Job Summary
The Mountain Limnology Laboratory (MLL) at the Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR) at University of Colorado Boulder is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to work on a project funded by the U.S. Geological Survey Next Generation Water Observing System Program. The primary project aims to develop interpretations from a U.S. continental-scale water quality dataset of remotely sensed dissolved organic matter (DOM). The postdoc will be integrated into other ongoing projects within the MLL and will have opportunities to develop their own lines of inquiry on topics related to inland water biogeochemistry. This project provides a training opportunity for exciting data-driven research and for building a professional network that includes both academic and federal scientists. We anticipate that the scientist will gain new, international collaborators, develop new skills, and take part in professional development activities (e.g., Global Lake Ecological Observatory (GLEON) and other all hands’ meetings, relevant conferences, student mentoring, educational programs).
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Who We Are
As the University's oldest institute, INSTAAR has a long history of responding to pressing environmental issues including climate change. Our traditional focus has been on alpine, Arctic, and Antarctic regions, where effects of global change are especially pronounced. In recent decades, our research has broadened to include environmental challenges that span local, regional, and global scales. INSTAAR’s research activities integrate field studies, state-of-the-art laboratory experiments, sample analysis, and numerical and laboratory modeling. Our field sites are located across all seven continents and the world's oceans.
Our expertise across disciplines helps us generate influential science that can inform public and policy decisions and move us toward a more sustainable society. INSTAAR's national and international research leadership is augmented by exceptional strength in graduate education and bringing undergraduates into the research process.
What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be
The postdoctoral researcher will leverage 1.8 million published and analysis-ready water column dissolved organic carbon concentrations collected in inland waters (Aquasat V2), paired with Landsat surface reflectance, to build predictive models of DOM in lakes and rivers. Products will include (1) a data release of internally consistent national-scale DOM data, (2) publication of statistical and machine learning models predicting DOM concentrations at a national scale, and (3) at least one journal article documenting models and synthesizing results to inform future water quality observation programs and water resource management. Intended beneficiaries include USGS water monitoring programs, water resource decision makers, and the broader aquatic science community.
What We Can Offer
The salary range for this position is $65,000-$75,000 annually.
Benefits
At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. In fact, CU Boulder has been named one of Forbes' America's Best Large Employers, ranking #4 among large employers in Colorado and #28 among universities nationwide. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.
Be Statements
Be authentic. Be pioneering. Be Boulder.
What We Require
- PhD in Ecology, Limnology, Hydrology, Watershed Science, or a closely related field.
What You Will Need
- Passion for and experience in collaborating with a diversity of colleagues at various career stages, both remotely and in person.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
What We Would Like You to Have
- Skills in data science (such as AI/ML).
- Strong statistical background.
- Expertise in ecosystem science, limnology, biogeochemistry, hydrology, geography, or related fields.
- Passion for open science in principle and in practice.
Special Instructions
To apply, please submit the following materials as individual files:
- Cover Letter.
- Resume/CV.
- (Optional) Transcripts/Proof of Degree: If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources department using an approved online vendor. If your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit an English-translated version (if applicable) as an Optional attachment.
During the application process, you will be asked to provide the names and email addresses for two references who would be willing to provide letters of recommendation on your behalf. For candidates who reach the advanced stages of the search, we will request letters directly from references later in the search process. No letters are required at the time of application.
Please apply by November 5, 2026 for full consideration.
Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email; applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs.
In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
Posting Contact Information
Posting Contact Name: Boulder Campus Human Resources
Posting Contact Email: Recruiting@colorado.edu
