A fully funded PhD assistantship is available at the Department of Geography, Oklahoma State University, as part of the NASA-funded HI-GRASS (Holistic Investigation of Grassland Systems across Scales) project. The research focuses on hyperspectral remote sensing of grassland ecosystems, integrating UAS-, airborne-, and satellite-based imaging spectroscopy with field observations of biodiversity. The successful candidate will join a dynamic geospatial technology community and work under the supervision of Dr Hamed Gholizadeh, Associate Professor.

Key research areas include remote sensing, hyperspectral imaging, biodiversity, grassland ecology, and geospatial analysis. The project aims to advance the understanding of grassland systems using cutting-edge imaging spectroscopy and field data, contributing to both environmental science and geography.

Applicants must hold a master's degree (by appointment date) in Remote Sensing or a related field and demonstrate programming experience (Python, R, or MATLAB), experience in hyperspectral remote sensing, a strong research background, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Additional requirements include excellent written and verbal communication skills, first-author peer-reviewed publications, a background in statistical methods, willingness to conduct fieldwork, and an interest in grassland systems. Preferred qualifications are experience with high-performance computing, an FAA remote pilot licence, and familiarity with grassland ecology.

The position is fully funded through the NASA HI-GRASS project, covering tuition and providing a stipend (exact amount not specified). The preferred start date is May 2026, with a priority application deadline of January 15, 2026. Applications will be reviewed continuously until the position is filled.

To apply, interested candidates should contact Dr Hamed Gholizadeh at [email protected], submitting a CV and a brief cover letter outlining research interests and career goals.