Postdoctoral Researcher - Bioacoustics and UUV Acoustic Classification

Job Description

Job Description

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition assistance
• Vision insurance

The National Marine Mammal Foundation (NMMF) is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to advance work in acoustic detection and classification. This position will contribute to multiple active projects related to undersea acoustic monitoring. Machine learning approaches for detection, classification and localizations of signals of interest to include but not limited to: marine mammal vocalizations, unmanned underwater vehicles (UUV), surface vessels, sonar, or changes in the biological soundscape resulting from the presence of human-made sound sources. The position is fully funded for two years. The start time is ASAP.

The NMMF is looking for a candidate with strong programming and data-analysis skills, the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, and a strong proficiency in machine learning. Candidates with experience in acoustic data acquisition and analysis are strongly preferred. As the project is in support of U.S. Navy research, U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain a Secret security clearance are required. The applicant must be able to live and work locally in San Diego, California.

This is a highly technical and data-intensive role with ample publication and collaboration opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research across multiple Navy acoustics projects.
• Develop, adapt, and optimize analysis tools and workflows using programming languages (e.g., MATLAB, Python).
• Manage and process large acoustic datasets while meeting multiple project timelines.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a relevant field (e.g., computer science, bioacoustics, engineering).
• Proficiency in programming (MATLAB, Python).
• Proficiency in machine learning.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to excel working alone and collaboratively.
• U.S. citizenship with the ability to obtain a Secret security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in acoustic analysis or signal processing.
• Familiarity with acoustic classification methods.

Work Environment

• Office
• Water-side (off ocean piers)
• Open-water (boats)