Coral reefs, supporting 30% of marine species and critical to coastal communities, face collapse—90% could disappear by 2050. France’s Reef Pulse, a global leader in marine innovation, invites applications for a Permanent PostDoc in Marine Ecology to spearhead their REACT project. This role combines cutting-edge acoustic enrichment research with hands-on coral reef restoration in Reunion Island’s biodiverse waters.
REACT Project: Soundscapes as a Tool for Reef Recovery – PostDoc in Marine Ecology
The REACT initiative (Restoration of Tropical Coral Reefs Using Acoustic Enrichment) leverages soundscapes from healthy reefs to revive degraded ecosystems. Studies like Aoki et al. (2024) demonstrate that acoustic enrichment boosts coral settlement by 40%, while Gordon et al. (2019) show it accelerates fish community recovery. As a PostDoc researcher, you’ll:
- Design experiments using Fish-ARMS (Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures) and light traps to collect larvae.
- Analyze how noise pollution and reef health impact acoustic enrichment efficacy.
- Model ecological data to optimize soundscape deployment strategies.
Role Highlights: Research, Innovation & Impact
Key Responsibilities
- Lead field and lab studies on coral larvae recruitment and fish post-larvae behavior.
- Conduct acoustic trials in choice chambers to assess larval responses to soundscapes.
- Collaborate with AI engineers and marine ecologists to refine data analysis tools.
- Publish findings in high-impact journals (e.g., Nature Communications, Frontiers in Marine Science).
Requirements
- PhD in Marine Ecology or related field (completed by November 2025).
- Expertise in coral reef ecosystems and statistical programming (Python/R/Matlab).
- Fluency in English; readiness to relocate to Reunion Island.
Preferred Skills: Scientific diving certification (CAH Class 1B), aquarium husbandry experience, or marine acoustics background.
Why Reunion Island?
Reunion’s reefs span the Indian, Atlantic, and Pacific Oceans, offering unmatched research diversity. The role includes:
- Salary: €32,000–38,000 gross annually.
- Collaboration: Work with ENTROPIE Laboratory, Protected Marine Areas managers, and EU partners.
- Field Access: Dive into pristine and degraded reef sites to test restoration strategies.
Apply Now: Shape the Future of Marine Ecosystems
Deadline: May 31, 2025 | Start Date: September–November 2025
Submit your CV, cover letter, and references to [email protected] with the subject line “CDI enrichissement acoustique.”
Join the Frontlines of Ocean Conservation.
Learn more about Reef Pulse’s mission and how your research can turn the tide for coral reefs worldwide.
Keywords: PostDoc Marine Ecology, coral reef restoration, acoustic enrichment, Reef Pulse REACT project, marine biodiversity, soundscape ecology, coral larvae recruitment, marine acoustics
