MS/ Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistantship
School of Plant, Environmental, and Soil Sciences | Louisiana State University

Scholarship Description:

School of Plant, Environmental, and Soil Sciences (SPESS) at Louisiana State University invites applications for open Graduate Research Assistant position on rolling basis. The successful candidate will join the Soil Hydrology and Remote Sensing (SHaRE) lab led by Dr. Vinit Sehgal to work at a unique intersection of soil physics, hydrology, and satellite remote sensing. The newly established SHaRE lab studies micro-to-mesoscale soil hydrological processes using remote sensing to understand better the linkages and constraints of the terrestrial water-energy-carbon cycles from regional-to-global scale. Additional research components may include field activities related to soil hydrological measurements for related research. The assistantship offers comprehensive benefits, including full tuition coverage, health insurance, a competitive monthly stipend, and conference travel support.

Eligibility: 
Prospective candidates should meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • Hold a bachelor’s (for MS) or master’s (for PhD) degree in Hydrology, Soil and Crop Science, Remote Sensing, Civil Engineering, Agricultural & Biological Engineering, or closely related disciplines with competitive GPA.
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as R or Python.
  • A valid TOEFL BT score of >= 100 or an IELTS score of >= 7.
  • Peer-reviewed publications on closely related topics (Preferred).
  • Experience or interest in one or more of the following areas:
    • Soil science
    • Hydrology
    • Satellite remote sensing
    • Land-surface modeling
    • Prediction and monitoring of hydrological extremes for drought, flood, and wildfire
    • Ecosystem modeling

How to Apply: 
Prospective candidates should reach out to Dr. Vinit Sehgal via email (vsehgal@agcenter.lsu.edu), along with the following documents as applicable:

  • A cover letter expressing their interest in the position and alignment with the qualifications.
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Academic transcripts and relevant test scores
  • Names and official contact details of three references

The shortlisted candidates will be contacted for a Zoom/Teams interview. The selected candidate will also need to complete the formal application process through the LSU Graduate School Application Process: https://www.lsu.edu/graduateschool/admissions/index.php

Last Date: 
None. Candidates will be screened on rolling basis based on the availability of funds.

For further information, please contact:
Vinit Sehgal, Ph.D. E-mail: vsehgal@agcenter.lsu.edu