University of Tennessee System

Post-Doctoral Research Associate: Department of Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences - UTK

University of Tennessee System  •  $55k - $60k/yr  •  Knoxville, TN (Onsite)  •  1 day ago
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Job Description

The computational hydrology lab at The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK), Department of Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences (EEPS) is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join the lab in the spring of 2027. The postdoc will conduct independent research on the general topic of Hydrogeologic and geomorphologic changes, and interplays between them, in various settings – from headwaters to coasts. In addition, the postdoc will mentor graduate and undergraduate students in the lab, as well as develop proposals for funding for future research. The desired start date for this position is January 1st 2027, but there is some flexibility.

The work will be done under the supervision of the lab PI, Dr. Anner Paldor. The successful candidate will have research experience in Hydrogeology and Geomorphology. Candidates who are currently completing their PhD, with expected graduation by the end of Fall 2026, are encouraged to apply. The desired skills for this position are:

  • Remote sensing applications in hydrology and geomorphology
  • Programming and Machine Learning algorithms for big-data analysis
  • Process-based modeling experience with tools such as HydroGeoSphere, MODFLOW, FEFLOW, DELFT3D, or others.
  • Research experience deeply connected to hydrological applications (fieldwork experience is optional)
  • Strong publication record (commensurate with stage) in relevant journals
  • Conduct research in the realm of hydrogeology, with particular emphasis on interactions with geomorphology
  • Mentor students in the lab in collaboration with the PI
  • Apply for external grants to secure funding for future work
  • Participate in group and departmental activities and contribute to the culture, including weekly seminars, group meetings, special events, and more.
  • (Optional): Co-teach with the PI to gain crucial experience in the academic environment

Required Qualifications

  • Education: PhD in hydrology, geomorphology, or a related field
  • Experience: Record of publication (commensurate with career stage)
  • Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Remote sensing, hydrological modeling

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience: Grant writing
  • Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Fieldwork, academic teaching

Work Location

  • The work will be primarily conducted on campus at The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (in Strong Hall). The selected candidate will be expected to reside in Knoxville and participate in person in departmental and lab activities such as seminars, group meetings, special events and more. Working remotely part of the time is acceptable.

Compensation and Benefits

  • Anticipated hiring range: $55,000 - $60,000
  • Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions

For best consideration, applicants should submit the below materials before 9/15/2026

  • Full CV including list of publications and conference presentations
  • A brief (<250 words) statement of research vision for this specific position, outlining the first project the candidate would like to take on

About The Department

The Department of Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences (EEPS) is home to a multi-disciplinary group of faculty, spanning four main pillars: Geology, Paleontology, Planetary, and Environmental Sciences. The culture in the department emphasizes collaborations and communications among researchers across these four pillars. Postdoctoral researchers are given departmental support in their career planning and professional development, through a structured program for postdoctoral support. This includes regular meetings with faculty beyond their advisor, opportunities to present seminars toward their job applications, mentorship on the academic job, and more.

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees—the Volunteers—who uphold the university’s tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service.

UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee’s flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy’s largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.

UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone.

The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as “Best Employer for New Graduates,” “One of America’s Best Large Employers,” and “Best Workplace for Women,” and has been designated as “Best Place for Working Parents” by Forbes Magazine.

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!

University of Tennessee System

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