Postdoctoral Research Opportunity:


*Postdoctoral Research Associate at West Central Research, Extension and
Education Center (WCREEC), University of Nebraska-Lincoln*



*JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY*



We are seeking a motivated and qualified Postdoctoral Researcher to join
our team in a research project focused on the *Integration of crop models
with the 3D unsaturated and saturated zone water and solute transport model*
to analyze the impact of deficit irrigation and nitrogen management
strategies on crops, soil, and groundwater. The crop models used for
integration will be the existing process-based models for corn and soybean.
This position offers an opportunity to work on cutting-edge research in
agricultural modeling and sustainable resource management. Key
responsibilities include collaborating with a multidisciplinary team for
model integration, analyzing field data related to crop growth and
development, conducting model evaluations, performing comprehensive
modeling studies, preparing research reports and publications, and
collaborating with other researchers. Qualifications include a Ph.D. in
Soil-Crop-Groundwater Modeling, Groundwater Hydrology, Soil Science,
Agricultural Engineering, Water Resources, Environmental Engineering, or a
related field (required); expertise in source code development/modification
of soil, groundwater, or crop models; a background in soil, groundwater,
and crop modeling; proficiency in modeling software; expertise in FORTRAN
and C++; data analysis experience; communication skills; and the ability to
work both independently and as part of a research team.



*More details:*



*JOB DESCRIPTION*


*Job posted on: 10/01/2023*



*Job Title:* Postdoctoral Research Associate: Crop-Soil-Groundwater Process
Model Integration for Irrigation and Nitrogen Management Studies



*Position Overview:*

We are seeking a motivated and qualified Postdoctoral Researcher to join
our team in a research project focused on the *Integration of crop models
with the 3D unsaturated and saturated zone water and solute transport model
*to analyze the impact of deficit irrigation and nitrogen management
strategies on crops, soil, and groundwater. The crop models used for
integration will be the existing process-based models for corn and soybean.
This position offers an opportunity to work on cutting-edge research in
agricultural modeling and sustainable resource management.



*Key Responsibilities:*



1.   *Model Integration:* Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to
integrate process-based crop models with the 3D unsaturated and saturated
zone model ensuring seamless interaction between the models.

2.  *Data Analysis:* Analyze relevant field data related to crop growth and
development, yield, water, crop nitrogen uptake, and nitrogen dynamics in
the soil and groundwater for different irrigation and nitrogen application
scenarios.

3.    *Model Evaluation:* Evaluate the integrated model using measured data
to ensure accuracy and reliability in simulating real-world scenarios.

4.   *Simulation and Analysis:* Conduct comprehensive modeling studies
using the integrated model to assess the effects of deficit irrigation and
nitrogen management strategies on crop growth, development, yield, and the
dynamics of water and nitrogen in the soil and groundwater. This includes
long-term studies, assessments over larger spatial scales, including
watershed-scale assessments, analyzing the impact of climate variability,
and examining various management strategies to minimize environmental
impacts and maximize yield.

5.  *Report and Publication:* Prepare research reports, manuscripts, and
presentations for conferences and scientific journals to disseminate
research findings.

6.   *Collaboration:* Collaborate with other researchers and provide
guidance and expertise in the domain of crop-soil continuum interactions.



*Qualifications:*

-          Ph.D. in Soil-Crop-Groundwater Modeling, Groundwater Hydrology,
Soil Science, Agricultural Engineering, Water Resources, Environmental
Engineering, or a related field (required).

-          Expertise in source code development/modification of soil,
groundwater, or crop models.

-          Background in soil, groundwater, and crop modeling, including
modeling techniques and proficiency in modeling software such as MODFLOW
and crop modeling tools.

-          Expertise in FORTRAN and C++ is highly advantageous.

-          Experience with data analysis and interpretation.

-          Written and verbal communication skills.

-          Ability to work independently and as part of a research team.





*Application Process:*

-          Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by submitting the
following documents:

-          A cover letter outlining the interest and qualifications for the
position.

-          A curriculum vitae/resume.

-          Contact information for two professional references.

-          Samples of publications or relevant research work (if available).

-          Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the
position is filled. We welcome applications from diverse candidates who can
contribute to our research program. For inquiries or to submit your
application, please contact

-

*Prof. Abia Katimbo*

Assistant Professor and Irrigation Management Specialist

Abia Katimbo | BSE | Nebraska (unl.edu)
<https://bse.unl.edu/faculty/abia-katimbo>

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