Remote Sensing Research Professor

Description

The University of Notre Dame’s Environmental Research Center (UNDERC) and Center for Research Computing (CRC) are seeking a highly qualified and motivated Research Professor (open rank) in Remote Sensing with a strong computational background. This is a full-time research-focused position with no teaching responsibilities. The successful candidate will work collaboratively across CRC and UNDERC to conduct advanced research in remote sensing, with particular emphasis on environmental monitoring, ecological modeling, and related computational methodologies.

The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in remote sensing technologies, including but not limited to LiDAR, radar, and hyperspectral imaging data obtained via airborne- and/or satellite-based systems. They should also have a strong background in computational techniques, such as data processing, machine learning, and modeling, which will be used to analyze and interpret large remote sensing datasets. Experience with securing and managing research grants is a key aspect of this position, as the successful candidate will play a significant role in leading and contributing to externally funded research projects.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Research Leadership:

• Lead independent and collaborative research projects focused on the application of remote sensing in environmental science, including ecological modeling, vegetation and biomass analysis, and carbon storage assessments.

• Conduct high-level data analysis and provide computational solutions for remote sensing problems, including working with satellite, airborne, and ground-based sensors.

• Develop and apply algorithms for data fusion, remote sensing analytics, computer vision and related machine learning techniques in the interpretation of remote sensing data.

• Collaborate closely with faculty, researchers, and students within the CRC and UNDERC on joint research initiatives, leveraging the unique capabilities of the research centers.

2. Grant Development and Management:

• Play a leading role in securing research funding by writing proposals, coordinating with external stakeholders, and managing ongoing research projects.

• Establish and maintain collaborations with governmental agencies, industry partners, and academic institutions, particularly for research grants in the fields of remote sensing, environmental monitoring, and computational science.

• Manage and oversee budgets, timelines, and deliverables associated with research grants, ensuring that projects are executed successfully and in compliance with funding requirements.

3. Collaboration and Outreach:

• Engage in interdisciplinary research activities that integrate remote sensing with other environmental and computational sciences, such as climate modeling, sustainability, and ecosystem services.

• Contribute to the development of new research directions, techniques, and methodologies that align with the strategic goals of both CRC and UNDERC.

• Present research findings at scientific conferences, publish in high-impact journals, and contribute to the university’s reputation as a leader in remote sensing and environmental research.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in Remote Sensing, Earth Science, Environmental Science, Computational Science, or a closely related field.

• Extensive experience in applying advanced remote sensing techniques, such as LiDAR, radar, hyperspectral imaging, or satellite remote sensing, to environmental and ecological research.

• Strong computational skills, with expertise in data analysis, machine learning, modeling, and programming languages such as Python, R, MATLAB, or similar.

• Demonstrated success in obtaining and managing competitive research grants, including federal and industry funding sources.

• Proven track record of research publications in top-tier, peer-reviewed journals and significant contributions to the remote sensing and environmental science communities.

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex research concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Expertise in cloud computing and high-performance computing (HPC) environments for large-scale remote sensing data analysis.

• Experience working in multidisciplinary teams with researchers from diverse scientific backgrounds, such as ecology, geography, and climate science.

• Familiarity with the use of remote sensing data for environmental conservation, ecosystem monitoring, and climate change research.

Application Instructions

Application Instructions: Interested applicants should submit the following:

1. A cover letter describing their research background, expertise in remote sensing, and their experience with research grants.

2. A detailed CV, including a list of publications, grants, and research collaborations.

3. Contact information for at least three references.

About Notre Dame and the Research Centers: The University of Notre Dame is a prestigious private institution located in Notre Dame, Indiana. The Center for Research Computing (CRC) provides comprehensive computational resources and expertise to support cutting-edge research in various disciplines, including remote sensing and environmental studies. The University Notre Dame Environmental Research Center (UNDERC) is dedicated to advancing environmental research, focusing on areas such as ecological conservation, biodiversity, and climate change. The UNDERC site is also a part of the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON), which collects large quantities of airborne LiDAR and hyperspectral data of UNDERC and other NEON sites in the country. Both centers offer an outstanding interdisciplinary environment for researchers to develop and implement innovative research initiatives.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff and administration.  The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and is committed to building a culturally diverse workplace.  We strongly encourage applications from female and minority candidates and those candidates attracted to a university with a Catholic identity.  Moreover, Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled qualified individuals, and requires affirmative action by covered contractors to employ and advance veterans and qualified individuals with disabilities in compliance with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a).

Background Check 

This appointment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.  Applicants will be asked to identify all felony convictions and/or pending felony charges.  Felony convictions do not automatically bar an individual from employment.  Each case will be examined separately to determine the appropriateness of employment in the particular position.  Failure to be forthcoming or dishonesty with respect to felony disclosures can result in the disqualification of a candidate.  The full procedure can be viewed at https://facultyhandbook.nd.edu/?id=link-73597.