Position Summary

The postdoctoral research associate will join a collaborative, multi-institutional team to develop novel geodetic imaging techniques for improved characterization of permafrost physical processes. In particular, the researcher will use a combination of spaceborne and airborne geodetic datasets to characterize and quantify the major sources of measurement bias and uncertainty in interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR), laser altimetry, and radar altimetry measurements over land surfaces underlain by permafrost. This project is funded by the NASA Surface Topography and Vegetation Decadal Survey Incubation (esto.nasa.gov/incubation/ ); the successful postdoctoral research associate would have the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research and help define high-priority observables needing science requirements for the Surface Topography and Vegetation (STV) targeted observable.

Information on being a postdoc at Washington University in St. Louis can be found at https://postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs-2/ .

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Processes and analyzes InSAR, Lidar, and altimetry datasets.
• Develops software for postprocessing of derived geodetic parameters.
• Collaborates with researchers at Colorado School of Mines on developing optimal multi-sensor fusion approaches for reducing measurement error and bias in geodetic inversions over permafrost landscapes.
• Participates in project meetings and scientific conferences, including by giving presentations, to share the results and enhance project collaboration.
• Prepares and submits manuscripts for peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Earth Science or a related field, such as Physics, Geophysics, Electrical Engineering, or Environmental Engineering. Completion of all degree requirements is required at the time of appointment.
• Experience with remote sensing data processing and analysis, particularly interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR).
• Scientific programming experience.
• Prior success in bringing research projects to the stage of publication in a peer-review scientific journal.

Salary Range

Base pay is commensurate with experience.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu  or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.