Postdoctoral Research Associate - Department of Geology and Geography

The Department of Geology and Geography in the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences at West Virginia University (WVU) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher. Under the leadership of Aaron Maxwell, the incumbent in this position will conduct research in the field of Geography. This is a full-time, 9-month, benefits-eligible position.

The West Virginia University Department of Geology and Geography in collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Northern Research Station is seeking a post-doctoral researcher to contribute to a research project focused on the use of terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) data for mapping and monitoring forest fire fuels and prescribed fire efficacy in the eastern United States. The researcher will work within the remote sensing lab and under the supervision of a faculty member and Forest Service researchers on a project focused on developing techniques to extract fuel-related information from TLS data to support fire management.

Responsibilities

• Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) and geospatial data processing and analysis
• Code development and documentation
• Academic manuscript preparation, writing, review, and submission
• Attending meeting and coordinating with other researchers
• Field work/travel to field sites/travel to meet with collaborators
• Project reporting

Professional Qualifications

• A PhD in Remote Sensing, Forestry, Geography, Geospatial Science, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field at the time of appointment.
• A minimum of six (6) months of experience in each of the following:
  • Applying machine/deep learning, other modeling methods, and data mining and visualization to applied problems and geospatial data
  • Programming in Python and/or R at an intermediate to advanced level.
  • Developing documentation and manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed academic outlets
• Background in spatial predictive modeling with experience training, refining, and validating machine learning and deep learning models
• Understanding of research workflows/best practices and the peer review publication process
• Understanding of forest fire mapping and modeling methods
• Knowledge of geospatial and terrestrial laser scanning data

The successful candidate may be permitted to begin employment prior to degree confirmation with a letter certifying the trainee has completed all degree requirements from their university.

Application Instructions

To apply, please visit https://careers.wvu.edu/career-opportunities. Upload the following: 1) a curriculum vitae; 2) an application letter that discusses relevant experience and interest in research area; and 3) contact information for three references that can provide recommendation letters.
The screening process will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. For further information, contact Aaron Maxwell at aaron.maxwell@mail.wvu.edu.

About Morgantown

Morgantown, WV is a growing university city. The area offers abundant outdoor recreation and the cultural opportunities of a college town. It is within easy driving distance of Pittsburgh, PA (70 mi) and is within a day's driving distance to Washington DC and Columbus, OH (200 mi).

About WVU

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.

From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.

At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values - service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation - unite us as Mountaineers.

Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.

West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.