Job Summary

The Remote Sensing Research Associate in the Faculty of Arts at the University of Calgary is a specialized technical role within the domain of physical geography and geospatial science. Reporting to Dr. Brian Moorman, you will support collaborative research projects by analyzing environmental data gathered via drones and satellites. This role requires the “wit” to write sophisticated Python and SQL scripts for data modeling and the “grit” to manage complex photogrammetry workflows within a tight, grant-funded timeline.

Job Details

Employer: University of Calgary (Faculty of Arts).
Position Type: Full-time, Fixed Term (4 months with potential for extension).
Classification: AUPE Technical Job Family, Phase 1.
Location: Calgary, AB (with remote flexibility for meetings and collaboration).
Application Deadline: March 25, 2026.

Key Responsibilities: Geospatial Intelligence

You will act as the primary technical engine for spatial data analysis and cartographic production.

Remote Sensing Analysis: Process and interpret remotely sensed environmental data to support physical geography research.
Drone Photogrammetry: Utilize specialized software to convert drone-captured imagery into 2D maps and 3D digital elevation models (DEMs).
GIS & Scripting: Leverage ArcGIS Pro for spatial modeling while writing and maintaining efficient Python and SQL scripts to automate data tasks.
Statistical Validation: Verify research results using rigorous statistical methods to ensure accuracy and scientific integrity.
Cartographic Output: Produce high-quality maps, diagrams, and tables for inclusion in technical reports and peer-reviewed manuscripts.
Project Documentation: Maintain a detailed log of all parameters, issues, and analytical steps to ensure research reproducibility.

Candidate Profile & Qualifications

The “Spatial Scientist”: Minimum of an MSc in Geography, Engineering, or a related discipline.
Technical Wit: Expert-level proficiency in ArcGIS Pro, Python programming, and photogrammetry software.
Analytical Grit: Demonstrated experience handling large environmental datasets and executing spatial models independently.
Communication Mastery: Fluency in English (mandatory) with the ability to contribute significantly to manuscript writing and revisions.
Collaboration: A team-oriented mindset with the ability to report progress clearly in weekly meetings.

Technical Insights: The Remote Sensing Stack

In physical geography research, the “accuracy of the pixel” is paramount.

- Structure from Motion (SfM): You will likely use SfM algorithms to reconstruct 3D structures from overlapping 2D drone images. This is essential for monitoring terrain changes or glacial movement.
- Spatial Automation: Using ArcPy or the ArcGIS API for Python, you will automate repetitive tasks like coordinate transformations or raster clipping, ensuring the research team can scale their analysis.
- Multispectral Data: You may work with data across different wavelengths (e.g., Near-Infrared) to assess environmental health, such as vegetation moisture or permafrost degradation.

Diversity and Representation Statistics

The University of Calgary actively utilizes demographic data to address systemic barriers in academia and STEM.

Indigenous Integration: With approximately 50,000 Indigenous people in the Calgary region, the university’s ii’ taa’poh’to’p strategy ensures that geospatial research often considers Indigenous perspectives on land and environment.
The Confidence Gap: UCalgary cites research indicating that while men apply for roles when meeting 60% of criteria, women and racialized minorities often only apply if they meet 100%. The university explicitly encourages you to apply even if you do not meet every single qualification.
Concrete Demographics: In Canadian natural and applied sciences, visible minorities represent roughly 35% of the workforce. UCalgary strives to reflect and exceed these national benchmarks by prioritizing candidates from designated groups (women, persons with disabilities, and racialized minorities).
Accessibility: With nearly 22% of Canadians identifying as having a disability, the university provides full accommodation throughout the recruitment process to ensure equitable access to research opportunities.

Job Description

Do you believe that the view from above is the best way to understand the earth below? The University of Calgary is seeking a Remote Sensing Research Associate to join the Faculty of Arts. We aren’t just “making maps”; we are decoding environmental patterns that help us understand our changing world. If you have the “grit” to process thousands of drone images and the “wit” to script your way through complex spatial problems, you belong in Dr. Moorman’s research lab.

In this role, you are a “Geospatial Architect.” You understand that every coordinate and pixel tells a story about physical geography. Your goal is to provide “Excellence in Spatial Analysis,” ensuring that our maps and models are scientifically robust and visually compelling. We look for “Integrity-first” researchers who are meticulous, independent, and ready to contribute to Canada’s entrepreneurial university.

Joining UCalgary means becoming part of a top-tier research institution in one of the world’s most livable cities. We offer a highly collaborative environment where your technical skills in Python and GIS will be the backbone of innovative geography projects. If you are a dedicated scientist with a commitment to “Accuracy and Inclusive Research,” we invite you to submit your application by March 25, 2026.

University of Calgary: Daring to Imagine “Ahead of Tomorrow”

The University of Calgary (UCalgary) is defined by a culture of entrepreneurial spirit, audacity, and “can-do” Western energy. As one of Canada’s top five research universities, its mission—codified in the “Ahead of Tomorrow” strategic plan—is to tackle “wicked” societal challenges through transdisciplinary innovation. The workplace culture is rooted in collegiality and respect, emphasizing that “curiosity-driven investigation” thrives best in an inclusive environment. UCalgary moves with the speed of a startup but the responsibility of a public institution, fostering a “Living Lab” ecosystem where students and faculty are encouraged to be “pioneers at heart.”

The UCalgary footprint is a massive, multi-campus network that mirrors the diversity of the Alberta landscape:

Main Campus (NW Calgary): Spanning over 200 hectares, this is the university’s vibrant heart. It features the Taylor Family Digital Library, one of North America’s most technology-rich hubs, and the Taylor Institute for Teaching and Learning, a pioneer in pedagogical research.
The Olympic Oval: A legacy of the 1988 Winter Games, this iconic facility is known for having the “Fastest Ice on Earth” and serves as a premier high-performance training center for athletes globally.
Foothills Campus: Located south of the main site, this is the epicenter of health innovation, home to the Cumming School of Medicine and the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, adjacent to the Foothills Medical Centre.
Downtown Campus: Situated in the heart of Calgary’s business district, this campus connects the university with industry leaders, offering professional programs and hosting the Haskayne School of Business executive education.
Spy Hill Campus: Located in northwest Calgary, this campus supports specialized research and clinical training for the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine.

Working or studying here means being part of a top 100 global university for entrepreneurs. Whether you are engaging with Calgary’s business core or conducting genomics research, the experience is defined by the university’s commitment to “ii’ taa’poh’to’p”—its Indigenous Strategy—walking a parallel path toward truth and reconciliation while building a sustainable future.

To apply for this job please visit careers.ucalgary.ca.