Research Scientist

Job Summary

The Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR) at the University of Colorado‑Boulder is seeking a highly qualified Post Doctoral Associate to work on pre‑ and post‑launch phases of development and application of remote sensing algorithms for the cryosphere applied to the Thermal infrared Imaging Satellite for High‑resolution Nature Resource Assessment (TRISHNA) mission. The position is funded by the NASA Earth System Science Research program on the Hydrosphere.

The candidate will join the Mountain Hydrology Group at INSTAAR and the Snow Today team at the National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC) that are comprised of faculty, researchers, students, software developers, operations and communications specialists.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

• The successful candidate will work with the PI and contribute to the team’s research investigations into the application of physically based models combining optical and thermal data to retrieve snow surface properties from satellite observations. To support U.S. Earth Research, investigations seek to improve continental scale estimates of snow cover, snow albedo, snow radiative forcing, and snow wetness and their connections with snow volume and melt at high spatial and temporal resolutions.

• Ideal start date is 8/1/2026;
  End date is 7/31/2027;
  Potential renewal for a second year if funding is available. Position is contingent on continued funding in the Federal or state grants and contracts funding the position.

• $73,000 – $77,000 per year.
• Medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world‑class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.

• A Ph.D. degree in Earth Science, geophysics, engineering, environmental science, hydrology, geography, or related fields.
• Experience working with airborne and satellite data.
• Experience leading analysis and peer‑reviewed publications in remote sensing and Earth sciences journals on snow related topics.
• Experience presenting at geophysical, environmental, or weather‑related conferences and meetings.
• Ability and desire to develop, run, inspect, and modify existing scientific code and develop new approaches.

• Strong publication record, expertise in data fusion methods.

• Ability to lead independent research; excellent communication verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with basic computer software including the Microsoft Office suite, programming languages such as Python, R and /or MATLAB.
• Willingness to learn new methods or skills to support project goals.

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