Associate Professor – Oceanography & Marine Science

About the role

PNGUNRE is seeking an Associate Professor in Oceanography & Marine Science to lead research, teaching and curriculum development at the Momis Ocean and Climate Research Institute (MOCRI) in Rabaul, East New Britain Province. The senior academic will enhance the university’s capacity in ocean, climate and marine resource management and mentor staff and postgraduate students.

Key responsibilities

• Provide senior academic and research leadership in oceanography, marine science, climate change and sustainable marine resource management.
• Develop and lead multidisciplinary research programmes addressing ocean, climate and marine challenges in Papua New Guinea and the Pacific.
• Teach undergraduate and postgraduate courses, supervise Master’s and PhD research, and contribute to curriculum design and review.
• Secure external research funding, develop competitive proposals and build partnerships with government, industry and international institutions.
• Contribute scientific expertise to policy development, community outreach and professional training initiatives.

Required profile

• PhD in Oceanography, Marine Science or a closely related discipline.
• At least ten years of relevant professional, academic or research experience with a strong publication record (minimum ten peer‑reviewed papers).
• Demonstrated experience supervising Master’s and PhD students and leading multidisciplinary research teams.
• Proven ability to attract external grants, consultancy projects and develop strategic partnerships.
• Understanding of PNG and Pacific environmental policies and capacity to translate research into practical outcomes.

Required skills

• Research leadership and project management.
• Grant writing and external funding acquisition.
• Curriculum development and academic mentorship.
• Stakeholder engagement with government, industry and international partners.

What we offer

• Base salary PGK66,465 – PGK81,235 per annum plus an International Market Allowance of PGK74,371 – PGK95,483.
• Opportunity to shape ocean and climate research in a unique Pacific setting.
• Access to MOCRI facilities and collaborative networks across government, academia and industry.