Postdoctoral Research Opportunities at Scripps Institution
The Scripps Postdoctoral Program, an annual competitive program at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography (SIO), offers funding for a broad range of research in the fields of Oceans & Atmosphere, Marine Biology, and Earth Science.
General Requirements and Process
To be considered for the Scripps Postdoctoral Program, applicants must have recently earned a Ph.D. (within the last 3 years) in a relevant scientific discipline, often related to oceanography, environmental science, or earth sciences. A strong research proposal aligned with the expertise and ongoing projects of potential SIO mentors is essential.
Application materials typically include a detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV), a research statement or proposal describing planned postdoctoral research, contact information or letters from references, and identification of a prospective SIO mentor who agrees to support the applicant's research.
Letters of recommendation are usually required, with 2-3 external references typically requested. These letters should provide a thorough analysis of the candidate's strengths and weaknesses, an overall evaluation of the candidate's performance relative to other students at a comparable stage in their careers, and an assessment of the candidate's training, former work, and suitability for the proposed postdoctoral project.
Deadlines and Key Dates
While specific deadlines for the 2025 application cycle have not been explicitly stated, external references and SIO mentors are expected to submit letters shortly after the main application deadline, often within 1-3 weeks. Confidential reference letters for Scripps Postdoctoral program applicants are due on 10/16/25.
It is highly recommended to consult the official Scripps Institution of Oceanography Graduate Division or Postdoctoral Affairs webpage or contact program administrators directly for the most accurate and up-to-date details on deadlines for external references and SIO mentors.
For those seeking a particular named postdoctoral program at Scripps or a linked opportunity, these typically have their own deadlines and can be found via Scripps job boards or UC San Diego job listings.
Tips for Applicants
- Research potential mentors and their ongoing projects to ensure a strong match for your proposed research.
- Prepare a compelling research statement or proposal that demonstrates your passion and expertise in the field.
- Gather strong letters of recommendation from individuals who can comment on your research potential and suitability for the proposed postdoctoral project.
UCSD is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and the Scripps Postdoctoral program has a strong institutional commitment to excellence through diversity.
Pursuing a career in science education and self-development could be achieved by applying for the Scripps Postdoctoral Program, which offers funding for research in fields such as Oceans & Atmosphere, Marine Biology, and Earth Science. To compete, applicants must submit a research statement or proposal that aligns with the expertise and ongoing projects of potential SIO mentors, along with strong letters of recommendation that evaluate the candidate's potential and suitability for the proposed postdoctoral project.
