funder); James Cameron (creative advisor and co-creator of *OceanXplorers*); BBC Studios; National Geographic; and numerous scientific institutions (e.g., Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution). - **Growth Signals**: Expansion into Asia-Pacific with a dedicated Singapore office; hiring for roles in AI, immersive technology, and partnerships; increasing expedition footprint (e.g., Cabo Verde Digital Deep 2025, Around Africa 2025). ## Competitive Advantages - **Unique vessel capability**: OceanXplorer is one of the most advanced research and media vessels ever built, combining deep-sea science with Hollywood-grade production – a combination no other organization replicates. - **Media pedigree**: Strong relationships with top-tier broadcasters and filmmakers (BBC, National Geographic, James Cameron) enable global reach and compelling storytelling. - **Cross-disciplinary team**: The organization employs scientists, filmmakers, engineers, data analysts, and educators under one roof, fostering rapid iteration from discovery to public engagement. - **Philanthropic funding**: Independence from commercial revenue pressures allows long-term, high-risk/high-reward expedition planning. ## Strategic Focus - **Accelerating ocean science**: Deploying cutting-edge technology (eDNA analysis, deep-sea submersibles, AI data processing) to fill critical knowledge gaps about the ocean. - **Expanding global education**: Scaling immersive education programs and digital content to cultivate a new generation of ocean leaders, with a strong focus on the Asia-Pacific region. - **Driving policy change**: Translating research into actionable data for governments and international bodies to promote sustainable ocean management. - **Deepening media partnerships**: Continuing co-productions and original series to maintain public engagement and awareness. ## Why Work Here - **Mission-driven impact**: Employees contribute directly to ocean conservation, scientific discovery, and climate action. [oceanx.org/about](https://oceanx.org/about/) - **Cutting-edge technology**: Access to advanced research equipment, submersibles, and post-production facilities; opportunities to work at the intersection of science, media, and engineering. - **Global, diverse team**: Workforce spans 18 countries, with offices in New York and Singapore and a strong mix of backgrounds (marine biology, filmmaking, data science, operations) [linkedin.com/company/oceanxorg](https://www.linkedin.com/company/oceanxorg). - **Growth trajectory**: 23.5% headcount growth year-over-year, with active hiring for roles in AI, data, partnerships, and education (7 open positions as of mid-2025) [greenhouse.io](http://job-boards.greenhouse.io/oceanx). - **Culture of collaboration**: Hybrid team environment (HQ in NYC, Singapore hub, and expedition-based fieldwork); emphasis on creativity, cross-disciplinary problem-solving. - **Notable perks**: Opportunity to participate in ocean expeditions, work alongside top scientists and filmmakers, and contribute to Emmy-nominated and IMAX-scale media projects. ## Sources 1. [OceanX Careers (Greenhouse)](http://job-boards.greenhouse.io/oceanx) 2. [OceanX About Page](https://oceanx.org/about/) 3. [OceanX Homepage](https://oceanx.org/) 4. [OceanX Leadership Team](https://oceanx.org/our-team/) 5. [OceanX LinkedIn Page](https://www.linkedin.com/company/oceanxorg) ## Other roles at OceanX - [Mission Operations & AI Enablement Lead](https://feeny.ai/job/mission-operations-ai-enablement-lead-oceanx-new-york-my7w7pfsma51) — New York, NY - [Mission Operations & AI Enablement Lead](https://feeny.ai/job/mission-operations-ai-enablement-lead-oceanx-singapore-hmybm003srxk) — Singapore - [Software Engineer – AI and Data](https://feeny.ai/job/software-engineer-ai-and-data-oceanx-singapore-h8nf6phsexgj) — Singapore - [AI Immersive Technologist](https://feeny.ai/job/ai-immersive-technologist-oceanx-singapore-7k5xt03h8jfs) — Singapore - [Director of Immersive Education Programs](https://feeny.ai/job/director-of-immersive-education-programs-oceanx-singapore-zwc3vkaaqcqz) — Singapore - [Director of Partnerships, APAC](https://feeny.ai/job/director-of-partnerships-apac-oceanx-singapore-ba7j56et2mff) — Singapore - [Director of Public Events](https://feeny.ai/job/director-of-public-events-oceanx-singapore-tz29a2kkj0za) — Singapore