Postdoctoral Research Associate - Department of Geology and Geography

The Department of Geology and Geography in the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences at West Virginia University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate. Under the leadership of Professor Aaron Maxwell, this position will contribute to a research project focused on the use of terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) data for mapping and monitoring forest fire fuels and prescribed fire efficacy in the eastern United States. We are seeking a candidate with expertise and interest in working with remotely sensed and spatiotemporal data, including TLS data, in the context of forestry and environmental management. The researcher will work towards developing and documenting fuel mapping workflows and publishing peer-reviewed scientific articles. This is a full-time, benefits eligible position.

The Department of Geology and Geography is in the process of transforming itself into a school focused on the physical and social dimensions of global sustainability. The department recently launched two new degrees in sustainability: Earth and Environmental Science (B.S.) and Sustainability Studies (B.A.) that are already attracting significant numbers of new majors. These new undergraduate programs complement an MA and PhD in Geography, MS and PhD in Geology, MS in Geospatial Science and a graduate certificate program in GIS and Spatial Analysis. Further information can be found at the Department website.

Responsibilities:

Responsibilities will include but are not limited to the following: conduct terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) and geospatial data processing and analysis; develop and document code; prepare, write, review, and submit academic manuscripts, attend meetings and coordinate with other researchers, conduct field work and coordinate research travel, compile reports and track project progress.

Professional Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in Remote Sensing, Forestry, Geography, Geospatial Science, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field by August 2025 is required.
• In addition, the successful applicant must show evidence of: the ability to apply machine/deep learning, other modeling methods, and data mining visualization to applied problems and geospatial data; the ability to code in Python or R languages (intermediate to advanced level); demonstrated excellent written and oral communication skills; demonstrated excellent interpersonal skills.

Application:

To apply, please visit WVU Careers. Upload the following: A curriculum vitae and a letter of interest that describes your experience and interest in the research area.

The screening process will begin September 12, 2025, and continue until the position is filled. For more information, contact Dr. Aaron Maxwell - Aaron.Maxwell@mail.wvu.edu.

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