Urban Wet Carbon Accounting and Climate Change

The position at ORAU focuses on Urban Wet Carbon Accounting and Climate Change in Canada, evaluating the carbon storage capacities of wetlands in the New York region. The role involves using satellite remote sensing and field data to assess carbon stocks and fluxes, supporting methodologies for coastal wetland ecosystems. Strong skills in remote sensing, GIS, or blue carbon science are required. The job is full-time and was posted 2 days ago.
Project Overview:

Wetlands play a critical role in the global climate system—serving as sources, sinks, and reservoirs of carbon. This research focuses on evaluating carbon storage capacities of wetlands in the New York region, particularly in the context of environmental degradation and ecosystem restoration. The study aims to assess the biogeochemical significance of these wetlands and their relevance to regional climate mitigation efforts.

Using a combination of satellite remote sensing and ground-based observational data, the project will quantify carbon stocks and fluxes across the lower Hudson Valley and Long Island Sound. It will also support the development of methodologies suitable for Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) frameworks applied to coastal wetland ecosystems.

The successful applicant will integrate remote sensing technologies with detailed field and lab analyses to determine wetland distribution, sediment depth, and carbon content in both riverine and estuarine/marine settings. Additionally, the project will explore the contribution of these wetlands to lateral organic carbon exchanges with adjacent coastal and estuarine waters.

This integrated approach will provide a comprehensive understanding of carbon dynamics between wetlands, the atmosphere, and nearby aquatic systems. It will also offer critical insights into how land use, climate change, and habitat transformations influence these carbon reservoirs—information vital for informed carbon management and policy development.

Required Expertise: Strong proficiency in remote sensing, GIS, or blue carbon science is essential.

Scientific Discipline: Earth Science