Jobs:Job-01285

From CSDMS
Postdoctoral positions in computational hydrology available at the University of Calgary, Canada
University of Calgary, , Canada
Apply before: 1 August 2023


We are seeking three highly motivated postdoctoral fellows in computational hydrology at the University of Calgary, located in the thriving metropolis of Calgary near the Canadian Rocky Mountains. With the recruitment of Prof. Martyn Clark to fill a new research chair in environmental prediction (starting September 2023), and the establishment of a new 30-person “water hub” in the Civil Engineering Department, the University of Calgary is rapidly growing its profile in water research. The postdoctoral fellows will work in the new water hub at the University of Calgary campus on projects led by Profs. Alain Pietroniro, Tricia Stadnyk, and Martyn Clark.

The available positions are:

  • Improving model representations of hydrological processes across the North American continent;
  • Estimating spatially distributed parameter fields in large-domain hydrological models; and
  • Developing hybrid process-based and machine learning models to simulate and predict hydrological processes.

Because of the computational focus of the work, a strong background in hydrological modelling, scientific software development, or high-performance computing is required.

Research environment:
Our research group builds tools to simulate and predict hydrological processes on spatial scales from hillslopes to continents and time scales from seconds to centuries. Some of our example contributions include ensemble forcing data for large-domain hydrological models, multi-scale modular hydrological models, continental-domain network routing models, ensemble methods for data assimilation, and process-based methods for model benchmarking and model evaluation. Much of our model development work is targeted toward applications in ensemble streamflow forecasting, water security assessments, diagnostic evaluations of hydrological change, water quality modelling, and improving how hydrological processes are represented in Earth System models.

We are committed to providing a safe, positive, respectful, accessible, and non-discriminatory workplace for everyone by ensuring that the Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Accessibility culture thrives within our research teams. The following principles shape our research environment: Equity – the research environment is most effective if each team member has the opportunity for intellectual and personal growth; Diversity – the research environment is most effective if it includes people with different backgrounds, perspectives, and world views; Inclusion – the research environment is most effective where all team members trust each other, support each other, and work together closely to help each other succeed; Accessibility – the research environment supports programs, services, and products so they are accessible to people living with various abilities. We recognize that preferred scientific approaches may differ for individuals and institutions, and rigorous yet constructive dialog about such differences are both welcome and encouraged.

Desired qualifications and skills:
Postdoctoral scholars should have a recent Ph.D. degree (0-3 years of postdoctoral experience) in hydrology, civil engineering, geography, environmental science, earth science, computer science, data science, physics, or related discipline, and meet some of the following criteria:

  • Demonstrated record of high-quality research and publication.
  • In-depth knowledge of hydrological and water resources principles, modeling and forecasting.
  • Experience handling large and heterogeneous geophysical datasets.
  • Strong competence in data preparation/analysis/visualization with Python, R, or a similar scripting and visualization language.
  • Competence in using Linux environments.
  • Experience with high performance computing.
  • Strong competence in programming with C/C++ or Fortran for model development & debugging.
  • Competence in software engineering best practices such as unit testing, use of modern version control systems, such as git, use of profilers / debuggers, software development etc.
  • Experience and dedication to open science.
  • Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and effectively in both spoken and written English.
  • Sharp analytical abilities and problem-solving skills.
  • Demonstrated leadership abilities and record of positive contributions in a team environment.
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision, multi-task, and prioritize workload.
  • Interest in mentoring junior team members.
  • Interest in science communication (e.g., blog posts, social media, and media interviews).

How to apply:

If interested in these positions, please send a cover letter, your CV, and a list of two references to Cindy Wheadon (cindy.wheadon@ucalgary.ca) before 1 August 2023 with “Computational Hydrology Positions” on the subject line. Other material may be requested after applications are reviewed. The desired start date is during the period September-December 2023.

Of interest for:
  • Hydrology Focus Research Group