Careers @ MSU

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar to conduct research on the application of geophysical survey tools to quantify subsurface water dynamics and aquifer processes in irrigated agricultural systems. The successful candidate will integrate field-based geophysical measurements with hydrologic data and modeling approaches to improve understanding of water quantity, recharge, and subsurface flow in intensively managed fields.

This position emphasizes the use of noninvasive geophysical methods to characterize spatial and temporal variability in soil moisture, vadose zone properties, shallow aquifer dynamics, and irrigation impacts on groundwater resources.

Research Responsibilities

• Design and conduct geophysical surveys in irrigated fields using methods such as electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), electromagnetic induction (EMI), ground-penetrating radar (GPR), and related techniques
• Integrate geophysical data with hydrologic observations (e.g., soil moisture, groundwater levels, irrigation records, and precipitation)
• Analyze aquifer properties, recharge processes, and water quantity dynamics influenced by irrigation practices
• Develop and apply data processing workflows and inversion techniques for geophysical datasets
• Lead or contribute to peer-reviewed publications and technical reports
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams including hydrologists, agronomists, irrigation engineers, and extension specialists
• Support proposal development and reporting for externally funded projects

This is a one year position from time of hire with the possibility of extension based off performance and funding.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Geophysics, Hydrogeology, Hydrology, Geological Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a closely related field

Minimum Requirements

• Experience with near-surface geophysical methods (ERT, EMI, GPR, seismic, or similar)
• Strong quantitative and data analysis skills
• Experience with field data collection in agricultural or environmental settings
• Demonstrated ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals

Desired Qualifications

• Experience integrating geophysical data with groundwater or vadose zone models
• Familiarity with irrigation systems and agricultural water management
• Programming experience (e.g., Python, MATLAB, R) for data analysis and visualization
• Experience working in multidisciplinary research teams

Required Application Materials

C.V., cover letter, and contact information for three professional references.

Special Instructions

For more information, please contact Younsuk Dong at dongyoun@msu.edu.

Review of Applications Begins On

02/09/2026

Summary of Physical Demands

• Lifting 30 pounds to waist level, 25 pounds to chest level.
• Carrying 30 pounds 30 feet
• Pushing/pulling 60 pound cart up to a maximum of 300 feet.

Website

https://www.canr.msu.edu/bae/

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.