Postdoctoral Researcher

23620BR

Civil/Environ/Arch Engineering

Position Overview

The University of Kansas is excited to announce a postdoctoral research opportunity to build process based watershed models using SWAT+ that will integrate with machine learning emulation models in support of biological and water quality objectives for the Midwestern US.  The postdoctoral researcher will work with the latest version of the Soil Water and Assessment Tool (SWAT+) to develop watershed models, incorporate additional aquatic biogeochemical processes into the SWAT source code and identify regional differences in parameterization and sensitivity across the models. This position is part of a USDA-funded, multi-institutional project to improve predictions of aquatic biological community responses to conservation actions in intensively managed agricultural watersheds. The postdoctoral position is limited term position for at least a minimum of one year under the supervision of Prof. Amy Hansen.  The position has the opportunity for renewal based on evaluation after one year term. The successful candidate must have appropriate work authorization and be physically present by the start date of employment. The University of Kansas is in Lawrence, Kansas, a mid-size college town located next to the beautiful Kansas River.

Job Description

60% Advance watershed modeling
Develop, calibrate and validate watershed models using SWAT+. Build upland response dataset to train machine learning models. Perform model validation and uncertainty analysis. Pass inputs and outputs between multiple spatial models including SWAT+. Work alongside project colleagues to identify and classify land response predictors of field-level model outputs across full basin using combination of GIS and existing machine learning model. Evaluate environmental outcomes of alternative scenarios by executing a coupled, upscaled model under scenarios of land use and land management change developed by a group of stakeholders.
20% Planning and collaboration.
Participate in planning, designing, and conducting watershed modeling research projects under the direction of a faculty supervisor. Analyze and provide interpretations of individual and cross-model scenarios. Collaborate with a diverse project team from multiple institutions across the United States to define overall project goals, share data, and communicate results.
20% Communicate science.
Complete writing tasks, including literature review, required to publish research in peer-reviewed journal. Contribute toward the preparation of technical reports, papers and/or records. Present results at scientific conferences and to stakeholders. Contribute to the development, preparation, and submission of externally funded proposals related to the research program.

Position Requirements

Work location statement – This position will be a hybrid of on-site work and remote work as deemed by supervisor.

Required Qualifications

NOTE: To be appointed at the Postdoctoral Researcher title, it is necessary to have the PhD conferred at the time of hire. Appointments made without a diploma or certified transcript indicating an earned doctorate are conditional hires and are appointed on an interim basis not to exceed 6-months. Upon verification of degree the appointment will be extended to its full duration.

Preferred Qualifications

Contact Information to Applicants

Amy Hansen
[email protected]

Advertised Salary Range

53,000

Application Review Begins

01-Nov-2022

Anticipated Start Date

05-Dec-2022

Primary Campus

University of Kansas Lawrence Campus

Employee Class

U-Unclassified Professional Staff

Work Schedule

Standard Hours

Conditions of Employment

Limited Term

Work Location Assignment

Hybrid

Disclaimer

The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university’s programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and are the Title IX coordinators for their respective campuses: Director of the Office of Civil Rights & Title IX, [email protected], Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785-864-6414, 711 TTY (for the Lawrence, Edwards, Parsons, Yoder, and Topeka campuses); Director, Equal Opportunity Office, Mail Stop 7004, 4330 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Fairway, KS 66205, 913-588-8011, 711 TTY (for the Wichita, Salina, and Kansas City, Kansas medical center campuses).