The University of Chicago’s Ice Dynamics Lab, led by Prof. Meghana Ranganathan, has an opening for a two-year postdoctoral researcher to investigate the controls on ice stream network geometry in Antarctica by applying analyses developed in fluvial geomorphology, funded by the Moore Foundation. The project will involve developing algorithms to extract flow networks from remote sensing data, apply network analyses to identify physical and climatic controls on ice stream organization, and adapt models of flow organization to further interpret physical processes shaping flow routing. Depending on progress and interest, the researcher may also investigate controls on flow geometry in the Greenland Ice Sheet and mountain glacier systems or the evolution of network geometry in time.
Eligibility: Required qualifications are: (1) a Ph.D (or anticipated completion of a Ph.D prior to the start of the position) in glaciology, climate science, geoscience, applied mathematics, physics, computational science, computer science, or a related field, (2) strong programming and statistical skills (familiarity with GIS and programming with geospatial data preferred), (3) ability to work independently and interface with a research group, (4) strong communication skills. Candidates unsure of their eligibility may inquire further.
Position Details: Starting salary for this position is 72,000 USD per year and comes with an 8,000 USD one-time research stipend to fund equipment, conference travel, etc. This position is benefits eligible. For information on benefits, please consult: https://intranet.uchicago.edu/human-resources/services/benefits/benefits-for-postdocs. This position may be eligible for a taxable moving allowance. This is a two-year position, reviewed annually based on researcher performance. Targeted start dates are July-December 2026 but with flexibility for negotiation. The position is based in Chicago, IL, USA, though flexible arrangements are negotiable. All postdoctoral researchers in the Ice Dynamics Lab receive regular mentoring in both research and overall career development from Prof. Ranganathan and will have access to a dynamic lab group; information on the group can be found at https://icedynamics.wixsite.com/uchicago.
Application Details: Interested candidates may apply by emailing the following materials to miranganathan@uchicago.edu with “Postdoctoral Position Application” as the subject line. Please include in a single PDF: (1) CV, (2) a 1 page statement detailing interest in the position, future research goals, and relevant previous research, (3) contact information for 2 references that can speak to qualifications for the position. Applications must be submitted by June 30, 2026.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination. Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-834-3988 or email equalopportunity@uchicago.edu with their request.