Remote Sensing Research Scientist

Remote Sensing Research Scientist

University Corporation at Monterey Bay

Salary : $7,649.00 – $9,583.00 Monthly

Job Number : 2024-00049

Location : Various Field Locations (see posting)

Department : Applied Environmental Science

Description

Remote Sensing Research Scientist Water, Agriculture, Technology and Remote Sensing (WATRS) Lab NASA Ames Research Center / CSUMB Applied Environmental Science

This position is dependent upon grant funds. Subject to annual NASA review

Position February 1, 2025 through January 31, 2027

Priority Screening Deadline : January 6, 2025, all positions are open until filled

Under the general direction of the Principal Investigator under the NASA ARC-CREST Cooperative Agreement, the Research Scientist is responsible for conducting scientific research, deploying and maintaining instrumentation in the field, publishing scientific papers, and developing proposals for new research activities. Project focus : remote sensing of agricultural lands, with an emphasis on enhancement and application of satellite-driven evapotranspiration models.

The main objectives of the research include the advancement of satellite-based evapotranspiration (ET) models and the application of satellite and field observations to accurately quantify ET from agricultural lands and natural lands. Work under this position also includes development and evaluation of multi-sensor data fusion methods for use in ET modeling; implementation of soil water balance models to resolve ET from precipitation and irrigation; use ET data to assess agricultural consumptive water use; quantification of meteorological data uncertainty on ET model uncertainty; and applications of ET and consumptive use to support advances in system water efficiency. This position is within the Water, Agriculture, Technology and Remote Sensing (WATRS) lab and will work closely with scientists at NASA Ames Research Center. The successful candidate will have the opportunity and support to develop and lead innovative research on remote sensing applications for agriculture and water resources management.

Examples of Duties

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to, the following :

• Conduct research to evaluate methods and develop a strategy for multi-sensor land-surface temperature observations into satellite-driven ET models.
• Evaluate, develop and test integrations of alternative satellite inputs in satellite-driven ET models and time-integration workflows.
• Analyze satellite data using reflectance-based and surface energy balance models to quantify ET.
• Combine satellite-driven ET models with hydrologic models to estimate the consumptive use from applied water.
• Analyze meteorological data inputs and their uncertainty and quantify the impact of gridded meteorological data errors on satellite-driven ET model accuracy.
• Author peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts, research and technical reports, and research proposals.
• Present research results and scientific findings at meetings and to partners and stakeholders.
• Foster and maintain collaborative links with local groups and individuals, including agricultural producers, water resource management agencies, research organizations, and the public.

WORK ENVIRONMENT :

Position will require work at a computer / video display terminal and desk for extended periods of time. This position also requires sitting, standing, bending, pushing, pulling, talking and using manual dexterity, eye-hand coordination. Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs. The position may include travel to off-campus / lab locations for field research for extended time periods.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

The position requires skills, knowledge, and previous experience with : multispectral and thermal infrared satellite data processing and analysis, methods to apply data fusion and quantify prediction uncertainty, evaluating ET accuracy using ground-based observations of eddy covariance data, evaluating meteorological data quality and gridded meteorological data uncertainty, the application of soil water balance models to isolate ET from irrigation, Python programming, geospatial analysis, publication of peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts, public speaking, planning and coordinating tasks remotely and in-person, and demonstrated ability to work well with a diverse team of scientists and software engineers. The candidate should have excellent verbal and written communication skills. Candidate must be capable of working in exposed agricultural settings, as well as in an interdisciplinary scientific atmosphere.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Equivalent to a Doctorate Degree in Geography, Hydrology, Earth Systems Science, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Plant and Soil Science, Agronomy, Biology, or a closely related field AND relevant scientific experience in technology and / or science industries involving sensor networks, plant biology, computing, analysis, and data processing. Previous experience with the following is also required : i) Application of multispectral and thermal infrared satellite imagery to research hydrologic, agronomic, or ecologic processes; ii) ability to program in Python and Julia to automate processing and analysis of satellite and meteorological data; iii) experience using Google Earth Engine to analyze and process satellite and climate data and generate datasets and maps; iv) experience preparing scientific manuscripts and research proposals; and v) experience with public speaking and presentation of scientific results to a variety of audiences.

Special Conditions of Employment

This position will have a duty to report to the Campus Title IX Officer information pertaining to victims of sex discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, dating / domestic violence, and stalking as required by CSU Executive Order 1095.

HOW TO APPLY :

All prospective applicants must apply online. You must complete the entire application for submission. We only accept applications for the open positions listed. Please do not fax or mail in a printed version of the electronic applications or a resume in lieu of an application. If you are having difficulty applying or need assistance, please call (831) 582-3389. All positions are open until filled. The completed online application and resume must be submitted by 5 : 00 pm PST on the priority screening date. Applications received after this date will be reviewed at the discretion of the Corporation.

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION / EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER : The Corporation is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer seeking to recruit and support a broadly diverse community of faculty and staff. We value and celebrate diversity in all its forms and strive to foster an inclusive culture built on respect that affirms inter-group relations and builds cohesion. We consider qualified applicants for employment for their anticipated contributions and without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, marital status, veteran status, or disability.

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Salary : $7,649 - $9,583