PhD and Postdoctoral Positions in Global River Modeling, Hydrology, and Environmental Science Cornell University in United States

Multiple PhD and postdoctoral positions are available in global river modeling and hydrology as part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary project involving Cornell University, University of California Santa Barbara, and University of Maryland. The project aims to advance understanding of how water infrastructure interacts with river systems, focusing on the development of a global, time-series dataset documenting the evolution of river systems under human influence. Research areas include global hydrology modeling, impacts of infrastructure on sediment transport, water temperature, and biodiversity, as well as uncertainty analysis of the global hydrologic cycle.

The PhD position at Cornell University (Critical Infrastructure Systems Lab, Dr. Stefano Galelli) focuses on representing human actions in global hydrologic models. Potential research topics include estimating reservoir storage dynamics using satellite and geospatial data, reconstructing groundwater pumping and irrigation activities, and integrating human water-use datasets into global hydrologic models. Applicants should have a background in engineering, environmental science, Earth sciences, or applied mathematics, with strong quantitative and programming skills (preferably Python), and familiarity with hydrology, statistics, or optimization.

Postdoctoral positions are available at Cornell University (Dr. Stefano Galelli), University of California Santa Barbara (Dr. Rafael Schmitt, RS³ Lab), and University of Maryland (Dr. Thomas B. Wild and Dr. Kamal Chowdhury, Center for Global Sustainability). Research topics include large-scale catchment hydrology, sediment transport and geomorphic alteration, global indicators of river temperature and biodiversity, and uncertainty analysis of the global hydrologic cycle. Candidates should have a PhD in a relevant field, strong data-analytics and programming skills, and experience with hydrologic modeling, remote sensing, and geospatial analysis. Responsibilities include developing and implementing global hydrologic models, integrating datasets, preparing publications, and collaborating with multi-institutional teams.

Funding for the PhD position includes full tuition and competitive compensation. Postdoctoral appointments range from 12 to 24 months, with salaries following institutional scales and potential for extension. The positions offer access to computational resources, support for conference travel, and opportunities for international collaboration. The anticipated start date is March/April 2026, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis until filled.

To apply, follow the Cornell University Graduate School guidelines for the PhD position. For postdoctoral roles, submit a cover letter, CV, graduate transcript, and references to the relevant supervisor. For more information, visit the project website or contact the supervisors directly. This opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in global river modeling, hydrology, environmental science, and interdisciplinary research on water infrastructure and aquatic ecosystems.