Postdoctoral Research Scholar: Modeling Headwater Stream Hydrology

About the role

Dr. Konrad Hafen is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Scholar to join his research team. The successful candidate will lead cutting-edge research focused on modeling streamflow magnitude and surface water presence in perennial and non-perennial headwater streams. Headwaters streams play a critical role in watershed hydrology. However, the dynamics of streamflow presence and magnitude in these systems are poorly understood. This project leverages advanced data-driven methodologies to bridge process understanding and predictive modeling across complex hydrologic landscapes.

Responsibilities

• Data Analysis: Process, analyze, and integrate hydro-climatic, geospatial, and observational datasets across headwater catchments.
• Model Development: Design, train, and evaluate deep learning architectures (e.g., LSTMs, Transformers, graph neural networks, etc.) and/or Bayesian statistical models to predict streamflow presence and magnitude.
• Dissemination: Lead the writing of peer-reviewed journal articles and present findings at scientific conferences.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Hydrology, Water Resources, Computer Science, Statistics, Data Science, Environmental Engineering, or a closely related discipline (must be completed prior to the start date).
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R.
• Methodological Expertise: Demonstrated experience with deep learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow) and/or Bayesian inference methods (e.g., Stan, PyMC, JAGS).
• Analytical Background: Strong foundation in time-series analysis and spatial-temporal data processing.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills, demonstrated by an ability to produce quality, peer-reviewed publications.

Qualifications

• Familiarity with hydrological modeling concepts and the dynamics of non-perennial streams.
• Experience working with large geospatial datasets.

Benefits

Salary: $65,000/year

Benefits details: https://www.hr.txst.edu/benefits.html

Schedule

• Duration: 1-year, with potential extension depending on funding acquisition
• Expected Start Date: January 2027 (flexible, open until filled)
• Position Type: Full-Time, Postdoctoral Research Scholar

Location

Texas State University, San Marcos, TX — Department of Geography and Environmental Studies

Apply via the Geography & Environmental Studies Postdoctoral Scholar Pool: https://jobs.hr.txstate.edu/postings/59055