Research Scientist I - Mountain Limnology Laboratory

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