"TTU Post Doctoral Research Associate - Flooding"

Position Description

Performs specialized Post Doctoral work in the planning, conducting and/or supervision of original research. Responsible for participating in a research project associated with PhD studies and the interpretation of the results of publication. Work is performed under supervision of graduate faculty members with evaluation based on accomplishment of assigned objectives and overall effectiveness of project. May supervise research and student assistants.

Major/Essential Functions

• Design and conduct qualitative data collection (e.g., interviews) with National Weather Service forecasters, emergency managers, and related practitioner communities.
• Synthesize user needs related to flash-flood detection, warning, and risk communication, including desired data types, spatial and temporal resolution, and product formats.
• Translate user needs into design requirements for new flash-flood detection and decision-support products in collaboration with meteorologists, engineers, and hydrologists.
• Contribute to the assessment of prototype products, including user feedback and iterative refinement.
• Lead and co-author technical reports and conference presentations based on project findings.

Required Qualifications

PhD in area of project specialization. Knowledge of modern research practices, the methods, resources, and standards thereof. Ability to organize work effectively, conceptualize and prioritize objectives and exercise independent judgment based on an understanding of organizational policies and activities. Ability to integrate resources, policies, and information for the determination of procedures, solutions and other outcomes. Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with other employees and the public. Ability to plan and allocate the workload of employees, providing direct training and supervision as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a social science or closely related field (e.g., geography, sociology, anthropology, communication, science and technology studies, public policy, emergency management).
• Two years of experience working in research / applied work in hazards and disasters contexts (research, practice, or a combination), with a demonstrated focus on disaster risk assessment and warning communication.
• Experience with qualitative, mixed methods research, including data collection and analysis.
• Experience working directly with expert communities in disasters, such as National Weather Service forecasters, emergency managers, hydrologists, or similar operational partners.
• Experience or training in user-centered design, human factors, or UI/UX, especially involving decision-support tools or risk communication products.
• Evidence of successful collaboration on interdisciplinary teams involving physical/engineering and social sciences.

Pay Range

$48,000 - $63,700 - $78,400

National Wind Institute