Postdoctoral Fellow

Postdoctoral Fellow Position

We seek a motivated postdoctoral fellow to contribute to cutting-edge research in coupled atmosphere-aerosol-land data assimilation and forecasting within NSF NCAR's Mesoscale and Microscale Meteorology (MMM) Laboratory.

The fellow will help advance satellite data assimilation capabilities and conduct cycling analysis and forecast experiments using a variety of real-world observations. The primary research platform will be our next-generation, online-coupled community analysis and forecasting system, based on the Model for Prediction Across Scales and interfaced with the Joint Effort for Data Assimilation Integration. The fellow will also be encouraged to explore various algorithms, including, but not limited to, artificial intelligence and machine-learning approaches, through targeted case studies.

Depending on project needs and the fellow's expertise and interests, the work may involve collecting and processing observational and model datasets; advancing data assimilation algorithms and observation operators; and developing postprocessing tools, cycling infrastructure, and workflow scripts. The fellow will also have opportunities to contribute to the implementation of coupling capabilities in the system and innovative approaches to satellite data assimilation.

The new hire will work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment, apply sound scientific interpretation to experimental results, advance the use of satellite observations in atmospheric composition and/or weather forecasting, and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.

Final date to receive applications:
This position will be posted until 11:59:59 pm MDT on Sunday, August 30, 2026.

Required application materials: (preferably uploaded as a PDF)

• Resume
• Cover Letter - Please address how your skills and experience meet the needs of this position (for more information, please refer to the Key Responsibilities and Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities sections of this job posting).
• Questionnaire - embedded in application

Background Checks:
Conducted for candidates selected for hire. Learn more.

Work Location:

Regardless of flexible work arrangements, UCAR requires ALL positions to be performed within the U.S., excluding U.S. Territories.

Education and Experience:

• Ph.D. degree within the last 5 years or expected within the next 6 months in atmospheric science, computer science, statistics, or a related area.
• Makes decisions about research tools and methods for investigating satellite data assimilation algorithms. Designs and implements approaches to data collection, experiment execution, data analysis, and scientific interpretation, with guidance from the supervisor and input from other members of the project team. Develops and implements research plans aligned with project priorities. Creatively and efficiently solves scientific problems as part of a team.
  
  Communicates with team members to share research results and co-develop methods, tools, and research products.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of data assimilation algorithms and cycling experiments.
• Skill in scripting languages (e.g., python/shell), particularly for testing and running workflows on supercomputers.
• Knowledge of satellite meteorology or cloud microphysics
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a research team.
• Excellent time management and organization skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Knowledge of numerical weather prediction modeling.

Desired, but not required:

• Demonstrated knowledge of remote sensing data assimilation.
• Demonstrated knowledge of satellite retrieval processes.

Hiring Salary Rate: $82,650

* Final salary and rates are based on education, experience, skills relevant to the role.*

For full consideration, all application materials must be submitted by 12am (MST) at the start of the Final date to receive applications. These should highlight how your skills and experiences align with the responsibilities of this position. We recognize that no candidate will meet 100% of the listed qualifications. If you believe your background has prepared you for success in this role, we encourage you to apply.

Supplemental questionnaires are often requested in lieu of a cover letter, where you address critical skills needed for the position. Your answers will be read and weighed equally to your resume and should provide specific, detailed, and informative responses based on your direct and previous work experiences.

Background checks and/or federal screenings are conducted for candidates selected for hire.

UCAR offers a comprehensive benefits package: health insurance, dental, retirement plan, leave plans, tuition assistance, and employee assistance programs:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Short & Long Term Disability Insurance
• Generous retirement plan - UCAR contributes of 10% of base salary
• Time Off Plans
  • Minimum 20 days of annual PTO
  • 10 paid holidays
  • 12 weeks of paid parental leave
  • FAMLI…