Postdoctoral Scholar in Sociohydrology

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral scholar for a two-year position to lead research on the socio-geopolitical aspects of ensuring a secure water future in the American West. The successful candidate will have a strong background in social science (anthropology, geography, political science, sociology, or a related field), and an understanding of agricultural systems, natural resources management, environmental science, water systems, and adoption of technology. Experience with western US water law, contemporary water management, and climate change adaption and the effects of climate change on water resources will be helpful, as the scholar will explore the emerging discipline of sociohydrology. The successful candidate will work with multiple kinds of data from large quantitative reanalysis and distributed qualitative surveys to qualitative focus groups; experience in mixed methods analysis and responsible conduct of research practice is necessary. The incumbent will work across diverse research teams to serve project audiences, including but not limited to CA, NM, and UT-based growers, water managers, natural resource managers, Extension clientele, residents, and students.

This position is part of multiple funded research projects, including the recently commissioned California Drought Impacts study, the USDA NIFA SAS Securing a Climate Resilient Water Future for Agriculture and Ecosystems through Innovation in Measurement, Management, and Markets (SecureWaterFuture.net), and the USDA NIFA AI Institute for Transforming Workforce and Decision Support (AgAID.org). As such, the successful candidate will work with a diverse team of leading scientists at UC Merced, and their collaborators in California (UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UC Agriculture & Natural Resources, Public Policy Institute of California, and Environmental Defense Fund), Utah State University, New Mexico State University, New Mexico Water Resources Research Institute, and Washington State University, as well as the regional USDA Climate Hubs and additional partners.

Responsibilities of the position will include conducting original research that integrates social, economic, technical, and environmental aspects of water management. This will require the ability to survey human subjects with confidentiality, use data analysis software collaboratively, and publish findings in high-quality journals and outreach publications. The successful candidate will be expected to work closely with community advisors from various backgrounds, including community leaders, policymakers, technical experts, and representatives of tribal governments. The scholar will join a team using data science to advance translational outcomes for improved decision-making in water management throughout the American West. Additionally, they should have experience conducting interdisciplinary research, a proven track record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals, and a commitment to addressing social and environmental justice issues. The successful candidate should be able to work with community members from diverse backgrounds, including those who are traditionally underrepresented in decision-making processes.

The scholar will be expected to lead development of several studies in collaboration with an interdisciplinary team of researchers, mentor undergraduate and graduate students, and undertake professional development activities in consultation with the PIs to further their own training and career advancement. Limited supervisory activities are required, as the scholars will coordinate Student Assistants and junior staff as needed. Occasional travel will be required to visit collaborating organizations and to team meetings. Best practices in data management, as well as in team science, are expected.

If you are passionate about ensuring a secure water future for the American West, have a commitment to working with diverse communities, and can address complex social and environmental issues, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. You will grow a large network of researchers and collaborators while participating in novel training opportunities and transformational research.

As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program Policy: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/5000695/SARS-CoV-2_Covid-19 . All Covered Individuals under the policy must provide proof of Full Vaccination or, if applicable, submit a request for Exception (based on Medical Exemption, Disability, and/or Religious Objection) or Deferral (based on pregnancy) no later than the applicable deadline. New University of California employees should refer to Appendix F, Section II.C. of the policy for applicable deadlines. (Capitalized terms in this paragraph are defined in the policy.) Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.