Research Associate-Fixed Term

Position Summary

The Institute of Water Research is seeking a qualified research associate to model and investigate water and agrochemical transport at the field and regional scales. The selected candidate will create a high-resolution integrated surface and groundwater model capable of measuring recharge and nutrient transport from individual fields to groundwater systems. Sub-objectives include 1) integration of the Regional Crop Model with the Integrated Surface and Groundwater Model and 2) validation of the model’s flow and nutrient transport from fields to groundwater against monitoring data from the Multi-commodity Cooperative Growers’ fields and wells. Candidates with strong and demonstrable programming language skills (e.g., Fortran, Python, SQL) are highly desirable. 

Initial appointment is for one year from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension for up to two years, contingent upon funding availability and satisfactory performance. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Civil/Biological Engineering

Minimum Requirements

• Doctorate - Ph.D. Degree in Civil/Biological Engineering
• Greater than one year of relevant and progressively responsible experience in hydrological modeling (e.g., SWAT and MODFLOW) procedures and performing analytical and research techniques in an area related to the research being performed
• Excellent communication skills and fluent in English

Desired Qualifications

• Experience in  SWAT and MODFLOW models.

Required Application Materials

Please submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and names and contact information for at least three references.

Special Instructions

For questions, please contact iwr@msu.edu. Applicants must submit their application through the MSU Careers portal.

Review of Applications Begins On

06/04/2025

Website

https://www.canr.msu.edu/iwr/

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.