Postdoctoral Fellow

Job Summary

The Postdoctoral Fellow provides for an internship and continuation of scholarly activity and research after achieving the PhD or other doctoral degree under the direction of a senior faculty member who serves as a mentor for the postdoctoral appointee.

Additional Department Summary

This Postdoctoral Fellow position supports collaborative research between the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the University of Alabama focused on understanding water, soil, and sediment dynamics across critical environmental interfaces. The research addresses how human modification of landscapes affects water quantity, water quality, and sediment transport processes in laboratory and field environments.

This position utilizes advanced experimental facilities and instrumentation, including recirculating flumes, velocity measurement systems, spectroscopic tools, and numerical modeling platforms, to investigate hydrologic and sediment processes. Works closely with USGS scientists and University faculty at the Hydrologic Instrumentation Facility, a national hub for hydrologic instrumentation development, testing, training, and workforce development. Contributes to applied research, technology advancement, and scientific capacity building that supports nationwide water monitoring and research programs. Provides professional development through participation in seminars, workshops, and collaborative research activities within the USGS network.

Required Department Minimum Qualifications

Ph.D. civil engineering, geography, electrical engineering, computer science, geoscience, or related field. Candidates will need to have completed their Ph.D. or have it completed by the start of employment.

Due to requirements of the funding source, must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. Permanent Resident.

Skills and Knowledge

Knowledge of hydrologic, hydraulic, and sediment transport processes. Proficiency in the operation of research instrumentation including recirculating flumes, velocity measurement systems, and spectroscopic or geophysical sensors. Ability to collect, process, and analyze complex environmental datasets. Proficiency with scientific programming and data analysis software. Ability to prepare technical reports, manuscripts, and presentations. Familiarity with laboratory and field safety protocols. Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary research environments. Ability to manage research tasks and timelines independently.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with coupled hydrodynamic, hydraulic, or sediment transport modeling. Experience with numerical and computational modeling of water and sediment systems. Experience designing and conducting laboratory and field experiments. Experience with federally funded or multi-institutional research projects. Proven record of peer-reviewed publications or technical reports. Experience working with advanced laboratory and field instrumentation in environmental or water-resources research. Experience with U.S. Geological Survey data standards, quality assurance practices, or monitoring programs. Experience mentoring graduate students or junior researchers.