Assistant Researcher in Oceanography

About the Position

Universidade do Algarve is recruiting an Assistant Researcher in Remote Sensing in Oceanography to join the Marine and Environmental Research Centre (CIMA) in Faro, Portugal. This internationally open position is funded by the Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT) under the institutional scientific employment stimulus programme. The contract runs for three years, with possible annual renewals up to a maximum of six years.

This role focuses on ocean colour remote sensing, satellite data processing, and field validation of optical sensors, contributing to cutting-edge research in Earth and Environmental Sciences. The researcher will support ocean monitoring and exploration, collaborate with international scientific networks, and help strengthen the university’s leadership in marine and environmental research. The post combines fieldwork, laboratory analysis, satellite data modelling, and interdisciplinary environmental applications, including support for European marine and water policy frameworks.

Position Details

Position: Assistant Researcher
Institution: Universidade do Algarve
Department: Marine and Environmental Research Centre (CIMA)
Research Field: Earth and Environmental Sciences – Remote Sensing in Oceanography
Location: Faro, Portugal
Number of Posts: 1
Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-term Research Contract
Start Date (Anticipated): January 2026
Working Hours: 35 hours per week
Salary Range: €3,501.28 gross per month
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD

Research Area

Ocean colour remote sensing
Satellite image processing
Optical sensor validation (MERIS, OLCI)
Oceanographic and radiometric data analysis
Environmental monitoring of coastal and marine waters
Remote sensing applications for European marine policies

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

PhD in Ocean, Earth or Environmental Sciences with a focus on Remote Sensing in Oceanography
Proven expertise in satellite data processing and algorithm development
Experience in validation campaigns for optical ocean sensors
Strong background in oceanographic field measurements and radiometry
Laboratory experience in chlorophyll a and suspended particulate matter analysis
Fluent English communication skills
Consistent peer-reviewed publication record

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience applying remote sensing to EU environmental directives (WFD, MSFD)
Background in Blue Economy research applications
University teaching experience (undergraduate and postgraduate)
Experience supervising Master’s and PhD students
Record of international research collaboration
Engagement in science communication and public dissemination

Key Responsibilities

Conduct research in ocean monitoring and marine remote sensing
Analyse satellite, radiometric and oceanographic datasets
Plan and execute ocean colour validation field campaigns
Publish findings in international peer-reviewed journals
Collaborate with national and international research partners
Support laboratory and equipment management
Contribute to training workshops and academic mentoring
Provide limited university teaching (up to 90 hours per year)

Application Process

How to Apply

Applications must be formally submitted to Universidade do Algarve by email or post. Candidates should follow the official tender procedures and include all required documentation.

Required Documents

Copy of PhD certificate
Cover letter (max 3,000 characters) highlighting key research achievements from the last five years
Curriculum Vitae (in English) aligned with evaluation criteria
Copies of 3–5 key publications
Any additional supporting documents relevant to the application