CIRES​/NOAA Chemical Sciences Laboratory, Research Scientist in Atmospheric Modeling and Data

Job Summary

The Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences(CIRES) at the University of Colorado seeks a Research Scientist to join the Stratospheric Modeling and Analysis (SMA) Program of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Chemical Sciences Laboratory (CSL) in Boulder, Colorado. Our group uses a variety of models and observations to study the complex relationships between stratospheric composition, chemistry, dynamics, and radiation, and how these processes affect weather and air quality.

If hired, you will work closely with a team of federal and CIRES scientists to implement improvements to an in-house satellite stratospheric composition dataset and use it to support new chemical forecast development/validation efforts and other scientific analyses of coupled stratospheric processes. This project will involve work with large satellite and model data sets, chemistry-climate modeling in a supercomputing environment, and likely investigation and implementation of machine learning software for scientific applications.

CIRES is an internationally recognized leader in innovative environmental science and research and is located at the University of Colorado Boulder. At CIRES, more than 900 environmental science professionals work to understand the dynamic Earth system, including people’s relationship with the planet. CIRES has partnered with NOAA since 1967, and our areas of expertise include weather and climate, changes at Earth’s poles, air quality and atmospheric chemistry, water resources, solid Earth sciences, and more.

Our vision is to be instrumental in ensuring a sustainable future environment by advancing scientific and societal understanding of the Earth system.

• Participate/lead in UFS-chem validation/development efforts, particularly with relation to stratospheric aerosols, ozone and water vapor, including: (40%)
• Evaluation of stratospheric ozone/water vapor/aerosol biases in comparison to observations (e.g. SWOOSH, SAGE III/ISS, OMPS), including episodic events (e.g., volcanic eruptions)
• Targeted UFS-chem experiments to test potential improvements with respect to stratospheric composition, and process studies to understand whether improved stratospheric composition and/or dynamics improve forecasts
• Develop and implement improvements to the SWOOSH multi-satellite water vapor and ozone data record, with a specific focus on SAGE III/ISS data and ensuring reliability of the long‑term record. (55‑60%)
• Evaluate new and updated satellite data sets for inclusion into SWOOSH
• Improve data screening, data homogenization, and uncertainty characterization
• Use SWOOSH, SAGE III/ISS, and complementary data sets for improved quantification and process‑level understanding of decadal variability and trends in stratospheric composition and circulation
• Perform other relevant duties as necessary (Not to exceed 5%)

• PhD in atmospheric science or a related field is required
• Experience with atmospheric chemistry, radiation, or dynamics is required
• Experience with statistics and numerical modeling is required
• Expertise with satellite and model data analysis
• Computer programming skills in python, IDL, or another scientific programming language
• Strong ability to communicate results in both written and oral form
• Ability to rapidly learn and effectively apply new knowledge and skills
• Strong interest in advancing scientific understanding through simulations and observations
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively
• Experience with machine learning (preferred)
• Provide proof of dissertation submission and successful defense prior to start date

• Compensation package: $72,000 - $84,450 annually (salary commensurate with education and experience)
• Relocation funds available to help offset expenses
• Hybrid work modality available
• Comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, retirement plans, generous paid time off, tuition assistance for you and your dependents, and an ECO Pass for local transit

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.