Position Type: Full-time, 12-month

Brief Job Description: The Missouri Climate Center (MCC) and Missouri Resource Assessment Partnership (MoRAP) at the University of Missouri are seeking two Academic Research Scientist positions in soil moisture mapping and modeling. The research scientists will work under the supervision of the PIs to partner with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MoDNR) in support of the Missouri Hydrology Information Center (MoHIC) Soil Moisture Initiative. The team will work to complete two major project objectives: (1) develop and implement a soil moisture mapping and modeling framework for the state of Missouri, (2) develop a computational framework that integrates the models and delivers statewide daily soil moisture maps in near real-time. The selected candidate will have a unique opportunity to participate in a 2-year project that will have broad relevance and applicability, impacting decision-making processes and fostering public engagement. Results from this work will form a cornerstone of the planned MoHIC dashboard, which will serve as a widely accessed public resource. There will be opportunities and support for the candidate to present their work at state and national conferences.

Responsibilities:

Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop machine learning approaches for mapping and modeling statewide soil moisture in Missouri.

Conduct literature reviews and stay current with advancements in soil moisture mapping techniques and machine learning algorithms.

Collect, process, and analyze geospatial and remote sensing data related to soil moisture.

Develop and implement algorithms to integrate soil moisture data with existing computing systems to produce daily maps of various soil moisture-related variables.

Assist in the dissemination of research findings through publications in peer-reviewed journals, presentations at conferences, and regular reports to Missouri's Department of Natural Resources

Minimum Qualification:

Master's or Ph.D. degree in Natural Resources, Geography, Environmental Science, Remote Sensing, Computer Science, or a related field.

Candidates will be evaluated on:

Strong background in machine learning, geospatial analysis, and remote sensing techniques.

Experience with programming languages such as Python, R, and others for data analysis and algorithm development.

Proficiency in working with geospatial data formats (e.g., raster, vector) and GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS).

Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information to diverse audiences.

Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and manage multiple tasks effectively.

Prior experience with soil moisture research or related environmental modeling projects is desirable but not required.

Starting date: August 1, 2024, or as negotiated.

To apply for this position, go to https://hr.missouri.edu/job-openings, Job ID 51563.

Interested candidates should submit the following materials via email to Dr. Zachary Leasor (leasorz@missouri.edu), Director of the Missouri Climate Center and Michael Sunde (sundem@missouri.edu), Director of the Missouri Resource Assessment Partnership (MoRAP):

Cover letter outlining your research experience, interests, and why you are interested in this position.

Curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting relevant qualifications, skills, and experience.

Contact information for three professional references.

Application Deadline: Open until filled.

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourage individuals from underrepresented groups to apply. We thank all applicants for their interest in this position; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

About Us: MU, the flagship institution in the University of Missouri System, has nearly 31,000 undergraduate and graduate students. It is a land grant institution and a member of the Association of American Universities. Located midway between St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is a vibrant small city that is consistently ranked among the top such places to live in across America. The School of Natural Resources awards B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees in Natural Resources with emphases in multiple sub-disciplines. Detailed information about the programs and faculty is available at http://snr.missouri.edu. The School resides within the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (http://cafnr.missouri.edu), with five complementary divisions across a broad array of agricultural disciplines. Both CAFNR and SNR have robust collaborative ties to state and federal agencies charged with managing agriculture and natural resources and numerous opportunities are available to access and conduct research on the extensive and diverse public lands surrounding Columbia.

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Values Commitment

We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person's success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research, and engagement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy applies to all employment decisions including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, pay practices, benefits, disciplinary actions and terminations. For more information, visit https://www.umsystem.edu/ums/hr/eeo or call the Director of Employee and Labor Relations at 573-882-2146.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.