Post-Doctoral Associate in Geomatics (One-Year Appointment, Renewable Based on Funding Availability)

The UMSL Geospatial Collaborative at the University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL)

The UMSL Geospatial Collaborative at the University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL) seeks applications for a Post-Doctoral Associate in Geomatics. This full-time, 12-month research appointment begins January 1, 2026 (or earlier by mutual agreement) and is entirely research-focused, offering an outstanding opportunity to advance cutting-edge work in geomatics.

The position is on-site in St. Louis, Missouri, under the supervision of Dr. Reda Amer, Director of the UMSL Geospatial Collaborative, in collaboration with scientists from the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA). The postdoc will contribute to joint UMSL-NGA research initiatives that support national geospatial innovation and strengthen UMSL's leadership in the rapidly growing St. Louis Geospatial Ecosystem.

Key Responsibilities

* Conduct Research: Lead original studies in Geomatics, Geodesy, GPS/GNSS, and Geodynamics addressing key geospatial challenges.
* Collaborate with UMSL & NGA: Work closely with UMSL researchers and NGA scientists to align research with institutional and national priorities.
* Data Analysis & Innovation: Apply advanced spatial analysis methods using tools such as ArcGIS, QGIS, Python, R, and remote sensing platforms to develop innovative geospatial solutions.
* Disseminate Findings: Publish results in the NGA Tearline platform, peer-reviewed journals, and present at major conferences (e.g., GEOINT, AGU, Esri UC) and technical symposia.
* Engage & Mentor: Participate in research seminars and community engagement activities; mentor graduate and undergraduate students in geomatics and geospatial science.

This position supports a project funded by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, which limits participation in the project to citizens of the United States. As a result, only U.S. citizens are eligible for this position.

Required Qualifications

* Education: Ph.D. in Geomatics, Geodesy, Remote Sensing, or a related field (completed by start date); ABD candidates with a scheduled dissertation defense before the appointment start date are also eligible.
* Geospatial Expertise: Proficiency in geospatial tools and methods, including surveying, photogrammetry, GIS, GPS/GNSS, and related Earth-mapping technologies.
* Research Experience: Proven record of research productivity demonstrated through publications, presentations, or major projects in geomatics or related fields.
* Grant Development: Experience contributing to or preparing research grant proposals and technical reports.
* Collaboration & Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work independently and collaboratively with UMSL and NGA teams.

Preferred Qualifications

* GEOINT Experience: Familiarity with geospatial intelligence applications or projects supporting national security, defense, or intelligence missions; experience collaborating with NGA or other federal/industry partners preferred.
* Technical Skills: Proficiency in geospatial programming and analysis using tools such as Python, R, SQL/PostGIS, ENVI, or ERDAS; experience with spatial modeling or machine learning is a plus.
* Analytical Skills: Strong ability to manage and analyze large geospatial datasets, develop spatial models, and create innovative geospatial solutions.
* Academic Engagement: Demonstrated commitment to research excellence; experience mentoring students, leading projects, or contributing to proposal development is desirable.

Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience. The University of Missouri System offers a comprehensive faculty benefits package, including health, retirement, and tuition assistance. For more information, please consult UMSL Human Resources and review the UMSL Faculty Benefits Guide (PDF).

Applicants should submit the following materials as PDF files via the UMSL careers portal: 1) Cover Letter: outlining qualifications and interest in the position. 2) Curriculum Vitae (CV). 3) A brief research statement or summary of past research accomplishments and future research goals; 4) Contact information for three professional references including the applicant's Ph.D. advisor. For questions regarding this position, please contact:Dr. Reda Amer - Director, UMSL Geospatial Collaborative (Chair of the Search Committee) - Email: reda.amer@umsl.edu

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

This position supports a project funded by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, which limits participation in the project to citizens of the United States. As a result, only U.S. citizens are eligible for this position.

About UMSL

The University of Missouri-St. Louis is the region's premier public research university, enrolling nearly 15,000 students. UMSL is classified as a doctoral university with high research activity (R2) and offers a comprehensive range of academic programs while engaging in strong partnerships with government, industry, and community organizations.

Learn more: https://www.umsl.edu/geospatial/index.html

About St. Louis

UMSL is located in suburban St. Louis County, in a metro region of ~2.8 million people. St. Louis is an affordable, culturally rich city known for its iconic Gateway Arch, diverse neighborhoods, thriving arts and music scene, and world-class free attractions (including the Saint Louis Zoo, Saint Louis Science Center, and Saint Louis Art Museum). The city hosts 16 Fortune 1000 companies and multiple major research institutions, making it an attractive place for academic and professional growth. St. Louis is also home to the new western headquarters of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA West), making it a national hub for geospatial innovation and workforce development.

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.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please email the Office of Human Resources at umslhr@umsl.edu.