Postdoctoral Fellow

The University of Richmond Department of Geography, Environment, and Sustainability seeks a postdoctoral scholar to contribute to efforts to co-design, with Native American Nations of Virginia, geo-dashboards focused on using remotely-sensed data, GIS, and spatial statistical analyses to assist in identifying environmental justice concerns building capacity for resilience and education. The postdoc would be supervised by Dr. David Salisbury and Dr. Stephanie Spera on a highly-collaborative, community-engaged NASA Applied Sciences Earth Action funded project. The term would initially be for one year, but is renewable for at least one additional year, contingent on funding and satisfactory progress.

The general research involves working closely with Co-I’s from Native American Nations in Virginia (Tidewater, Piedmont, and Blue Ridge Mountain Regions) and using remotely-sensed data, GIS, and spatial statistics to address Co-I needs and priorities, which may include mapping and monitoring land cover changes - specifically encroachment of development on wetlands and shoreline erosion; and changes in climate – specifically with regard to agricultural suitability, floodplain resilience, renewable energy, and tourism (cultural and ecological).

Applicants must have a Ph.D. by the start date, and relevant experience in physical geography, environmental studies, earth science, or a related field. Ideal candidates will demonstrate excellent communication skills, particularly in the form of published peer-reviewed papers and demonstrated community-engaged collaborative field research. Desirable skills include terrestrial remote sensing and statistical analyses (including spatial and multivariate analysis), experience with Python, R, and/or javascript (Google Earth Engine), and ESRI’S ArcGIS Suite, and participatory/collaborative research with local communities or community groups. 

Candidates should demonstrate interest in terrestrial remote sensing, spatial analysis, applied research, joining an exciting network of collaborators, and doing fieldwork and leading trainings and workshops with established collaborators. Anticipated start date is flexible, but ideally during/before summer 2025. 

Applicants should submit (1) a statement of research interests and goals, no longer than two pages and (2) a complete CV, including contact information for three references. These materials—and any questions—should be addressed to Dr. Stephanie Spera, sspera@richmond.edu. Review of applications will begin Feb 28, 2025 but will be accepted until the position is filled. Please mention where you saw the posting.

This postdoctoral position is unique in that it is a research-intensive position at a predominantly undergraduate institution. This postdoc will be introduced to a network of collaborators, and, should they desire, they will also have the opportunity to mentor undergraduates, guest lecture in classes, and develop innovative pedagogy at a leading liberal arts institution. The University of Richmond is committed to developing a diverse workforce and student body and to being an inclusive community. We strongly encourage applications from candidates who will contribute to these goals. For more information on the department and its resources, see http://geography.richmond.edu/.