34433BR
Plant and Soil Science
Position Description
Performs specialized Post Doctoral work in the planning, conducting and/or supervision of original research. Responsible for participating in a research project associated with PhD studies and the interpretation of the results of publication. Work is performed under supervision of graduate faculty members with evaluation based on accomplishment of assigned objectives and overall effectiveness of project. May supervise research and student assistants.
About the Department and/or College
The Davis College Water Center at Texas Tech University (Lubbock, TX) invites applications for a Post Doctoral position focusing on cutting-edge research in use of satellite-based remote sensing in tandem with drone and ground sensor data for water conservation and irrigation water management.
Major/Essential Functions
The position requires a wide range of knowledge and skills that cover aspects related to working with remotely sensed data including drones and satellite images, sensor-based ground data for irrigation water management and water conservation.
This position offers an exciting opportunity for researchers with expertise in remote sensing, machine learning, big data analytics and crop -hydrological modelling to contribute to innovative projects addressing critical challenges in water conservation and agricultural water sustainability. The candidate will be engaged in various aspects of research, from field scale experiments to the development and implementation of state-of-the-art tools and approaches for water conservation, using ground sensors and aerial imaging.
- Develop new indicators and tools to enhance water conservation and sustainability across producer fields and research plots using data from soil sensors and satellite imagery.
- Test wide range of soil sensors and satellite data-based approaches for improving crop water conservation and water management in west Texas and Southern High Plains.
- Application of high-resolution satellite data (SMAP, Sentinels, Landsats etc.) and drone images using machine learning and AI techniques for mapping irrigation water requirements, tracking irrigation water use, crop type mapping, extracting phenology and monitoring agricultural droughts and their impacts.
- Access crop water productivity at different spatial temporal scales and under different climate change scenarios focusing on predominant cropping systems in the Southern High Plains.
- Actively involved in field experiments to obtain relevant ground truth data for finetuning outputs from satellite imagery-based outcomes.
- Involve actively in data analysis, interpretation and developing peer reviewed publications, draft project reports and participate in developing proposals related to water conservation and agricultural water sustainability
Required Qualifications
PhD in area of project specialization. Knowledge of modern research practices, the methods, resources, and standards thereof. Ability to organize work effectively, conceptualize and prioritize objectives and exercise independent judgment based on an understanding of organizational policies and activities. Ability to integrate resources, policies, and information for the determination of procedures, solutions and other outcomes. Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with other employees and the public. Ability to plan and allocate the workload of employees, providing direct training and supervision as needed.
Preferred Qualifications
Ph.D. in remote sensing, geography, irrigation management/engineering, agronomy, or crop science.
Previous research experience in satellite remote sensing, programming skills, and knowledge on irrigation water management and water conservation will be preferred.
Safety Information
Adherence to robust safety practices and compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations are responsibilities of all TTU employees.
Does this position work in a research laboratory?: Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
This is a three-year position with an available start date of September 1, 2023; however, the start date can be flexible. Applicants must utilize the Texas Tech University job portal to apply.
Inquiries can be sent to Dr. Krishna Jagadish (kjagadish.sv@ttu.edu). Please use “Post doc – Remote sensing for agricultural water sustainability” in the subject line.
Required Attachments
Cover Letter, Research Statement, Resume / CV
Job Type: Full Time
Pay Basis: Monthly
Pay Statement
Compensation is commensurate upon the qualifications of the individual selected and budgetary guidelines of the hiring department, as well as the institutional pay plan. For additional information, please reference the institutional pay plan by visiting www.depts.ttu.edu/hr/payplan.
Travel Required: Up to 25%
Shift: Day
Grant Funded?: No
Job Group: Research Staff
EEO Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or status as a protected veteran.
