Opportunities

We are recruiting a fully funded Ph.D. student (start in 2027 Spring) to join the EcoClimate AI Lab in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Houston. We are particularly seeking candidates interested in applying advanced artificial intelligence (AI) methods to environmental and Earth system science.

Our lab investigates how terrestrial and coastal ecosystems respond to climate dynamics and disturbances (e.g., wildfire, flooding, drought, land-use and land-cover change) through carbon, water, energy, and nutrient cycles. We aim to advance predictive understanding of ecosystem-climate-human interactions, enhance nature-based solutions, and mitigate natural hazards and climate risks. More information about our research can be found on our lab website. The successful candidate will join a collaborative and interdisciplinary team, with opportunities to work closely with collaborators at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Stanford University, UT Austin, and beyond.

🎓 Ph.D. Student (Spring 2027)

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Proficiency in Python programming and ML/AI. Prior experience applying ML/AI to remote sensing, geospatial, or environmental data is highly desirable.
  • Strong intellectual curiosity and self-motivation for scientific research.
  • Research interest in AI, remote sensing, Earth system modeling, land-atmosphere interactions, extreme events modeling, or coastal resilience.

Applicants must meet UH Graduate School admission requirements (including TOEFL/IELTS for international applicants).

📬 How to apply

Please email Dr. Kunxiaojia Yuan (kyuan@central.uh.edu) with a single PDF named “[Your name] - [PhD Application 2027]” containing:

  • CV
  • Transcript
  • Cover letter (1-2 pages) outlining your research experience, skills, and future interests
  • Contact information for three references.
  • TOEFL/IELTS transcript (required for international applicants).

Applications received by August 21, 2026, will receive full consideration. Review will continue until the position is filled. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is encouraged.

Due to the high volume of applications, we may only be able to contact candidates selected for further consideration. Thank you for your understanding.

🚀 Additional Opportunities

We are continuously recruiting postdoctoral researchers, Ph.D. and M.S. students, undergraduate research assistants, and visiting students/scholars. If you are interested in joining the EcoClimate AI Lab in any capacity, please feel free to reach out to Dr. Kunxiaojia Yuan including your CV and a brief introduction of your background and research interests.

🏫 About UH

The Department of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Houston is a large, well-funded department within a top-tier R1 research institution. Students and postdocs benefit from outstanding research resources, internship opportunities, and professional networking opportunities, which lead to a strong job placement record. Houston, the fourth-largest city in the United States, is a vibrant, diverse metropolitan area famous for its world-class museums and arts, championship sports teams, and an exceptional food scene. Despite its rapid growth, Houston remains one of the most affordable major cities in the U.S., offering an excellent quality of life.

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