Fully Funded PhD Positions in Geosensing at University of Houston
Three fully funded PhD positions in geosensing, focusing on autonomous systems, error quantification, and coastal change detection.
Best for:Best for recent graduates or master’s students with a strong background in geodesy, geospatial engineering, or related fields, and intermediate to advanced programming skills.
Overview
The Marine and Coastal Geosensing Group at the University of Houston invites applications for up to three fully funded PhD positions starting in Spring or Fall 2027. These positions focus on cutting-edge research in geosensing, combining instrumentation development and quantitative data analysis to study Earth’s surface changes. Applicants will work as Research Assistants on federally funded projects, including autonomous surface vehicles for seafloor geodesy, error mitigation in GNSS-Acoustic observations, and novel applications of geosensing techniques for coastal and continental margin studies. The program offers full financial support, including a monthly stipend, and encourages independent research within the group’s broader themes.
What you'll do
- Develop and deploy autonomous surface vehicles (ASVs) for GNSS-Acoustic seafloor geodetic surveys, collaborating with academic and industry partners.
- Quantify and mitigate errors in GNSS-Acoustic observations, establishing rigorous noise models for improved data collection and processing strategies.
- Apply geosensing techniques (GNSS, InSAR, satellite altimetry) to detect and quantify changes in coastal and continental margin regions, including crustal deformation and land subsidence.
- Participate in UNOLS research cruises to gain hands-on experience with instrument deployment and operation.
- Conduct independent research within the broader themes of the Marine and Coastal Geosensing Group.
- Develop strong skills in quantitative analysis, geodetic data processing, and scientific interpretation throughout the PhD program.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in Geodesy, Geospatial Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English (proficiency sufficient for academic research and collaboration)
Instruction: English
- Intermediate to advanced programming skills
- Experience or strong interest in geodetic techniques (GNSS, InSAR, satellite altimetry)
- Quantitative data analysis and scientific interpretation skills
- Willingness to participate in fieldwork, including research cruises
- No specific nationality restrictions mentioned
- No residency requirements specified
- No age limits mentioned
- No prior experience caps mentioned
Funding & terms
How to apply
Applicants should visit the PI’s opportunities page at <https://xie.cive.uh.edu/opportunities/> for detailed instructions. Preliminary reviews begin immediately, and candidates whose backgrounds align with the positions will be contacted for additional information. GRE waivers may be granted based on academic record.
- CV or resume
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)
- Statement of purpose or research proposal (if applicable)
- Letters of recommendation (number not specified)
Contact
Xie Wei· Principal Investigator
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