Research Associate, Biology, Environmental Science

Oklahoma State University seeks a Research Associate in Biology and Environmental Science to focus on soil moisture research. The role involves improving the Oklahoma Automated Soil Information System, developing monitoring techniques for drought and flooding, and contributing to grant proposals. Candidates need a Ph.D. in a related field and experience in remote sensing. This is a temporary, non-tenure track position based on the Stillwater, OK campus.
Research Associate
Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources
Oklahoma State University – Stillwater, Oklahoma

The Department of Plant and Soil Sciences in the Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at Oklahoma State University invites applications for a Research Associate in the area of soil moisture. This is an 11-month, non-tenure track, temporary faculty position at the main campus in Stillwater, OK.

Position Information
The Research Associate will play a lead role in a dynamic team working to advance the science of monitoring soil moisture at regional and national scales. Team goals include:
• Improving and expanding the Oklahoma Automated Soil Information System (OASIS), which maps soil moisture at 800-m resolution statewide on a daily basis.
• Developing new ways to use soil moisture information to monitor and mitigate threats such as drought, flooding, and wildfire.

The successful candidate will work within the context of the Oklahoma State University applied soil physics research group and will be expected to contribute to and develop grant proposals for future research funding.

Major Responsibilities:
• 70% Research - Improve and expand our existing automated, high resolution soil moisture mapping system by incorporating remotely sensed covariates such as land surface temperature and/or vegetation indices. Evaluate and improve large-scale soil moisture models and remote sensing products. Develop new ways to better monitor, forecast, and manage the effects of droughts, floods, and wildfires using soil moisture information.
• 20% Grant Writing - Contribute to and lead grant proposals to secure funding for continued and expanded research opportunities.
• 10% Group Support - Assist in all phases of the group’s work as needed including mentoring graduate and undergraduate researchers, grant reporting, financial management, teaching, and outreach.

Qualifications
Minimum qualifications include: a Ph.D. in Soil Science, Hydrology, Climatology, or a closely related field; three (3) years of experience with remote sensing of soil moisture; evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills; demonstrated proficiency for publishing soil moisture research in high-quality peer-reviewed journals; proven expertise in Matlab and Python coding; valid driver’s license with excellent driving record; and proven skills in writing successful research grant proposals.

Preferred qualifications include: a Ph.D. in Soil Science or Hydrology; strong background in soil physics and remote sensing; a good understanding of current in situ and remote sensing-based soil moisture measurement technologies; experience applying soil moisture data for drought monitoring, streamflow forecasting, or wildfire danger ratings; proficiency in publishing research related to remote sensing of soil moisture; demonstrated skill to manage and analyze large datasets;

and demonstrated ability to perform field work.

Employment Conditions
This position is an 11-month, non-tenure track, temporary faculty position. The position will be filled by December 1, 2024, or as soon thereafter as an acceptable applicant is available. Salary is competitive and based on qualifications and experience. This is a benefits eligible position.

About the Department
The Department of Plant and Soil Sciences includes a diverse group of faculty, along with support staff, post-docs, and graduate and undergraduate students who are dedicated to the Land Grant mission through research, teaching, and extension. Our faculty pride themselves on collegiality and are focused on ensuring the success of our students, faculty, and stakeholders. More information can be found on our website (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Application
Applications can be submitted electronically at ; search for req
18588. To apply, candidates should submit: (a) a letter of application that includes qualifications, associated research activities, and a statement of research interest; (b) curriculum vitae; (c) official academic transcripts from their degree granting institutions; (d) names and contact information of three professional references. Questions can be directed to Dr. Tyson Ochsner, Professor and hiring supervisor (tyson.ochsner or ). Review of applications will begin 10/25/2024.

Review of applications will continue until suitable candidates are selected.

Equal Employment Opportunity
Oklahoma State University, as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. Oklahoma State University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, sex, color, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, or veteran status with regard to employment, educational programs and activities, and/or admissions.

For more information, visit .
#J-18808-Ljbffr