Postdoctoral Position — Poromechanical Modeling of Gulf Coast Aquifers
We are recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to work on a project addressing major uncertainties in Gulf Coast sea-level rise projections. The position focuses on vertical land motion (VLM) and its role in relative sea-level change, with an emphasis on poromechanical modeling of subsurface compaction driven by groundwater and hydrocarbon extraction, sediment loading, and glacial isostatic adjustment.
The project integrates geodetic observations with forward models of compaction and rebound to produce high-resolution subsidence datasets across the Gulf Coast. These physical estimates will be combined with climate-model large ensembles capturing short-term hydroclimate variability — including El Niño-Southern Oscillation and decadal atmospheric patterns — to develop improved probabilistic sea-level rise projections that account for both geophysical and human drivers. Results will be incorporated into the Framework for Assessing Changes to Sea-Level (FACTS) platform and paired with interactive visualization tools to support community adaptation planning.
A secondary component of the project links physical projections to a dynamic vulnerability index, using data on infrastructure abandonment, population migration, and housing trends to assess how Gulf Coast communities may respond to compounding sea-level and flooding stressors.
Required Qualifications
Ideal Qualifications
The initial appointment is for 2 years, with the possibility of extension subject to funding availability. Start date is flexible.
To apply, please send a CV, a brief statement of research interests, and contact information for two references to ah301@rice.edu.