Research Project Description

US Forest Service Postdoctoral Research Fellowship
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Boise, ID

FS-2013-600

Project Description:

A postdoctoral research fellowship project is available (via the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education) with the Rocky Mountain Research Station of US Forest Service Research and Development.

The fellow will develop and validate streamflow estimates from the gridded VIC data for streams on National Forest Service lands.  In addition the fellow will participate in research on stream temperature sensitivity in Pacific Northwest National Forests by applying the streamflow data.  The Fellow will engage in field projects with streamflow measurements to further validate spatial and temporal scaling of the VIC derived streamflows in mountain environments.

Under the mentorship of the program leads, the Fellow will:

• Interpolate gridded VIC model outputs to NHD+ stream reaches on National Forests Across the continental United States.
• Estimate errors for a range of metrics derived from time series at reaches with existing streamflow data.
• Develop and test potential algorithms for improvement of streamflow simulations.
• Provide modeled streamflow data for, and participate in analysis of stream temperature sensitivity to climate variations in PNW streams.
• Participate in field study to examine temporal patterns of streamflow at fine spatial scales and contrast patterns with the larger scale modeling
• Participate in other research projects related to these areas

 This position provides an opportunity to:

• Develop expertise with VIC outputs
• Develop publication record in hydrologic modeling and climate effects
• Broaden interdisciplinary knowledge, particularly in ecology and geomorphology

Qualifications:

Applicants must have received a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in hydrology or a closely related field within five years of the desired starting date.  The ideal candidate will have strong written and verbal communication skills with a demonstrated publication record and a proven ability to perform activities independently.  Experience with programming is desired.

Additional Informaton:

This appointment is full-time for one year and may be extended for up to three additional years upon the recommendation of the Forest Service and availability of funding. The annual stipend range for this position is from $47,448 up to $57,408, depending on qualifications.

Housing, transportation and relocation costs will not be paid. Taxes and other federal, state, and local deductions are the responsibility of the Fellow. There will be opportunities for some professional travel during this appointment. Health insurance is available through Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE).  If the fellow selects coverage under the ORISE policy, a supplement to the stipend may be provided to offset a portion of this expense.  The fellow does not become an employee of the Forest Service or ORISE.

How to Apply:

Interested applicants are encouraged to provide a preliminary application, consisting of a cover letter with statement of interest and goals and a resume/CV to Dr. Charles Luce (cluce@fs.fed.us; 208-373-4382).