Physical Hydrogeologist (Geohydrology Program)

The Kansas Geological Survey (KGS) at the University of Kansas (KU) is seeking a physical hydrogeologist to develop and lead a research program of international stature using both traditional and cutting-edge aquifer characterization and assessment techniques to investigate groundwater resource questions of relevance to Kansas. Specific areas of research expertise may include, but are not limited to: analysis and interpretation of aquifer responses to anthropogenic and natural stresses, hydrogeophysics, and geostatistics. While these are areas of potential focus, demonstrated research excellence and future research potential are more important than the candidate’s specific area of specialization in physical hydrogeology.

Scientists at the KGS are state-funded, faculty-equivalent academic staff with sabbatical eligibility. Scientific staff are expected to develop research programs that are of international stature and highly relevant to Kansas, as outlined in the KGS promotion procedures. Scientific staff also can teach and serve as advisors of graduate research, and typically have courtesy appointments with one or more academic departments. We anticipate hiring at the Assistant or Associate Scientist level, depending on qualifications.

About the KGS and KU:
The KGS is a research and service center at KU that conducts fundamental and applied research significant to Kansas. Within the KGS, the Geohydrology program conducts research on hydrologic and hydrogeochemical systems ranging in scale from site-specific to river basin and regional aquifers. The Geohydrology program has ~30 individuals including seven full-time scientists, technical support personnel, graduate students, and postdocs. Current areas of research include: physical, stratigraphic, and geochemical characterization of sedimentary aquifer systems; surface-water/groundwater interactions; solute fate & transport in river networks; spatial data analysis/geostatistics; assessment of sustainable yields in complex hydrologic systems; simulation of flow and transport processes; technology for subsurface characterization; quantifying impacts of withdrawals and conservation strategies on water resources; and human-water interactions. The group maintains a program of public information and education and has extensive interactions with water research and management entities at the local, state, and federal levels. Section staff have been nationally recognized for their excellence in research and for the quality of their technical reviews.

The KGS is located on the KU campus amidst the rolling hills of Lawrence, Kansas. KU is an international, R1 research university, a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), and the flagship university for the state of Kansas. KU has a large water and environmental research community spread across campus with many opportunities for collaboration. Lawrence is an eclectic town of ~100,000 people along the banks of the beautiful Kansas River with an excellent cultural scene, historic downtown, cutting-edge library, farmers market, and many delicious restaurants. Outdoor opportunities around town including biking, hiking, and boating. The big-city vibes and international airport of Kansas City are less than an hour away.

KU’s excellence is a result of the rich tapestry of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds of our faculty, staff, students, and colleagues from across our nation and the globe. At KU, we invest in continuous learning and growth by creating a climate where people engage in respectful dialogue and debate, and support each other’s success. We foster a culture of care where each person is seen, heard and valued. When people feel a true sense of belonging, we believe they are better able to reach their full potential and achieve remarkable things. The successful candidate must be eligible to work in the U.S. by the effective date of the appointment.

85% - Research
Develop and lead a research program with an emphasis on regional- and field-scale aquifer characterization and groundwater resource assessment. Conduct fundamental and applied research that is both of international stature and highly relevant to Kansas. Collaborate with your division leadership and team members to advance strategic programs at the Kansas Geological Survey. Communicate the results of research in peer-reviewed publications and to both scientific and lay audiences. Develop research proposals for external funding.

15% - Service
Serve the institution, university, and discipline through activities such as: supporting KGS efforts in the areas of technical service and communication and public information; interacting with public, university, government, and industry; serving as peer reviewers and editors of technical journals; participating in professional scientific and industrial organizations; serving on University and KGS committees as assigned or in response to opportunities; participating in professional and governmental organizations that deal with Kansas and US water resources; working with students and visiting scientists when it complements and enhances research programs.

Required and preferred qualifications for the Assistant and Associate Scientist ranks are listed separately below. In your application, please indicate which rank you are applying to and, in your cover letter, clearly address how you meet the qualifications for that rank.

Required Qualifications - For Appointment at Assistant Scientist:

1. Ph.D. degree in earth sciences or engineering with a focus on physical aquifer characterization and/or groundwater resource assessment. Degree must be completed prior to appointment start date.
2. Demonstrated knowledge in theoretical principles of physical hydrogeology as evidenced in application materials.
3. Demonstrated knowledge of a variety of hydrogeological field methods as demonstrated in application materials.
4. Experience with collaborative research in hydrogeology.
5. Excellent written and oral communication skills, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications and presentations.

Required Qualifications - For Appointment at Associate Scientist:

1. Ph.D. degree in earth sciences or engineering with a focus on physical aquifer characterization and/or groundwater resource assessment with at least six years of experience in these areas in a faculty-equivalent position.
2. Demonstrated knowledge in theoretical principles of physical hydrogeology as evidenced in application materials.
3. Demonstrated experience with a variety of hydrogeological field methods.
4. Six years of experience leading collaborative research in hydrogeology.
5. Excellent written and oral communication skills, evidenced by an established record of peer-reviewed publications and presentations.

Preferred Qualifications - For Appointment at Assistant Scientist:

1. Extensive experience with hydrogeological field methods as evidenced in application materials.
2. Demonstrated knowledge of the variety of disciplines and methods used in physical hydrogeological research as demonstrated in application materials.
3. Experience with groundwater resource assessment in heavily stressed aquifers.
4. Experience interacting with stakeholders such as water managers, state agencies, NGOs, or the public.

Preferred Qualifications - For Appointment at Associate Scientist:

1. Demonstrated experience developing advanced hydrogeological field methods as evidenced in application materials.
2. Demonstrated experience on projects involving integration of information from a variety of disciplines and methods used in physical hydrogeological research.
3. Six years of experience with groundwater resource assessment in heavily stressed aquifers.
4. Six years of experience interacting with stakeholders such as water managers, state agencies, NGOs, or the public.

For additional information contact Geoff Bohling, gbohling@ku.edu.
For HR questions contact Annette Delaney, adelaney@ku.edu, 785-864-2152.

Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Monday December 16, 2024

Monday August 18, 2025