Postdoctoral Research Associate - Two Positions

About the role

Many communities across Maine lack mapped floodplains, particularly in rural or low-population areas where detailed hydrologic and hydraulic studies have not been conducted. These gaps in flood hazard data limit the ability of state and local agencies to assess flood risk, plan mitigation strategies, and support emergency management. The Simulation and Terrain-based River Elevation Advanced Mapping (STREAM) initiative proposes to use high resolution elevation data and advanced modeling techniques to calculate 100-year floodplain surfaces. This approach builds on successful applications of non-contact modeling workflows in other New England watersheds and will provide Maine with a cost-effective, scientifically defensible foundation for future floodplain management. The individuals selected for this soft-money, grant funded position, contingent on funding and successful performance, will collaborate with a team of researchers, graduate students, and partners at state and federal agencies to develop these flood maps and by doing so support state flood resilience efforts and initiatives. Current funding exists through 12/31/2027.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with researchers, graduate students, and state/federal agency partners to develop flood maps using high‑resolution elevation data and advanced modeling techniques.
• Support state flood resilience efforts and initiatives through the STREAM project.

Qualifications

Required:

• Ph.D. in biological sciences, quantitative biological sciences, agroecology, hydrogeology, or related disciplines by date of hire.
• Experience with data management and coding in Python or R.
• Experience with GIS or similar spatial analysis software.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team.

Preferred:

• A strong publication record in topics related to this project.
• Experience with science communication and community engagement.
• A high degree of organization and commitment to quality science.

Skills

• Python or R programming for data management and analysis.
• GIS and spatial analysis software.
• Written and oral communication.
• Interdisciplinary teamwork.
• Organization