The School of Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) is seeking applications for a Geospatial and Remote Sensing Data Scientist at the rank of Assistant Geoscientist. This 12-month, non-tenure track appointment will conduct basic and applied research on geospatial analytics, GIS, and soft computing techniques for remote sensing in the water cycle. The position is available for one to two years. The latter, after a first-year performance evaluation.

The successful candidate must be able to work independently and as part of a team within an academic research environment that fosters diversity, equity, and inclusion. Moderate travel is required. Summer fieldwork may be required. The apportionment is 100% research. This position will be in Lincoln, NE (remote working within the US can be considered in exceptional cases).

Specific Duties

• Plan, design, manage, and implement complex software projects in Python and JavaScript languages using Google Earth Engine, pandas, NumPy, rasterio, and other libraries related to processing satellite images and gridded weather data into surface energy balance processes and spatial water consumption (evapotranspiration). Conduct spatial statistical analyses and develop and implement data visualization techniques. Design and implement web-based interfaces. Develop, revise, and contribute to scientific reports, manuscripts, and research proposals and be able to provide management and technical assistance in geospatial technologies in a variety of application areas.

Required Qualifications

• Graduate degree(s) in geosciences or engineering with an emphasis in remote sensing for hydrology, weather, and/or land use.
• Strong programming and analytical skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Database development and management.
• Visualization technologies.
• Geospatial statistics and soft computing.
• Two years of experience after graduate degree completion.
• Hydrologic modeling and data assimilation.
• Experience in remote sensing and data analytics.

Recognizing that diversity enhances creativity, innovation, impact, and a sense of belonging, the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) and the School of Natural Resources are committed to creating learning, research, Extension programming, and work environments that are inclusive of all forms of diversity. Consistent with the University’s N2025 Strategic Plan, every person and every interaction are treated as important to our collective well-being and our ability to deliver on our mission.

Employment-based permanent residency sponsorship is not available for this position now or in the future.

Application Process

Review of applications will begin May 31, 2024 and continue until the position is filled or the search is closed. To view details of the position and create an application, go to https://employment.unl.edu, requisition F_240063. Click “Apply for this Job” and then “Faculty Application.” Complete the application and attach the following documents:

1. A letter of interest that describes your qualifications for the job, anticipated contributions to research, and your experience working in diverse teams or groups and your anticipated contributions to creating inclusive environments in which every person and every interaction matters (two-page maximum). See https://ianr.unl.edu/tips-writing-about-commitment-to-deib for guidance in writing this statement. Your curriculum vitae. Contact information for three professional references.

As an EO/AA employer, the University of Nebraska considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See https://www.unl.edu/equity/notice-nondiscrimination.