Research Fellow in Machine Learning for Environmental Modelling

Advance Your Research Career: Postdoctoral Researcher in Glacial Lake Modelling at the University of Leeds

Are you a driven researcher with a passion for machine learning and a desire to make a tangible impact on disaster risk reduction? The University of Leeds, a distinguished leader in UK research, presents an exceptional opportunity for a Postdoctoral Researcher to contribute to a groundbreaking project focused on the critical area of glacial lake evolution in High Mountain Asia.

This role is a pivotal part of the UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship project, "Glacial Lake Observatory for Flood Hazards Impacted by Changing Climate (GLO-FHICC)," led by Dr. C. Scott Watson. As our planet's climate shifts, the formation of thousands of glacial lakes presents growing challenges, particularly in remote and logistically complex high-altitude regions where observation data is scarce. This project aims to revolutionize our understanding of these phenomena, enhancing disaster preparedness and refining projections of glacier behaviour.

Key Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Cutting-Edge Research: Immerse yourself in a high-impact project utilizing advanced deep learning techniques to analyze multibeam sonar data, topographic information, and environmental variables. You will be at the forefront of developing innovative methods for quantifying glacial lake morphology and evolutionary trajectories.
• Significant Career Development: This position offers invaluable opportunities for professional growth. You will have the chance to present your research at prestigious national and international conferences, a crucial step in building your academic profile. Furthermore, the University of Leeds is committed to your development, providing funded training opportunities tailored to your specific career aspirations.
• Contribution to a Vital Cause: Your work will directly contribute to improving disaster preparedness and mitigating the impacts of climate change-induced hazards. This role offers a profound sense of purpose and the ability to contribute to global safety and environmental understanding.
• Collaborative and Supportive Environment: You will work closely with Dr. C. Scott Watson and Dr. Lauren Rawlins, alongside a dedicated team of project staff, students, and researchers within a highly respected Faculty. This collaborative setting fosters a rich learning and research environment.
• Build an Open-Access Resource: Play a key role in establishing and expanding the Glacial Lake Observatory, a vital open-access platform that will benefit the global research community.
• Refine Essential Modelling Techniques: Contribute to enhancing digital elevation models (DEMs) and advancing flood hazard modelling in challenging mountainous terrains, developing skills highly sought after in geosciences and environmental science.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Academic Foundation: Ideal candidates will hold, or be close to obtaining, a PhD in a relevant field such as deep learning, computational geosciences, computer sciences, mathematics, or physics. Demonstrated experience in developing and applying deep learning models is essential.
• Research Independence and Collaboration: The role requires a balance of independent research, including generating original ideas and problem-solving, alongside strong collaborative skills to work effectively within a team and with project partners.
• Dissemination and Knowledge Transfer: A significant aspect of the role involves preparing high-quality papers and datasets for publication in leading international journals and engaging in knowledge-transfer activities.
• Mentorship and Research Culture: Opportunities exist to contribute to the vibrant research culture of the School, including mentoring undergraduate and postgraduate students, which can further develop your leadership and communication skills.
• Location and Flexibility: The University of Leeds is a campus-based community, and regular interaction is expected. However, the University is open to discussing flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.
• Commitment to Inclusivity: The University of Leeds is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from Black, Asian, minority ethnic communities; those who identify as LGBT+; and disabled people. Selection will always be based on merit and ability.

This postdoctoral researcher position at the University of Leeds offers a unique chance to contribute to vital research, advance your career in a supportive and dynamic academic setting, and make a real-world impact. If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding role at the intersection of machine learning, geosciences, and climate change adaptation, we encourage you to explore this exciting opportunity further.