Postdoctoral Fellow in Reservoir Simulation Hydroelectric Operations and Long-Term Planning

Project Description

The aim of this research is to re-regulate historical streamflow records within the Saskatchewan River Basin using reservoir simulation software, accounting for changes in upstream operations and water use. Water availability and drought risk for the basin under current and future climate will be explored under various water use scenarios. This research is part of a larger Manitoba Hydro project titled Corporate Flow Record Improvement (CFRI).

The outcomes from this project will provide key datasets, models, and information to update Manitoba Hydro’s assessment of the dependable flow case of 1940/41 and re-assess historical water supply variability and drought risk. Additional project background is provided at the end of this posting.

• Review existing water management models for the Saskatchewan River Basin and synthesize relevant inputs for RTC-Tools model development.
• Update consumptive use estimates for the Saskatchewan River Basin based on a review of current literature and collection and analysis of available data.
• Develop and calibrate an RTC-Tools model for the Saskatchewan River Basin on current regulation and water use.
• Conduct a scenario analysis of historical and future climate-affected stream flows under present-use regulation.
• Supervise an undergraduate student throughout Summer 2026.
• Prepare a summary report and draft manuscript for publication.
• Assist with the development of research funding proposals, and perform other duties as assigned.

This work is largely computer–based and the post-doctoral fellow (PDF) will split their time approximately 50% at the University of Manitoba and 50% at Manitoba Hydro, gaining valuable industry experience. The PDF will to Dr. Masoud Asadzadeh in the Department of Civil Engineering and staff at Manitoba Hydro in the Hydrology and Climate Section. Subject matter experts from the University of Manitoba’s Civil Engineering Department, University of Saskatoon’s School of Environment and Sustainability, and Manitoba Hydro’s Energy Operations and Water Planning and Energy Resource Planning Departments will contribute technical support and guidance.

• A PhD in civil engineering, water resources engineering, environmental sciences, or a related field is required at the time of appointment.
• Applicants must be within 6 years of graduating from their PhD.
• Demonstrated expertise in water resources modelling and optimization, including hydrology, hydraulics, and/or water management.
• Strong quantitative skills, including data management, hydrological data analysis, and statistical analysis.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

• Strong writing skills and a track record of peer-reviewed publications.
• Proficiency with tools such as R, Python, MODSIM, RTC-Tools, or other similar software.
• An understanding of prairie hydrology and Canadian transboundary water management.
• Demonstration of contributions to successful funding applications.
• Experience in training of HQP (highly qualified personnel).
• Experience in industry or working on applied research projects with industrial partners.

The full-time position (40 hours/week) is a 20-month term, with a target start date of January 5, 2026.

The position offers a salary of [$75,000] per annum, inclusive of benefits and net of applicable deductions, equating to [$125,000] for the full 20-month term.

The University of Manitoba is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from women, racialized persons, Indigenous peoples,