The School of Natural Resources (SNR) Conservation and Survey Division (CSD) at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) is seeking applications for an open rank geoscientist position. This 12-month (calendar year), non-tenure track appointment will develop a research program and educate the public on issues related to groundwater resources and the hydrogeology of Nebraska and the surrounding region. Located in Lincoln, Nebraska, the apportionment is 75% research and 25% extension.
Specific Duties
Research (75%)
- Build and maintain a successful applied research program with innovative and complimentary water related focus (https://snr.unl.edu/csd/).
- Plan and conduct basic and applied research on hydrogeology and geology.
- Generate external research grants.
- Collaborate with governmental agencies, municipalities, industry, and educational institutions.
- Develop and maintain working relationships with stakeholders to address water-related research and issues.
- Respond to inquiries by evaluating and interpreting data and applying current research understandings.
- Present findings at various venues including seminars, workshops, guest lectures, and national scientific meetings.
Extension (25%)
- Publish manuscripts and present on groundwater issues in Nebraska to the appropriate audiences.
- Educate the public and stakeholders on groundwater issues.
- Support the CSD team’s survey efforts and mission with expert interactions and reporting (Annual Groundwater levels report).
- Work in conjunction with SNR Geology, Soil, and Water Survey faculty to provide services to clientele.
Required Qualifications
- M.S in geology, hydrology, environmental sciences, or a closely related field at the time of appointment.
- A valid United States driver’s license at the time of appointment.
- Demonstrated potential to produce scientific work, including peer-reviewed manuscripts with expertise in water quality, water quantity, or modeling commensurate with career level.
- Demonstratable analytical and quantitative skills applicable to understanding groundwater issues relevant to Nebraska and the region.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills applicable to communication with a variety of stakeholders.
- Ability to engage in scientific teamwork in order to address major issues.
Preferred Qualifications
- Ph.D. in geology, hydrology, environmental sciences, or a closely related field at the time of appointment.
- Understanding of water issues such as aquifer characterization, groundwater-surface water interactions, groundwater quality and quantity in agriculture landscapes, impacts of a changing climate on groundwater systems, vadose zone processes, or emerging methods or techniques in groundwater science.
- Demonstrated experience in computational techniques, cyberinfrastructure, field methods, hydrogeophysics, or hydrogeologic mapping.
- Record of success in external funding.
Recognizing that collaboration and participation in teams enhances creativity, innovation, impact, and a sense of belonging, the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) and the School of Natural Resources Conservation and Survey Division are committed to creating learning, research, and Extension programming environments where the unique contributions of each individual are acknowledged and valued. At IANR we see every person and every interaction as important to our collective wellbeing and our ability to deliver on our mission. This position is not eligible for employment-based permanent residency sponsorship. UNL may be able to sponsor temporary work authorization (e.g., H-1B) for the successful candidate.
Application Process
Review of applications will begin June 24, 2026, and continue until the position is filled or the search is closed. To view details of the position and create an application, go to https://employment.unl.edu, requisition F_260058. Click “Apply for this Job” and then “Faculty Application.” Complete the application and attach the following documents:
1. A letter of interest that describes a) your qualifications for the job; b) anticipated contributions to research and extension; and c) a statement describing your experience working in teams or groups and your anticipated contributions to environments where every person and every interaction matters (2-page maximum). See https://go.unl.edu/ianrguide for guidance in writing this statement.
2. Your curriculum vitae.
3. Contact information for three professional references.
The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See https://equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination/.
