The Desert Research Institute (DRI) is accepting applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher or an Assistant Research Professor in Hydrologic Sciences and/or Hydrologic Engineering within the Division of Hydrologic Science (DHS). The area of specialization is open; however, we are seeking a candidate to catalyze new and creative research programs that intersect and complement existing expertise at DRI. Experience conducting research using a variety of approaches (e.g., models, data mining, fieldwork, laboratory experiments), and experience working with the public, and state and federal agencies are preferred but not required. This posting may be used for multiple hires.  We are particularly interested in candidates who can clearly communicate technical work to citizens and stakeholders, resource managers, policy makers and rights holders.  After reviewing existing research expertise in DHS, the incumbent should highlight in their cover letter how their research program would not only complement, but also extend the research portfolio of the Division.

The incumbent may choose to work at either the Reno or Las Vegas, NV campus. At the Assistant Research Professor level, hybrid or remote work may be possible. Although the incumbent will reside within DHS, they will also have the opportunity to work with colleagues in the other two Divisions at DRI: the Division of Atmospheric Sciences (DAS) and Division of Earth and Ecosystem Sciences (DEES). A combination of technical and interpersonal communication skills is required. A startup package commensurate with the hiring level and candidate’s research area and experience is available.

Required qualifications for the Postdoctoral Researcher

• Ph.D. from an accredited institution in a field providing appropriate training for a successful career solving challenges in hydrologic science or engineering.
• Demonstrated ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals.
• Demonstrated ability to engage with faculty, researchers and/or students beyond your advisor’s research group.
• Potential to secure external research funding.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Required qualifications for the Assistant Research Professor include the Postdoctoral Researcher requirements plus

• Demonstrated superior expertise in hydrologic sciences or engineering.
• Demonstrated ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals on research done in an area(s) outside of the candidate’s dissertation topic.
• Demonstrated ability to engage with sponsors and stakeholders.
• Potential to initiate, plan, obtain funding, and carry out research projects.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in securing and managing external funding as Principal Investigator or Co-Principal Investigator.
• Experience with modern scientific programming languages (Python, R, Matlab, C++, and machine learning).
• Experience with geospatial data processing and mapping software, for example ArcGIS, QGIS, GDAL
• U.S. Citizenship (may be required by sponsor for collaboration with some existing DRI programs).

DRI Promotion Potential and Career Progression

DRI faculty are supported through competitive grants and contracts with external funding agencies, and faculty therefore have access to considerable administrative support and an Institute-wide entrepreneurial approach to maintaining success in developing funding programs. DRI has been successful in using this model to create scientific breakthroughs and applied science solutions to some of the most challenging problems facing the nation and the world for over 60 years.

Postdocs and early career faculty are provided with considerable support and mentoring to give them every opportunity to be successful in a research career. A DRI postdoctoral research position has long served as the first step to a successful research career at DRI and at other institutions. Promotion from Postdoctoral Researcher to Assistant Research Professor can occur when the Postdoctoral Researcher demonstrates the ability to develop and sustain their own funding. Promotion in the Research Professor ranks follows the standard academic track (Assistant Research Professor, Associate Research Professor, Research Professor) and depends on the sustained success and funding of the faculty member’s research program.

DRI is a research-focused institution and teaching and advising of graduate students is not required but is possible through the Graduate Schools at the University of Nevada Reno and the University of Nevada Las Vegas. 

Salary/Benefits

The minimum annual starting salary for the Postdoctoral Researcher is $60,000 and the minimum annual starting salary for the Assistant Research Professor is $82,000. Final salary is commensurate with experience and education. The DRI Human Resources office performs periodic equity reviews to ensure that faculty salaries keep pace with the market. Incoming Faculty members receive compensation support and startup packages as they develop their independent research portfolios. Early career Scientific Staff receive compensation support and startup packages as they develop their independent research portfolios.

DRI offers a benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, and life insurance, 12 paid holidays, educational benefits, the option to participate in a flexible spending account or health savings account, and a retirement plan that is beyond compare. Postdocs receive a 6.2% retirement contribution match, 15 annual leave days, and a beginning balance of 15 sick leave days. Assistant Research Professors receive a 17.50% retirement contribution match, 24 annual leave days, and beginning balance of 30 sick leave days. You are 100% vested in the retirement plan on your first day. Additionally, there is no state income tax in Nevada and no social security deduction. This position is eligible for relocation assistance . A summary of postdoc benefits can be found HERE and a summary of the faculty benefits can be found HERE .  Additional information can be found at www.dri.edu/careers.

Organizational Summary

The Desert Research Institute (DRI) is a recognized world leader in basic and applied environmental research. Committed to scientific excellence and integrity, DRI faculty, students who work alongside them, and staff have developed scientific knowledge and innovative technologies in research projects around the globe.

Since 1959, DRI’s research has advanced scientific knowledge on topics ranging from humans’ impact on the environment to the environment’s impact on humans. DRI’s impactful science and inspiring solutions support Nevada’s diverse economy, provide science-based educational opportunities, and inform policymakers, business leaders, and community members. With campuses in Las Vegas and Reno, DRI serves as the non-profit research arm of the Nevada System of Higher Education.

DRI is deeply committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive workforce and recognizes that encouraging a diverse culture strengthens problem solving skills and creativity, and increases productivity. Additionally, an inclusive and diverse environment improves the workplace culture and encourages employee engagement. DRI also takes measures consistent with Title IX to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its students, faculty and staff. Additional information can be found at DRI's Diversity and Inclusion Webpage .

Required Attachments

Please upload the following documents in the specified section:

• A cover letter detailing how your experience and professional qualifications prepare you to succeed in this role at DRI.
• A current curriculum vita.
• For Postdoctoral Researcher applicants only: Identify areas of research interest.
• For Assistant Research Professor applicants only: A plan for your intended research program and potential sponsors who will fund that plan (2 page maximum).
• Contact information for three professional references who will be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process based on applicant permission.

Qualified individuals are encouraged to apply immediately and provide all required attachments to receive full consideration. Lists of eligible candidates will be established and hiring may occur early in the recruiting process. Recruitment will close without notice when a sufficient number of applications are received, or a hiring decision has been made.

For more detailed information about DRI and DRI faculty, research projects, and publications, please visit us at www.dri.edu . For questions regarding this position or assistance with your application, please email jobs@dri.edu or call the recruiting office at 775-673-7431.