Postdoctoral Researcher Position—Soil Monitoring

SUMMARY: We seek a postdoctoral researcher to collaborate on a new project focused on building a global soil spectroscopy network and estimation service. The use of diffuse reflectance spectroscopy for rapid and low-cost provision of soil data is rising throughout the world. Working with multiple global partners, this project will create a network for coordinating these different efforts with a goal of building and deploying an open-source web-based soil spectral estimation service. We will tackle many of the outstanding technical challenges needed to harmonize soil data and spectral databases and develop multiple use cases demonstrating the utility of expanded soil data for applications ranging from sustainable land management to climate change.

Responsibilities:

• Network coordinator – you will be the primary point of contact for all network members and facilitate working group meetings • Design and execute experiments to optimize various aspects of soil spectral predictions • Stay current on soil spectroscopy and chemometric literature • Maintain website and communicate effectively with interested stakeholders • Publish and present findings at national and international meetings

Qualifications and Experience:

• Ph.D. (granted or expected soon) in soil science, earth system science, environmental data science, chemistry, computer sciences, mathematics, or related disciple. • Working knowledge of spectroscopy – soil applications highly preferred – or pedometrics • Demonstrated multivariate or machine learning data analysis skills and familiarity with open source ML libraries. • Ability to implement and modify complex code and learn new programming skills as needed. • Strong data management skills including familiarity with metadata standards and relational database structures. • Experience facilitating group meetings, public speaking and networking.

Application Deadline: September 1, 2020, or until filled

Desired Start Date: October 1, 2020

Classification and Compensation: This is a full-time, salaried, exempt position. The salary range is $60,000 to $65,000. Contingent upon funding, this is a 2.5-year appointment with the potential to extend. WHRC offers a very generous benefits package.

Location: Falmouth, Massachusetts preferred, remote possible

Application Instructions: To apply, please send your cover letter addressing your experience and qualifications in relation to the responsibilities of this position, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references as a single PDF to jobopenings@whrc.org. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Please type JSPD20 in the subject line.

For specific questions about the position please contact Dr. Jonathan Sanderman at jsanderman@whrc.org.

Located on a 10-acre campus near the village of Woods Hole, the Woods Hole Research Center (WHRC) is a private, non-profit research organization and leader in addressing the great global environmental issues of our time through science and policy. Its core focus is to conduct high quality scientific research, and policy analysis/implementation, on environmental and economic issues, particularly climate change. WHRC has 65 staff members, and attracts some of today’s top experts on global environment issues.

WHRC is an equal opportunity employer and we welcome applications from those who contribute to our diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, mental, or physical disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, familial status, veteran status, or genetic information. WHRC is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for all individuals in employment practices, services, programs, and activities.

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