Research Scientist

Position Overview

AMA is seeking a career level Research Scientist to support atmospheric remote sensing research at NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC). The role focuses on advancing the analysis of long‑term atmospheric data records and enhancing NASA’s expertise in interpreting global observations of atmospheric composition measurements.

Applicants should have strong expertise in atmospheric remote sensing, middle‑atmospheric composition, and trace gas chemistry and dynamics. Engagement with the broader scientific community and presentation of novel scientific analyses will be expected.

• Conduct scientific programming and data analysis for atmospheric remote sensing products, including ozone, water vapor, and related trace gases.
• Analyze and interpret atmospheric measurements from NASA and partner instruments, including long‑term data sets and climatologies.
• Perform and interpret ensemble analyses to statistically intercompare satellite remote sensing observations, climatological models, and re‑analyses of atmospheric composition and dynamics.
• Collaborate with NASA scientists and university partners to assess the temporal evolution of atmospheric state variables and gaseous species concentrations.
• Prepare technical documentation and reports (LaTeX or Microsoft Word) summarizing findings, evaluations, and recommendations.
• Contribute to software development, configuration management, testing, debugging, and deployment of scientific analysis tools.

• Bachelor’s in Physics, Atmospheric Science, or a related field.
• 5-10 years of demonstrated experience with satellite, airborne, or ground‑based atmospheric datasets.
• Background in processes governing atmospheric physics, chemistry, and/or dynamics.
• Scientific programming proficiency in Python, MATLAB, IDL, or similar languages.
• Experience analyzing atmospheric data products such as trace gases and aerosols.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, including uncertainty analysis and retrieval evaluation.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• U.S. citizenship or permanent residence required for an onsite position.

• PhD in a relevant scientific discipline capable of performing research independently.
• Familiarity with stratospheric chemistry and dynamics processes.
• Experience working with atmospheric data sets, including model data, to interpret atmospheric transport or dynamic and chemical evolution of air parcels.
• Experience with SAGE I/II/III, MLS, ACE‑FTS, OMPS‑LP, or other satellite remote sensing data sets.
• Experience with reanalysis products or models of stratospheric trace gas products.
• Familiarity with NASA data systems, formats (NetCDF, HDF), and analysis workflows.
• Experience collaborating with university or government research partners.

Salary range: $90,000–$125,000, commensurate with education and experience.

Competitive salaries and a substantial benefits package, including paid personal and federally recognized holiday leave, salary deferral into a 401(k) with matching, tuition reimbursement, short‑ and long‑term disability plans, and a variety of medical, dental, and vision insurance options.

AMA is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment or employee because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic prohibited under federal, state, or local laws.