| Postdoctoral Research Associate I (Maricopa, AZ) |
| Posting Number |
req25891 |
| Department |
Biosystems Engineering-Res |
| Department Website Link |
https://be.arizona.edu/extension |
| Location |
Maricopa |
| Address |
37860 W Smith Enke Rd, Maricopa, AZ 85138 USA |
| Position Highlights |
The postdoctoral position focuses on data-driven analysis and prediction of crop evapotranspiration using Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. The role integrates multi-source datasets, including remote sensing, climate variables, and field-collected plant and soil data, to develop predictive ET models. The candidate will apply expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), environmental modeling, and data analytics to assess spatial and temporal ET variability. Knowledge in Environmental Engineering and Hydrogeophysics will support modeling of soil-water-plant interactions under varying environmental conditions. The postdoc will assist with field data collection for model validation and experimental support. Responsibilities include advanced data analysis, model development, and publication of results in peer-reviewed and extension journals.
Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more! The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here. |
| Duties & Responsibilities |
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Develop and apply Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence models to predict crop evapotranspiration (ET) using multi-source environmental datasets.
- Integrate and analyze remote sensing, climate variables, and field-collected plant and soil data to support accurate ET modeling.
- Utilize GIS and environmental modeling to assess spatial and temporal variability in ET and soil-water-plant interactions.
- Support irrigation research through field data collection, data quality control, and model calibration and validation.
- Conduct advanced data analysis and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams while preparing publications, technical reports, and presentations.
|
| Minimum Qualifications |
- Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering, Geophysics, Hydrology, Biosystems Engineering, Data Science, or a closely related field.
- Must have a valid driver's license and ability to drive according to
the University Fleet Safety Policy.
|
| Preferred Qualifications |
- Strong expertise in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence for environmental data analysis and predictive modeling.
- Experience with remote sensing data processing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), including handling large multi-source datasets.
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, or MATLAB for data analysis and model development.
- Demonstrated research productivity, including publications related to AI applications for evapotranspiration (ET), particularly in arid and semi-arid environments, along with good communication and interdisciplinary collaboration skills.
|
| FLSA |
Exempt |
| Full Time/Part Time |
Full Time |
| Number of Hours Worked per Week |
40 |
| Job FTE |
1.0 |
| Work Calendar |
Fiscal |
| Job Category |
Research |
| Benefits Eligible |
Yes - Full Benefits |
| Rate of Pay |
NIH salary guidelines, Depends on Experience |
| Compensation Type |
salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE) |
| Type of criminal background check required: |
Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive) |
| Number of Vacancies |
1 |
| Target Hire Date |
7/6/2026 |
| Expected End Date |
7/5/2027 |
| Contact Information for Candidates |
Dr. Diaa Elshikha
diaaelshikha@arizona.edu |
| Open Date |
5/5/2026 |
| Open Until Filled |
Yes |
| Documents Needed to Apply |
Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Cover Letter |
| Special Instructions to Applicant |
|
| Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report |
In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University's campuses.Thesereports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu. |
University of Arizona
life insurance, sick time
May 06, 2026