University of Alberta
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Research Associate - Water Resources Engineering University of Alberta in Canada
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
Annual salary range: $65,369 to $81,719; comprehensive benefits package.
Deadline
Dec 17, 2026
Country
Canada
University
University of Alberta
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About this position
Research Associate in Water Resources Engineering at the University of Alberta
This full-time research associate role is based in the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Alberta, with work primarily taking place on North Campus in Edmonton. The project focuses on applying optimization algorithms to river basin planning and management, with a practical emphasis on daily reservoir operations for an irrigation district in Alberta.
The successful candidate will work with a river basin management model called WEB.BM, which simulates river diversions, reservoir storage, and reservoir releases under water licence and WCO/IFN constraints. The project aims to connect WEB.BM and related software components with a SCADA data monitoring system to improve control and optimization of water balance across the district’s canal system, including travel time, attenuation, and storage balancing processes.
The role is highly applied and collaborative. The research associate will interact with researchers, modellers, and practitioners at Optimal Solutions Ltd. and with the irrigation district, support day-to-day project management, coordinate meetings, and help present research progress and results. The position also involves modifying and applying the river basin simulation model to operational settings, developing scenarios, running simulations, quality controlling partner data, and conducting advanced analysis of model outputs.
The appointee will contribute to publications and reports, help prepare presentations and other outputs, and may co-author papers or draft first-author manuscripts under the supervision of the principal investigator. The environment combines engineering research, modelling, and real-world water management collaboration within a major Canadian engineering faculty.
Funding details
Annual salary range: $65,369 to $81,719; comprehensive benefits package.
What's required
PhD in civil/water resources engineering, computer science or mathematics. Experience in river basin modelling of multi-purpose, multi-reservoir systems through mathematical optimization, with special emphasis on network flow constraints. Practical experience using mathematical models for decision-making in real-world systems. Familiarity with Alberta's water rights allocation system, the SSARR river routing procedure, and the WEB.BM modelling platform are significant assets. Demonstrated scientific ability through publications in peer-reviewed journals and successful grant applications. Ability to organize and coordinate research projects involving multiple researchers. Excellent communication skills, ability to work in a group environment, and demonstrated interest in interdisciplinary research.
How to apply
Click 'Apply Now' to submit your resume and cover letter. To apply, visit the application portal link provided in the advert.
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Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.