ASM Landscape GIS & Remote Sensing Research Fellow

Description

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is offering a research opportunity located in Reston, Virginia. The project focuses on the environmental impacts of artisanal and small‑scale mining (ASM) and utilizes remote sensing and geospatial analysis techniques.

ASM is a critical source of livelihoods and mineral production in many regions, yet it can cause significant landscape disturbance. This research will provide hands‑on experience using satellite imagery, GIS, and spatial analysis to identify and characterize ASM‑related land disturbance in tropical environments. Participants will train in compiling and analyzing multi‑temporal imagery datasets, digitizing mining features, developing geospatial databases, and evaluating relationships between mining activity and geomorphic or hydrologic settings.

• Compile, organize, and preprocess satellite imagery and geospatial datasets relevant to ASM activity.
• Conduct satellite image interpretation and develop GIS databases of ASM‑related features such as mining pits, excavation zones, sediment plumes, tailings areas, processing zones, and access routes.
• Attribute, classify, and perform quality control on interpreted spatial data products with associated environmental or geomorphic attributes.
• Interpret geomorphic and hydrologic characteristics of mining landscapes through terrain models, drainage networks, and landform relationships.
• Perform multi‑date image comparison and change detection analyses to evaluate spatial and temporal patterns of mining activity and landscape disturbance.
• Create maps, figures, metadata, and spatial data products for project documentation, presentations, and scientific communication.
• Participate in project meetings and collaborative research activities related to remote sensing, geomorphology, and environmental characterization of ASM landscapes.
• Potentially engage in exploratory analyses involving semi‑automated feature extraction or environmental monitoring applications using remote sensing datasets.

Participants will gain hands‑on experience in GIS, remote sensing, and spatial analysis methods within a federal scientific research environment. They will receive training in satellite image interpretation, spatial database development, environmental and geomorphic analysis, and scientific data management related to ASM landscapes. Additionally, participants will develop reproducible analytical workflows, produce maps and spatial data products for scientific communication, and engage in interdisciplinary applications of remote sensing and environmental science.

Pete Chirico, pchirico. For questions about the research, contact the mentor directly.

• Start date:
  
  June 15, 2026 (flexible based on candidate and funding)
• Length: 10 weeks, renewable upon recommendation and funding availability
• Level of participation: full time
• Stipend: rates vary; discuss at interview and will be provided in the appointment offer

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field, received within the past 48 months or anticipated by June 1, 2029

This opportunity is open to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and foreign nationals. Non‑U.S. citizen applicants should refer to the program website for acceptable immigration statuses.

Participants are not employees of USGS, DOE, or the program administrator. No employment‑related benefits are provided. Proof of health insurance is required; it may be obtained through ORISE.

For application process inquiries, email USGS and reference code DOI-USGS-2026-18.

DOI-USGS-2026-18