Jobs in Geoscience : Earthworks : Postdoctoral Researcher in Hydrogeophysics - La Serena, Chile - Centre for Advanced Studies in Arid Zones (CEAZA)

The CEAZA is a public research institute dedicated to the development of science and technology in the arid and semi-arid zones of Northern-Central Chile. The successful candidate will join the Geosciences Group, which is currently conducting several projects on groundwater resources and high-mountain hydrology.

Location: La Serena, Chile
Application deadline: Open until the position is filled

Job description

The Centre for Advanced Studies in Arid Zones (CEAZA), located in La Serena, Chile, is looking for a postdoctoral researcher in fractured rock hydrogeology.

Role

The postdoctoral researcher will be in charge of developing knowledge and tools to assess groundwater resources in fractured rock aquifers in the Andean context. Currently little developed in Chile, groundwater resources occurring in fractured rocks may provide a well-needed additional source of water in a country impacted by water scarcity. Specific objectives are:

To characterize the hydrogeology of a pilot site in the Coquimbo region using state-of-the-art methods;
To develop a modelling framework for predicting groundwater resources on the long term at the pilot site.

A major focus will be given to the replicability of the proposed methods to other areas of the Andes. The final objective is to deliver a generic methodology for characterizing and managing fractured rock aquifers in Chile. Additionally, the postdoctoral researcher will be expected to contribute to writing project reports and to communicate the scientific results to the research community (through publication in peer-reviewed journals and conferences) and local stakeholders.

Qualification and experience

Required:

Ph.D. in Earth Sciences, Environmental Engineering or Civil Engineering with a focus on Hydrogeology;
Experience in research, demonstrated by a track record of publications in relevant journals and/or participation in research projects;
Ability to lead a project;
Ability to work in a team.

Desirable:

Experience in studying fractured rock aquifers;
Experience in designing and conducting field surveys, including the acquisition, processing and interpretation of hydraulic, chemical and geophysical data;
Experience in physically-based modeling;
Experience in communicating research outputs to local stakeholders (e.g., water resource managers and general public);
Basic level of Spanish (communication skills).

Practical details

The appointment is for 2 years, with a possible extension to be decided on the basis of performance and project advancement;
The starting date should be between 1 April and 1 June 2021;
The raw salary is 1,700,000 Chilean pesos per month;
Foreign candidates will apply for a working visa at their own expense;
No relocation fund is available.

How to apply

The application should be submitted in English and should contain:

A cover letter addressing the points described above under "Qualification and experience";
A research statement describing research experience and vision for this position;
A Curriculum Vitae including publication list and other relevant information as deemed by the candidate;
Copies of educational certificates;
Names and contact details (e-mail and telephone number) of 2-3 referees, indicating the relation to the candidate.

Applications should be sent to Dr Etienne Bresciani (etienne.bresciani@ceaza.cl) before 8 March 2021. For more information, please do not hesitate to contact Dr Etienne Bresciani at the same e-mail address.

Postdoctoral Researcher in Fractured Rock Hydrogeology