Postdoctoral Researcher, Numerical Terradynamics Simulation Group

Application instructions are located at the bottom of the page. Please apply directly through the University of Montana's career portal UM Jobs at https://umjobs.silkroad.com/ for positions at the University of Montana – Missoula, University of Montana Western (Dillon), and Helena College. Do not apply through Indeed.com or use easy apply through Indeed.com * .

The University of Montana Numerical Terradynamics Simulation Group (NTSG) in collaboration with The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Center for Sustainability and the Global Environment (SAGE) seek an exceptional post-doctoral researcher with expertise in geospatial analysis, statistics, and agricultural ecosystems to study land-use changes in North America’s grasslands.

The research scientist will use remotely sensed data and ancillary information to characterize recent and historical grassland dynamics across North America (Canada, U.S., and Mexico) and assess the drivers and consequences of this change, including interactions with woody encroachment and cropland expansion. Federal agricultural and conservation agencies will use this work to fund and target sustainability programs in working grasslands, including projects to mitigate climate change and protect habitats for threatened and endangered wildlife. The candidate will also have ample opportunity to contribute to a diverse set of ongoing projects advancing environmental conservation, sustainable bioenergy development, and climate change mitigation both in the U.S and internationally.

The researcher will lead the characterization and evaluation of a new continental-scale landcover product from the Rangeland Analysis Platform and conduct an analysis of the determinants and/or outcomes of multi-decadal land use change. The candidate will work closely with researchers at both the University of Montana and the University of Wisconsin as well as collaborators at the USDA NRCS, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and other wildlife and conservation partners. The candidate will also work with professional communication teams to develop outreach products to illustrate the rapid change occurring to North America’s grasslands and the impacts of these changes to nature and people.

The researcher will be joining a highly collaborative and purpose-driven team working on grassland conservation under the supervision of Drs. Tyler Lark and David Naugle. Flexible work arrangements are available with preferred home location of Madison, WI, and the candidate serving as a UMT employee with a courtesy appointment at UW-Madison. The city of Madison, WI, is widely recognized for its warm community, high quality of life, and easy access to natural areas. Costs of living are moderate, public transportation and bicycle paths are easy transportation options, and there is a vibrant international community.

Questions about the project can be directed to Dr. Lark at lark@wisc.edu.

The University of Montana is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and has a strong institutional commitment to the principle of diversity in all areas. In that spirit, we are particularly interested in receiving applications from a broad spectrum of qualified people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action : Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of “mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.

Position Details

• Position is full-time, 1.0 FTE, Letter of Appointment and includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits
• package including Insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program
• Salary for this position is $52,000 - $75,000 per year commensurate with qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• Background in remote sensing, ecosystem modeling and analysis, or economics
• Knowledge of agricultural and grassland ecosystems, conservation, or policy
• Experience with large-scale geospatial analyses and data management using cloud-based computing resources (e.g. Google Earth Engine) to help solve global environmental challenges
• Possess a Ph.D. or M.S. plus extensive research experience

Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to the Offer of Employment In accordance with University regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations. ADA/EOE/AA/Veteran's Preference Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request. As an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, we encourage applications from minorities, veterans, and women. Qualified candidates may request veterans’ or disabilities preference in accordance with state law. References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. Testing: Individual hiring departments at UM may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions. Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9).


How to Apply

Priority Application Date: Sunday, September 11, 2022 by 11:59 PM (Mountain Time)

The position will remain open until filled and application review will begin immediately. Candidates are required to submit the following materials online.

A complete application Includes:

1. Letter of Interest – addressing your qualifications and experience related to the stated required skills for the position. A general letter salutation such as “Dear Search Committee” or “Dear Hiring Manager” is acceptable
2. Detailed Resume – listing education and describing work experience
3. Professional References – names and contact information for three (3) professional references

Application instructions are located at the bottom of the page. Please apply directly through the University of Montana's career portal UM Jobs at https://umjobs.silkroad.com/ for positions at the University of Montana – Missoula, University of Montana Western (Dillon), and Helena College. Do not apply through Indeed.com or use easy apply through Indeed.com * .

Job Location Madison, Wisconsin, United States
Position Type Full-Time/Regular