Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Remote Sensing And Earth System Science, April 2024

The Earth System Science and Data Solutions Lab (EssDs) at Schmid College of Science and Technology of Chapman University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow position in Remote Sensing and Earth System Science.

This postdoctoral position funded by the US Department of Education is available immediately for highly motivated individuals to join Dr. El-Askary’s Earth System Science and Data Solutions Lab (EssDs). The project aims to leverage Remote Sensing and advanced data science methodologies to address specific objectives of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). A critical position is available for an individual to develop groundbreaking assistive technologies for communities in California, the US West, MENA region and globally. These innovations will address urgent challenges including climate change, natural disasters, water accounting and productivity, water-energy-food nexus and contribute to the realization of the UN SDGs.

Chapman University is a nationally ranked, R2 Carnegie Classified, private institution offering traditional undergraduate and graduate programs in the heart of Orange County, one of Southern California’s most diverse and vibrant regions. Chapman’s campuses are home to nearly 10,000 students representing 50 states, 3 territories, and 78 countries. The 11 schools and colleges of Chapman, including Fowler School of Engineering, offer 65 bachelors, 53 master, and 6 doctoral programs, along with 60 minors and 17 integrated and bridge programs. Dedicated to forward-looking, personalized education, we create an environment for unlimited achievement by both our students and faculty.

Chapman University strives to enhance diversity and inclusion in recruitment and employment. For more information on diversity, equity, and inclusion at Chapman University, please visit our DEI webpage.

Responsibilities

We are seeking passionate individuals eager to broaden their expertise in the application of satellite imagery, ground-validation and holistic approaches combined with physical and machine learning models. Our goal is to devise optimal and integrated solutions addressing the unique challenges faced by underrepresented communities and developing nations in their pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Postdoctoral Researcher will conduct independent research and/or collaborate on this particular DoE research project; provide guidance and support to undergraduate and graduate students associated with the related projects; document research activities and publish key findings in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals.

• A Ph.D. or equivalent degree in Remote Sensing, Geographic Information Systems, water resources science, earth observations or a related field, awarded in the last six years.
• Demonstrated expertise in Remote Sensing, machine learning and data science.
• Demonstrated research experience related to global transboundary issues, water accounting, food security, crop switching, or extreme weather events across North America and/or Africa. (For example, work related to the latest Africa Sustainable Development report, which calls for accelerated efforts to ensure that Africa achieves its global goals by the 2030 deadline.)
• Demonstrated applied research encouraging the use of artificial intelligence to provide simple/cheap technological solutions that help adapt to climate change, increase water productivity, reduce carbon emissions, and support green economy transformation globally.
• (Preferred) An ability to work both collaboratively and autonomously, mentoring students of various levels.
• (Preferred) Demonstrated expertise in the application of satellite imagery, ground-validation and holistic approaches combined with physical and machine learning models.

Interested applicants should submit the following documents via Interfolio:

1. Curriculum Vitae

2. Cover Letter

3. Research statement indicating research interests, a summary of previous research portfolio, and future goals

4. Contact information of two references (reference letters are encouraged but are not required at the time of application)

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.  Please address any questions to Dr. Hesham El-Askary: elaskary@chapman.edu, and Dr. Wenzhao Li: wli@chapman.edu.

Applicants for the Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Remote Sensing and Earth System Science position are welcomed from any part of the world and are willing to adhere to the US regulations for authorized personnel to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

This assignment is set to begin in April 2024. Successful completion of a background check is required for the final candidate. This position is subject to final budget approval. The salary range for this Postdoctoral Research Fellow position is $66,560-$70,000. 

Chapman University is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic global community. The University is dedicated to enhancing diversity and inclusion in all aspects of recruitment and employment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. The University is committed to achieving a diverse faculty and staff and encourages members of underrepresented groups to apply.

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