Urban Contributions to Global Climate Mitigation Post-doctoral Research Associate The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Vacancy ID: PDS004599

Position Summary/Description:

This position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement that may include a partially remote work location, consistent with System Office policy. UNC Chapel Hill employees are generally required to reside within a reasonable commuting distance of their assigned duty station.

The Data-Driven EnviroLab ( DDL ) is an interdisciplinary and international research initiative based at UNC's IE that is redefining how data is used to tackle the world's most pressing environmental challenges. Analyzing the global environment at multiple geographical and jurisdictional levels from cities, countries, and regions to local communities and corporations we turn complex, large-scale, and often messy datasets into actionable insights that shape policy, drive accountability, and create real-world impact. We operate with a commitment to evidence-based, equitable solutions, building connections across disciplines, sectors, and geographies while giving special attention to underrepresented communities and data-scarce regions in the Global South. DDL was founded and is led by Associate Professor Angel Hsu.

The DDL is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to an interdisciplinary research initiative focused on quantifying the role of cities in global climate mitigation. This project integrates satellite remote sensing, Integrated Assessment Models (IAMs), and large-scale geospatial data to evaluate and model urban mitigation efforts and their contributions to global climate goals.

The successful candidate will lead and support the development of urban-scale geospatial models and analytical workflows that assess climate mitigation potential and track progress across cities worldwide. This work will involve processing remote sensing data, linking geospatial indicators with IAM outputs, and modeling the impact of urban policies and infrastructure scenarios. The postdoc will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of environmental scientists, geographers, modelers, and policy researchers.

The position is for 1 year with the possibility of extension pending funding and performance.

Education and Experience:

- Experience working with or integrating Integrated Assessment Models (IAMs) or Earth system models.
- Background in urban climate policy, GHG accounting, or net-zero emissions planning.
- Familiarity with data-model integration techniques and scenario analysis.
- Well-developed critical and analytical skills.
- Excellent organization and time management skills.