Dr. Konrad Hafen is seeking a highly motivated Ph.D. or master’s student interested in pursuing graduate research in spatial hydrology or riverscape assessment to start during the Fall 2027 semester.
Students will join a research program that focuses on understanding how river systems, watersheds, and aquatic habitats function across varying spatial and temporal scales. Students will have the unique opportunity to shape their own thesis or dissertation topics from the ground up.
Students will be part of the Texas State University Department of Geography and Environmental Studies. Positions will be funded through departmental teaching or research assistantships. PhD stipends are $31,615.65 per academic year (nine months); master’s stipends are $15,676.47 per academic year. Ph.D. students will receive a 3-year tuition scholarship (master’s students are required to pay tuition, scholarship opportunities are available).
Potential research themes:
Applicants are encouraged to develop projects aligning with broad themes in spatial water science, including but not limited to:
- Riverscape Mapping and Analysis: High-resolution digital modeling (lidar, UAS), river network topology, and geomorphic assessments.
- Spatial Hydrologic Modeling: integrating GIS, remotely sensed datasets, climate datasets, and machine learning or physical modeling to predict watershed runoff, streamflow routing, or ecohydrologic connectivity.
- Catchment Characterization: Investigating river restoration, land-use, and/or climate change impacts on riverscape health.
Qualifications:
Required: Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Geography, Geosciences, Hydrology, Ecology, Civil/Environmental Engineering, or a closely related field.
Preferred Technical Skills: Strong quantitative background, proficiency with GIS software (QGIS, ESRI), basic coding experience (Python or R), and strong written and oral communication skills.
How to apply:
Interested candidates should email Konrad Hafen (konrad.hafen@txstate.edu) before submitting a graduate school application. Please use the subject line “Prospective Graduate Student – Spatial Hydrology” and attach a single PDF containing:
- A cover letter describing your research interests, relevant experience, and how your background aligns with spatial hydrology and/or riverscape assessment.
- Your current CV or resume.
- Unofficial academic transcripts.
For full consideration please reach out by November 16, 2026
