UW-Madison - Post-doctoral Research Scientist

Post-Doctoral Research Associate on Remote Sensing of
Irrigation and Land Use Change:
The Gibbs Land Use and Environment Group (GLUE) at the University of Wisconsin-
Madison’s Center for Sustainability and the Global Environment (SAGE) seeks an
exceptional Post-Doctoral Research Associate with expertise in satellite remote sensing
and GIS to study irrigation and agricultural land use change across the United States as
part of a large interdisciplinary project aiming to inform US agricultural and bioenergy
policy. The applicant will lead and support projects focused on quantifying and mapping
current and historic irrigation status, changes in irrigated land use across time, and
associated impacts on crop water use and the environment.
The applicant will work closely with collaborators from the U.S. Geological Survey and
the agricultural industry to improve upon existing irrigation maps, develop new methods
for detection of irrigated land use change, and assess the accuracy of produced products.
Work may also include field data collection to support the analysis.
Ideal qualifications include some of the following:
• Strong skills in remote sensing, GIS, and statistical analysis
• Experience with image analysis and programming (Google Earth Engine and
Python considered ideal)
• Familiarity with water quantity concepts, U.S. agricultural practices or datasets,
and/or the modeling of ecosystem services
• Possess a Ph.D. or M.S. plus extensive research experience
Applications will be reviewed immediately upon submission. Preference is for a start date
during Summer 2017 or as soon as possible thereafter. Initial appointment will be for 12
months, with potential for continuation depending upon funding and performance. Salary
for this full-time position will be $48,000 per year, plus health insurance benefits.
GLUE is a vibrant and energetic group, with strong experience working on agricultural
sustainability and land change issues. Madison is widely recognized for its warm
community, high quality of life, culture and arts scene, and easy access to natural areas.
Costs of living are moderate, and public transportation and bicycle paths are easy
transportation options. There is a thriving international community.
To apply, please submit an electronic cover letter detailing qualifications, CV, and phone
and email addresses of three references to Holly Gibbs hkgibbs@wisc.edu