Job Summary/Basic Function:

Serves in a temporary position that enables an individual with their Ph.D. to continue their training as a researcher and gain skills and experience that will prepare them for their research career in academia or elsewhere. As a postdoc, the position can perform mostly independent research, collaborate on a multi-scholar research initiative, or even may have lead responsibility for discrete components of a larger research project or program, all while under the general direction of a senior or principal researcher.

Department Overview:

A postdoctoral research position is available in the LEAF lab at Boise State University (https://www.leaf-ecohydrology.org/), funded by the USDA Agricultural Research Service. The successful applicant will work with a collaborative team to improve streamflow forecasts in mountain watersheds of the Western US by integrating spatiotemporal data through AI/ML and physics-based snow modeling approaches. The position is based in the Department of Geosciences at Boise State University in Boise, Idaho.

Level Scope:

After earning a Ph.D., the next step in the academic or research career path is often a postdoc. A postdoc is a continuation of a researcher’s training that enables them to further their professional development and start to transition from student to independent researcher. Postdocs also often take additional leadership or teaching responsibilities in their laboratory or department. These positions are usually two to three years and it is not unusual for a researcher to do more than one postdoc.

Essential Functions:

60% of Time the Postdoctoral Research Fellow may:
● Problem solve research challenges and model development, as applicable. This will take the form of creating a long-term spatiotemporally distributed snow mass and energy dataset using a physically based model, using a unique hydrometeorological dataset for the Reynolds Creek Experimental Watershed, and then apply Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) methods to integrate observed streamflow to reveal insights into spatiotemporal controls on runoff generation and streamflow.
● Contribute discrete components of a larger project under the general direction of a senior or principal researcher.
● Prepare complete documentation of research activities for reference purposes, including following applicable data management protocols.
● Analyze, interpret, and document research findings for review.
● Compare actual and expected results and suggest solutions to correct the deviations.
● Evaluate existing research or modeling techniques and recommend improvements to ensure quality and productivity.
● Assist in the preparation of proposals and reports.
● Assist in teaching classes.

35% of Time the Postdoctoral Research Fellow may:

● Prepare presentations for appropriate science meetings and conferences

● Manage the preparation, submission, and revision of peer-reviewed journal articles.

5% of Time the Postdoctoral Research Fellow will:

Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

● The selected candidate must be able to meet eligibility requirements for work in the United States at the time the appointment is scheduled to begin and to continue working legally for the proposed term of the appointment.
● Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
● Scientific writing skills demonstrated through peer reviewed publications.
● Ability to acquire accurate, reproducible data.
● Critical eye towards consistency, reproducibility, and the scientific method in general.
● Excellent project and time management skills.
● Strong interpersonal skills and mentoring skills.
● Advocate for safety and ethics in the work place.
● Extensive experience using scientific programming languages like Python or R to analyze hydrologic and geospatial data.

● Experience building or applying machine learning models.

● Prior experience using spatially distributed hydrologic models, specifically those with snow mass and energy balance components

Minimum Qualifications:

Requires a minimum of a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in a relevant discipline.

Preferred Qualifications:

● Extensive experience using scientific programming languages like Python or R to analyze hydrologic and geospatial data.

● Prior experience using high-performance computing and/or cloud computing environments for scientific computation.
● Experience building or applying machine learning models.
● Prior experience using spatially distributed hydrologic models, specifically those with snow mass and energy balance components.

Salary and Benefits:

Salary range is $55,000 to $60,000 annually and is commensurate with experience. Boise State University provides a best-in-class benefits package, including (but not limited to):

• 12 paid holidays AND the University is closed between Christmas and New Year's (requires use of 3 vacation days)
• Between 12-24 annual paid vacation days for full-time Professional and Classified staff depending on position type and years of service
• 10.76% University contribution to your ORP retirement fund (Professional and Faculty employees)
• 11.96% University contribution to your PERSI retirement fund (Classified employees)
• Excellent medical, dental and other health-related insurance coverages
• Tuition fee waiver benefits for employees, spouses and their dependents
• See our full benefits page for more information!

Required Application Materials:

(1) Cover letter articulating experience with physics-based hydrological modeling and/or data-driven methods, (2) current CV that includes names of 3 references.

About Us:

Nestled along the Boise River and steps from the state capitol, Boise State University fosters a vibrant and welcoming academic environment that fuels student and employee success. We’re a trailblazing institution, nationally recognized for our innovative spirit and commitment to positive impact on Idaho and beyond.

Boise State is proud to be recognized by Forbes as the only Idaho employer listed in the top 100 of all national midsize and large employers. We’re building a thriving community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, experiences, and perspectives come together to create a rich and rewarding academic experience. Applications from all backgrounds are welcomed.

Learn more about Boise State and living in Idaho’s Treasure Valley at https://www.boisestate.edu/about/