Job description
Background
The widespread adoption of water quality monitoring probes has led to a significant increase in highfrequency monitoring in rivers. Whilst these measurements have helped us understand transient phenomena that were previously poorly understood, it remains difficult to grasp the spatial variations of these rapid phenomena. Modelling is a highly relevant complementary tool for understanding the natural environment in its full spatio-temporal context.
The MoQ’Eau project (Modelling of Watercourse Quality in the Hauts-de-France region), led by the Environmental Physical Chemistry team at the LASIRE laboratory at the University of Lille, aims to develop a hydro-biogeochemical model for modelling the natural environment, specifically in the
Hauts-de-France region. This model will assist water body managers in understanding these environments, particularly in the context of the transfer of aquatic environment management from the French state to inter-municipal authorities. Lilaea, a project partner, is a start-up specialising in
consultancy, expertise and awareness-raising regarding water management and will be able to use this model as part of its support for local authorities.
Job description
The successful candidate will be responsible for developing a river transport-reaction model. Initially, this model will be based solely on the integration of existing models, in particular the Rive model for biogeochemical reactions. It will focus on a small geographical area (typically an inter-municipal area) at high frequency (hourly) in order to ‘extend’ the data from on-site measuring devices. Efforts will be made to connect to databases specific to the Hauts-de-France region for the automatic import of the necessary data. The overall aim will be to facilitate application to various instrumented sites.
Tests to optimise the model to account for sediment resuspension in navigable waterways will then form the focus of the remainder of the postdoctoral fellowship.
Candidate profile
We are seeking a PhD holder in chemometrics, hydrology, aquatic chemistry or environmental sciences with experience in modelling and programming (preferably in Python).
How to apply
The postdoctoral position will commence as soon as possible in 2026 and will last for 13 months. It will be based at the Cité Scientifique in Villeneuve d’Ascq. The gross salary will be approximately €2,600 per month.
To apply, please send a cover letter, a CV and 1–2 letters of recommendation to Pierre Jean Superville, pierre-jean.superville@univ-lille.fr
Applications and interviews will be considered on a rolling basis until 15 June 2026.
