Position Overview
The BlueGreen Decisions Lab led by Dr. Conrad at
Colorado State University, Department
of Systems Engineering is recruiting one funded PhD position. Funded for a
minimum of three years with a possibility of additional funding, the successful
candidate will explore complex human-environmental systems interactions through
innovative research methods using social sciences and systems engineering.
Research Focus
The selected candidate will contribute to a vibrant and
unique research program that integrates social and engineering sciences to
enhance decision-making and visualization. The research will specifically focus
on:
1. Water-Energy Nexus: Detailed investigation
into the system interactions between water and energy utilities within urban
systems, focusing on applying systems approaches to enhance efficiency and
sustainability.
Secondary research opportunities include:
2. AI Applications: Enhancing decision-making
processes in the built environment through advanced artificial intelligence
techniques.
3. Human Dimensions: Applying social sciences to
investigate and model the human aspects of engineering and decision sciences to
foster sustainable development.
4. Sustainable Systems Engineering: Developing
solutions based on ecological resilience, nature-based solutions, and
community-focused approaches.
Details
The student is required to apply to the Systems Engineering
PhD program. They will benefit from the dynamic and collaborative research
environment provided by the Energy
Institute and CSU powerhouse campus, which provides access to unique field
programs and an international network of collaborators.
• Location: Colorado State University, Fort
Collins, CO
• Start Date: Fall 2024 or Spring 2025
• Application Deadline: July 1, 2024, for Fall
2024 enrollment, November 1, 2024 for Spring 2025 enrollment
Qualifications
• A Master’s degree in Systems Engineering,
Civil and Environmental Engineering, Environmental Science, Electrical
Engineering, or a closely related non engineering field with emphasis in human
geography, systems science, mixed methods for urban systems and or human
dimensions, and or environmental systems management/sustainability.
• Strong analytical and research skills with a
keen interest in urban systems optimization, resilience, and sustainable
engineering.
• Experience with modeling software, utility
systems, and or AI tools is highly desirable.
Application Process
Interested candidates should send a CV, unofficial
transcript, and statement of research interests to: Dr. Steven A Conrad (steve.conrad@colostate.edu).
Review of applications is ongoing. Upon encouragement from Dr. Conrad, students
would apply to the Systems Engineering Department.