Available Positions
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Assistant/Associate Professor of Emerging Contaminants Transport and Fate Engineer in Water Systems
Background Information:
This is a 9-month tenure-accruing position that will be 40% teaching (College of Agricultural and Life Sciences) and 60% research (Florida Agricultural Experiment Station), available in the Agricultural and Biological Engineering Department, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, at the University of Florida. This assignment may change in accordance with the needs of the unit. Duties will include developing and teaching courses, contributing to the biosystems modeling certificate, mentoring graduate students, leading a research program, contributing service to the profession and community, and collaborating with others at UF and externally. Tenure will accrue in the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering. The faculty member will seek contract and grant funding actively to support their program. The faculty member will engage in Extension activities in their program area.
Florida’s agricultural, natural and urban ecosystems are being negatively impacted by the increasing amount and complexity of contaminants in its land and water resources. These conventional (e.g., toxic algae, nutrients, pesticides) and emerging (microplastics, nanomaterials, pharmaceuticals and personal care products, etc.) contaminants reduce the health and diversity of biological systems. The faculty member will develop solutions for characterizing, monitoring, predicting, and mitigating harmful contaminants to protect and sustain the agriculture and natural resources of the State of Florida.
Proven expertise and research products in contaminant (physio-)chemistry, fluid dynamics, solute and particle transport, and systems modeling are required.
The successful candidate will engage in scholarly activities related to instruction, including teaching undergraduate and/or graduate courses, advising and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students, participating in curriculum revision and enhancement, seeking funding for the teaching program, supervising undergraduate and graduate research and creative work, publishing teaching-related scholarship, producing learning tools, and engaging in professional development activities related to teaching and advising. Faculty are encouraged to support and participate in the CALS Honors Program, distance education, and international education.
Because of the IFAS land-grant mission, all faculty are expected to be supportive of and engaged in all three mission areas -- Research, Teaching and Extension -- regardless of the assignment split specified in the position description.
Required Qualifications:
- A doctorate (foreign equivalent acceptable) in agricultural, biological, environmental, or chemical engineering or a closely related discipline is required.
- Candidates should have demonstrated skills in verbal and written communication, interpersonal relationships, and procurement of extramural funding.
- Candidates are expected to show potential and interest in teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in the Agricultural and Biological Engineering department.
- Candidates must be supportive of the mission of the Land-Grant system. Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values of excellence, discovery & innovation, inclusion, freedom & civility, community, and stewardship.
- Candidates must have evidence of experience in modeling applications and laboratory experimentation related to the expertise of this position description.
How to Apply:
- For more information and to apply online, visit Careers at UF.
- Download Position Description (PDF)
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Post Doctoral Research Associate: Hydrologic and Nutrient Transport Modeling in Vadose Zone (SWFREC)
Background Information:
Agricultural and Biological Engineering (ABE) Department and Southwest Florida Research and Education Center, University of Florida (UF), seeks a post-doctoral associate for hydrologic and nutrient transport modeling in vadose zone. The post-doc will develop and use hydrologic model(s) and contribute to developing a decision support system (DSS) for multi-disciplinary projects on developing and evaluating water and nutrient best management practices (BMPs) under different groundwater environments.
The post-doc will help collect and use the soil, water, and plant data from multiple sites to develop models for predicting subsurface water and nutrient transport in well-drained and poorly-drained soils in agricultural fields. The project takes a systems approach and involves conducting experiments on high-value fresh market crops under different nutrient inputs, irrigation and drainage, hydrologic, and weather conditions.
The post-doc will work with a team of post-docs, graduate students, and faculty to integrate water and nutrient loss predictions with plant, soil, water, and economic data to develop a DSS for nutrient and water management. The project team includes faculty drawn from engineering, hydrology, statistics, economics, plant, soil, and ecosystem sciences.
Qualifications:
Applicants must have Ph.D. in agricultural/biological/civil/environmental engineering, soil and water sciences, or related physical sciences. Applicants are expected to have strong background in vadose zone models (e.g. HYDRUS) and nutrient transport processes. Background in irrigation management for agricultural systems and machine learning models is a plus.
Employment:
The position is available immediately with initial appointment for one year and is likely to be renewable depending on funding and performance. Salary will be commensurate with education and experience and is likely to range from $50,000- $62,000/year.
How To Apply:
Send a resume and the names of three references to Dr Sanjay Shukla, Professor, Water Resources, Agricultural and Biological Engineering ( sshukla@ufl.edu ) and Ms Becky Decker ( rdecker54@ufl.edu ). The screening of candidates will begin July 24th, 2023.
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Post Doctoral Research Associate: Foundation for Food and Agricultural Research (FFAR)
Background Information:
The Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering at the University of Florida invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position as part of the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) project titled “Integrated Food Waste Measurement and Predictions Supported by Agent-Based Models (IFWASTE)”
The successful candidate will be at the forefront of applying advanced modeling and simulation tools, with a particular focus on agent-based modeling, to the assessment of food loss and waste at the household level. This project is aimed at building and refining advanced simulations to assess the multifaceted complexities of food loss and waste systems. The hired postdoctoral researcher will work in an interdisciplinary team of engineers, social scientists, implementation partners such as City of Gainesville, Alachua County, and Sarasota Extension office and help coordinate the project efforts.
Qualifications:
PhD in Systems Science, Computer Science, Agricultural and Biological Engineering, Environmental Science and Engineering, Economics, or a closely related field; Expertise in agent-based modeling and advanced simulation tools; Experience in analyzing complex systems, with a preference for research related to food loss and waste; Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Java, or R; Interest and expertise in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science is a plus; Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to publish research findings; Ability to work in a collaborative research environment and coordinate the project teams and ensure the milestones are met
Employment:
This is a full-time, grant-funded, 18-month position with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. Salary is competitive and includes a benefits package.
How To Apply:
Interested applicants should submit a cover letter detailing their research interests and experience, a CV, and contact information for three references to ziynetboz@ufl.edu
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Post Doctoral Research Associate: Smart Agriculture Laboratory
Background Information:
We are in search of a talented and passionate individual to join us as a Postdoctoral Research Associate. As part of our team, you will play a pivotal role in developing the cutting-edge robotics system for specialty crops that will shape the future of farming.
Under the guidance of Dr. Dana Choi, you will immerse yourself in advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and digital twin technologies. Your primary focus will be on the development of robotic mushroom harvester and strawberry runner cutter. You will have the opportunity to contribute to other exciting projects, write grant proposals with Dr. Dana Choi, and mentor Ph.D. students in the lab.
Qualifications:
Ph.D. degree in Agricultural and Biological/Mechanical/Computer/Electrical Engineering or a closely related discipline; Fluency in the Robot Operating System (ROS) and Python programming; Experience in CAD modeling and machine/electrical circuit fabrication; Excellent verbal and written communication skills to share your visionary ideas and groundbreaking discoveries with the world.
How To Apply:
To apply, please send the following documents to Dana Choi at dana.choi@ufl.edu :
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) capturing your extraordinary journey so far.
- Unofficial academic transcripts reflecting your dedication to academic excellence.
- Any representative publications showcasing the brilliance of your work in the field, highlighting your contributions.
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Assistant Professor of Agricultural Water Management - Everglades Research and Education Center
This is a 9-month tenure-accruing position that will be 70% research (Florida Agricultural Experiment Station) and 30% extension (Florida Cooperative Extension Service), available at the Everglades Research and Education Center (EREC) within the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. Tenure will accrue either in the Department of Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences OR the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering.
The incumbent is expected to develop a program with a major focus on water resources and water quality in the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) and adjacent areas in south Florida. The EAA and adjacent areas have organic, sand, and transitional soils and comprise one of the nation’s largest suppliers of winter vegetables, while also boasting the largest sugarcane and sweet corn production in the country and significant rice acreage. The incumbent will develop a nationally recognized extramurally funded research and extension program focused on efficient irrigation and drainage systems balancing water resources, water quality and agricultural production with local and global applications in the context of complex hydrological systems and climate change. The candidate is expected to provide research and outreach leadership to 1) further hydrologic knowledge of agricultural systems such as irrigation, subsurface drainage and water table management using the latest technologies, innovations, AI machine learning modeling and data science applications; 2) develop, test and evaluate soil and water management practices that provide erosion and sediment control, and 3) reduce and mitigate the impact of agricultural water management decisions and other production practices on phosphorus nutrient transport as part of an established comprehensive Best Management Practices (BMP) program in the EAA.
- For more information and to apply online, visit Careers at UF.
- Download Position Description (.docx)
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Graduate Research Assistantship (Ph.D. Level) - Agricultural Robotics and AI
Background Information:
The Bio-Sensing Automation and Intelligence Laboratory (B-SAIL) (www.uflbsail.net) in the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering at the University of Florida is seeking highly motivated graduate students for Ph.D.-level research assistantships (RA) in agricultural sensing, automation, and AI. We are currently accepting applications for these positions, which will be reviewed on an ongoing basis.
Qualifications:
Successful candidates should have relevant experiences and interests in one or more of the following areas: computer vision, mechatronics, robotics, electronics, sensing, and machine learning/deep learning. Additionally, candidates should possess strong programming skills in one or more of the following languages: Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW, C/C++, Java, and IDL. A proven ability to publish research in peer-reviewed journals and a willingness to learn new technologies is also desirable.
How to Apply: Interested applicants should send their curriculum vitae, a list of three references, and transcripts to Dr. Changying “Charlie” Li at cli2@ufl.edu.
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Graduate Research Assistantship (Ph.D. Level) - Artificial Intelligence & Robotics
Background Information:
Applications are solicited for a Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) position (Ph.D. level) in the Agricultural and Biological Engineering Department at the University of Florida under the supervision of Dr. Henry Medeiros. The candidate should be interested in working in the fields of artificial intelligence and robotics applied to agricultural problems. Potential research focus includes but is not limited to agricultural automation using ground and aerial robotic platforms, high throughput plant modeling and phenotyping, large scale scene reconstruction and interpretation. The successful candidate should be self-motivated, creative, and have a desire to collaborate in a multidisciplinary environment. The candidate will be expected to publish in peer-reviewed journals and conference publications. The assistantship will cover stipends, tuition, and fee. Review of applications will begin immediately until the position is filled.
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Agricultural and Biological Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field with a GPA of 3.0 or higher; Strong English writing and oral communication skills; Non-English credentials must obtain a TOEFL score of 80 iBT or IELTS score of 6.0 or higher; Demonstrated programming proficiency in Python or other object-oriented programming language; Solid knowledge of linear algebra and probability theory.
Preferred Qualifications:
Knowledge and experience in the development of robotic and machine learning systems; Familiarity with modern machine learning models and Bayesian estimation methods; Experience with tools and libraries used for the development of robotic systems (e.g., ROS) and machine learning algorithms (e.g., Pytorch, Tensorflow, etc.); Record of previous scientific communications (journal articles or/and conference publications); Experience and willingness to collect data and perform experiments in the field.
How to Apply: Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr. Henry Medeiros (hmedeiros@ufl.edu) directly with a copy of your CV and research statement. In addition, students should apply to the University of Florida Agricultural and Biological Engineering Department. More information can be found at https://abe.ufl.edu/graduate/admissions/.
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Post Doctoral Research Associate: AI in Land Cover Dynamics
Background Information:
The candidate is expected to provide leadership in remote sensing-based land cover dynamics using AI algorithms and high-performance computing in support of a NASA-funded project. Responsibilities include conducting and documenting research activities, writing refereed journal publications and research proposals.
Qualifications:
An earned doctorate in Electrical, Computer, Civil, Environmental, or Agricultural Engineering, or a closely related field. Candidate should be experienced in using remote sensing datasets, developing remote sensing algorithms and AI techniques. Applicants should have a good publication record, effective communication skills, and an ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students in the Center, the ABE Department and with other units on campus.
Employment:
This is a full-time, non-tenure-track faculty appointment. Initial appointment is for one year, with an opportunity for renewal. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications.
How To Apply:
To apply for this position, submit a letter of application describing your relevant experience, resume, transcripts, and the name and full contact information for three references to Prof. Jasmeet Judge via email jasmeet@ufl.edu
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Postdoctoral Research Associate - Indian River Research and Education Center
Background Information:
The postdoctoral associate will work in the Smart Irrigation and Hydrology, (SIAH) Agricultural engineering team (https://irrec.ifas.ufl.edu/guzman/) at the Indian River Research and Education Center (https://irrec.ifas.ufl.edu/). The Indian River Research and Education Center is a unit of the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) at the University of Florida and is located on a 700-acre site west of Fort Pierce, St. Lucie County. Fort Pierce is located on the east coast of Florida, 50 miles north of West Palm Beach. The internationally recognized research center is located in a major agricultural region in which nurseries, citrus, beef cattle, and vegetables are major industries. The IRREC is an interdisciplinary unit of the Florida Agricultural Experiment Station, the Florida Extension Service, and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, all of which are administered by IFAS to serve the land-grant mission.
Required Experience: experience with sensor-based irrigation management, data analysis, decision support systems, soil-plant-water sampling protocols, and time series analysis
Preferred Experience: experience with participatory modeling, extension activities, project management, water quality sampling and analysis, machine learning and statistical analysis. Ability to efficiently plan, organize, and coordinate work assignments. Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships. Ability to publish manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals
Special Knowledge/skills: experience with hydrological and crop modeling. Programming experience with Phyton (R, or MATLAB equivalent) databases, ArcMap, and data analysis tools
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Graduate Research Assistantship (Ph.D. Level) - Precision Irrigation Management
Background Information:
Applications are solicited for a Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) position (Ph.D.level) in the Agricultural and Biological Engineering Department at the University of Florida under the supervision of Dr. Vivek Sharma, starting Fall, 2023. The candidate should be interested in working in the field of precision irrigationmanagement. Potential research focus includes but is not limited to irrigation and nutrient management, irrigation system management, water quality, groundwater leaching, and crop and hydrological modeling. The successful candidate should be self-motivated, creative, and has a desire to collaborate ina multidisciplinary environment. The candidate will be expected to publish in peer-reviewed journals and conference publications. The GRA will cover stipends, tuition, and fee. A reviewof applications will begin in Spring 2023.
Required Qualifications:
M.S. degree in Agricultural and Biological Engineering, Soil and Water Science, Agronomy, or any other related field with a GPA of 3.0 or higher; English writing and communication skills; Non-English credentials must obtain a TOEFL score of 79 iBT or IELTS score of 6.5 or higher (GRE may be waived).
Preferred Qualifications: Knowledge and experience in soil water conservation technologies; experience and willingness to work in various field conditions; programming skills (Python, R, etc.); record of previous scientific communications (journal articles or/and conference publications).
How to Apply: Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr. Vivek Sharma (vsharma1@ufl.edu) directly with a copy of your CV and research statement.
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Postdoctoral Research Scientist: Precision Water Management
Background Information:
The Precision Water Lab in the Agricultural and Biological Engineering Department is recruiting a post-doctoral research scientist in the field of Precision Water Management focusing on soil moisture sensing as a part of the Florida Agricultural Soil Moisture Sensor Network. The candidate will work in a team environment comprising researchers, graduate students, extension agents, and growers to expand the Florida Agricultural Soil Moisture Sensor Network. The successful candidate should have the knowledge to design custom software to integrate computer vision and IoT components which will be used for data collection and soil moisture monitoring in agricultural fields and engage in developing the AI/ML techniques. Furthermore, the incumbent will maintain online resources for external users once the products are released and the documentation becomes public. In addition, the candidate will get an opportunity to involve in other projects related to precision water and fertilizer management focusing on variable rate irrigation, nutrient technologies, water quality, groundwater leaching, and crop and hydrological modeling. The candidate is expected to have the ability to work effectively in field and lab settings. The successful candidate should be self-motivated, creative, and has the desire to collaborate in a multidisciplinary environment. The candidate will be expected to publish in peer-reviewed journals and conference publications. A review of applications will begin immediately until the position is filled.
Qualifications:
An earned doctorate in Agricultural and Biological Engineering, Digital Agriculture, Precision Agriculture, Soil and Water Resources, or related Fields.
Preferred Qualifications:
The successful candidate should have the knowledge to design custom software to integrate computer vision and IoT components which will be used for data collection and soil moisture monitoring in agricultural fields and engage in developing the AI/ML techniques. Experience in R, Python, and/or C++ programming; Basic understanding of computer vision principles. Applicants should have a good publication record, effective communication skills, and an ability to work collaboratively with researchers, extension personnel, staff, and students in the ABE Department and with other units on campus.
How to Apply:
Applicants must submit an application package to Dr. Vivek Sharma at vsharma1@ufl.edu including:
- Cover letter highlighting specific experience related to this position
- Curriculum vitae
- List of publications
- Unofficial transcripts
- Contact information of three references