Description

The Applied Physics Laboratory at the University of Washington (APL-UW)  SEED (Science & Engineering Enrichment and Development) Postdoctoral Scholar Program welcomes proposals for independently designed and led novel research projects. Successful applicants will develop innovative research programs that expand or complement existing research projects, themes and technical capabilities of APL-UW. SEED scholars will be mentored by and collaborate with APL-UW researchers to ensure the success of their postdoctoral research projects.  Possible research areas include Oceanography, Ocean Engineering, Acoustics, Marine Robotics, Marine Energy, Polar Science, Medical Ultrasound, Signal Processing, and Autonomy. Proposals that reach across multiple research areas are particularly encouraged.

SEED postdocs will also have the opportunity to collaborate with scientists and students across the UW campus as well as other research universities. Each fellowship is a fully funded two-year position. SEED Postdocs will have the opportunity to pursue additional federal agency research funding opportunities to propel their careers after the 2-year fellowship period. Promotion and further developmental opportunities at APL are possible following the completion of the postdoc appointment.

Diversity is a core value at the Applied Physics Laboratory – University of Washington. We are focused on building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable research environment for all students, staff, and collaborators. We believe every member on our team enriches our community by exposing us to a broad range of ways to understand and engage with the world, identify challenges, and to discover, design and deliver solutions.

Compensation

The salary range is between $6,250.00 - $6,625.00/month ($75,000.00 - $79,500.00 annual), commensurate with experience and qualifications, or as mandated by a U.S. Department of Labor prevailing wage determination.

Relocation funding is available, ranging from $4,000.00 - $8,000.00 based on the postdoc’s geographic region relative to APL’s location on UW’s Seattle campus

Each postdoc will also receive a  startup research allowance of $12,000.00; research department(s) and/or PI(s) may supplement at their discretion.

More information can be found: https://seeyourselfapl.uw.edu/seed-postdoctoral-fellowship/ 

Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in a field related to APL-UW research.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and communicate the results through scholarly output (e.g., peer reviewed literature, conference proceedings, technical reports).
• No more than 36 cumulative months of prior postdoctoral experience.

Desired, not required

• Demonstrated potential to expand APL-UW research capabilities into new areas/applications.
• Demonstrated potential to engage with more than one APL research department, area of focus in new synergistic collaborations.

Application Instructions

Questions regarding the application process should be addressed to the SEED Committee (SEED@apl.uw.edu). The application process will proceed in three stages:

• Stage 1: Proposals (due January 15 2024): Pitch your novel research idea in a written proposal submitted alongside your initial application. The proposed research should be relevant to one or more of the broad research themes at APL-UW. A list of APL-UW departments can be found here: https://apl.uw.edu/departments/departments.php. There is no need to identify specific potential mentors and collaborators at this stage. Rather, you should pitch your own research idea that has the potential to engage APL-UW research groups. SEED proposals can not fund extensive new field campaigns or lab equipment. Proposals involving substantial field and/or lab work are encouraged to reach out to the SEED committee to learn about the existing and planned APL-UW field programs and lab capabilities. The proposal should be no more than 5 pages, double-spaced, excluding bibliography and figures, describing research to be pursued during a two-year tenure at the University of Washington. Also, provide a curriculum vitae to include a publication list and any additional scholarly output with the initial application. Inquiries about the initial application can be directed to the SEED committee (SEED@apl.washington.edu).

  • Please be advised that the pursuit of some research areas at APL-UW may be limited to US citizens. If you have questions or concerns about your proposal in this context, please reach out to the SEED committee.

• Stage 2: Virtual Interviews (mid-February 2024): The SEED committee will hold virtual interviews for selected candidates from stage 1 to learn more about proposed research and interest. Successful candidates at this stage will be matched with APL-UW mentors and collaborators to further develop their research proposals.

• Stage 3: Onsite Interviews:  SEED committee will conduct onsite interviews from stage 2 selected candidate. Candidates will be expected to give  seminar presentations onsite at Henderson Hall, Seattle, Washington.  

• Stage 4: Offers given (mid/late April 2024): Anticipated position start date in June-September of 2024: 

To request disability accommodation in the application process, please contact the UW's Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450, or 206-543-6452 (TTY), or dso@uw.edu.

Why APL-UW?

• Freedom of inquiry
• Unique mix of basic and applied research
• For the National Defense
• Environment, Health, and human prosperity

Our lab is the world around us! Check out a glimpse of our lab and See Yourself at APL!

See Yourself at APL! Take advantage of these opportunities and more at the Applied Physics Laboratory at the University of Washington. As an APL-UW employee, you not only get to enjoy the opportunities and benefits of UW, but also be a member of a team of world-renowned researchers, scientists, and engineers dedicated to bettering our campuses, state, country, and world by solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies.

Appointment Limitations

Appointment not to exceed 5 years, including postdoctoral experience(s) at other institutions.

Mentoring:  Postdoctoral Scholars are engaged in full-time mentored advanced training to enhance professional skills and research independence, and perform primarily research and scholarship under the direction and supervision of University faculty mentors.

Postdoctoral scholars are represented by UAW 4121 and are subject to the collective bargaining agreement, unless agreed exclusion criteria apply. For more information, please visit the University of Washington Labor Relations website: https://hr.uw.edu/labor/academic-and-student-unions/uaw-postdocs/uaw-postdoc-contract.