The Center for Spatial Technologies and Remote Sensing (CSTARS) and the Tahoe Environmental Research Center (TERC) at the University of California Davis are recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to study the optical and benthic properties of the nearshore environment of Lake Tahoe using field spectroscopy and remote sensing.
The project seeks to use remotely sensed data to retrieve fine sediment, chlorophyll and colored dissolved organic matter (CDOM) concentrations from the water column in the nearshore, and to map the distribution of periphyton (attached algae), aquatic macrophytes and clam beds in the nearshore of Lake Tahoe. High and moderate spatial resolution multispectral satellite imagery, and airborne hyperspectral imagery will be used. The postdoctoral researcher is encouraged to pursue scientific questions that arise from these measurements and publish in peer-reviewed journals. The postdoctoral appointment is for 1 year beginning June 1, 2011 (start date flexible), with renewal for 1 additional year upon satisfactory progress. Prerequisites include a PhD by July, 2011 in hydrology, geography, limnology, ecology, or other relevant scientific discipline, expertise in remote sensing image analysis and its application to aquatic systems, including water optics, image calibration, and field spectroscopy. Other requirements include strong quantitative, statistical and project management skills, excellent verbal and written communication skills, a developing record of scientific publication, and a valid California driver’s license or ability to obtain one. Candidates should be comfortable programming with IDL, Matlab, R or FORTRAN. Experience with radiative transfer modeling a plus. Demonstrated experience with effective communication and engagement with local and federal resource managers is desired. Lake Tahoe is an ultra-oligotrophic, deep large lake in the Sierra Nevada internationally known for aesthetic scenery and crystal clear blue waters. It is located approximately 2 hours from the UC Davis campus. The incumbent will be hosted at CSTARS on the UC Davis campus, but is expected to travel frequently to Lake Tahoe. To apply, please send a cover letter describing qualifications and relevant experience, CV, a relevant writing sample (<25 pages), and contact information for three references to elhes...@ucdavis.edu. Please forward any enquiries about the position to Dr. Erin Hestir (elhes...@ucdavis.edu). The position is open until filled. Review of applications will begin May 1, 2011. -- Erin Hestir Center for Spatial Technology and Remote Sensing University of California Davis