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Postdoctoral Associate in Soil Hydraulic Characterization, Environmental Sensing, and Hydrologic Modeling Virginia Tech in United States
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
USDA-NRCS funded project; salary listed as $53,550 - $65,029 commensurate with experience.
Country
United States
University
Virginia Tech
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About this position
This postdoctoral associate position at Virginia Tech’s School of Plant and Environmental Sciences joins an interdisciplinary team focused on soil hydraulic characterization, environmental sensing, and hydrologic modeling. The project is centered on developing innovative approaches to improve how soil hydraulic properties are measured and interpreted through novel sensing, modeling, and data integration.
The successful candidate will work with faculty in the Environmental Soil Science group and help connect field observations with sensor networks, remote sensing data, and process-based models. The research aims to advance understanding of soil-water dynamics, root water uptake, drought resilience, and how ecosystems respond to climate variability. The work sits at the intersection of soil physics, hydrology, and environmental monitoring, with a strong emphasis on quantitative analysis and computational methods.
The role includes disseminating results through conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications, and contributing to the day-to-day functioning of the research environment through laboratory maintenance and support for project equipment. The postdoctoral associate will also help train students and research assistants involved in the project, contributing to a collaborative and interdisciplinary team at Virginia Tech.
Funding details
USDA-NRCS funded project; salary listed as $53,550 - $65,029 commensurate with experience.
What's required
A PhD awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment, with at least one year of eligibility remaining, in Soil Science, Environmental Science, Civil and Environmental Engineering, or a closely related field is required. Applicants should have demonstrated experience in quantitative analysis of soil-water processes, strong computational and data analysis skills using R, Python, MATLAB, or related platforms, a record of peer-reviewed publications commensurate with career stage, and effective communication skills. Preferred qualifications include experience with soil hydraulic characterization, infiltration measurements, soil moisture monitoring, environmental sensor networks, hydrologic/ecohydrologic/vadose zone modeling (e.g., HYDRUS, SWAT, ParFlow), processing proximal and remote sensing data, teamwork in interdisciplinary research, and interest in independent research and external funding.
How to apply
Apply through the Virginia Tech careers portal using the job link provided. Review the posting details carefully and prepare materials demonstrating your quantitative, computational, and publication experience. If you need an accommodation, contact Dr. Huijie Gan at [email protected] at least 10 business days before the event.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.