Research Associate V

Purpose of the Position: The EarthRISE Project Office, within the Lab for Applied Science (LAS) under the Earth System Science Center (ESSC), is seeking a Research Associate to support science teams across EarthRISE and to help contribute to an EarthRISE ARL research initiative across the NASA Earth Science Division (ESD). The position will complement a large and dynamic applied sciences group and, as a member of the EarthRISE Project Office, will provide project and solution management expertise.

This includes supporting solutions development through active communication with NASA HQ and centers; building and maintaining a database of ESD projects with an evaluation and summary of those at Application Readiness Levels (ARL) 8/9; working with both technical and lay staff to reach out to and summarize existing projects and their ARLs; and synthesizing information across the portfolio for internal NASA awareness and reporting.

The incumbent will have knowledge of applied Earth Science, strong project management skills, and a desire to provide leadership and strategic planning to achieve NASA and EarthRISE goals. A strong background in applied Earth Science—including familiarity with satellite remote sensing data products and with federal ARL/TRL frameworks and reporting—together with practical experience coordinating or managing diverse teams, is required.

• Implement project management practices across EarthRISE.
• Support solutions development by maintaining active communication across NASA HQ and centers.
• Leverage background and experience in thought and practice to lead strategic engagement for EarthRISE.
• Regular coordination with Research Scientists, Stakeholders, and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs).
• Build out a database of ESD projects with an evaluation and summary of Application Readiness Level (ARL) 8/9 projects, including communications with relevant PIs and scientists.
• Work with both technical and lay staff to reach out to and summarize existing projects and their associated ARLs.
• Work with Thematic Science, Cross-cutting Science, and Geospatial Information Technology (GIT) teams to identify solution needs.
• Communicate frequently within EarthRISE for cross-sectoral and thematic awareness and reporting, and with NASA HQ, as appropriate.
• Support project coordination, communication, and collaboration with other relevant EarthRISE and broader NASA ESD initiatives.

• Bachelor's degree in project management, earth sciences, social sciences, or a related degree (education and work experience may be substituted for a specific degree).
• Minimum of 5.5 years of verifiable, full-time work experience.
• Project management skills, including co-development, communication, coordination, problem-solving, and teamwork skills related to technical, schedule, and/or budget oversight.
• Experience leading projects with multiple stakeholders.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with both technical and lay staff.
• Ability to synthesize information from diverse technical and programmatic sources.
• Familiarity with applied EO science / geospatial technology.
• Strong familiarity with satellite remote sensing data products and a willingness to learn more.
• Familiarity with federal Application Readiness Levels (ARLs) / Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) and associated reporting.
• QA/QC experience.
• Experience with the use and application of databases for project tracking and documentation.
• Expertise in local development issues, including resource management and resilience.
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity pertinent to various US regions and supporting locally-led development.
• Willingness to work closely with others in team environments.
• Periodic domestic travel is a requirement of the position, and possible international travel.

• Master's degree in project management, earth sciences, or social sciences.
• Minimum of 3 years' experience working in project management.
• Experience working with NASA and/or other federal, state, local, tribal, or private sector organizations is desired.

$70,500-$87,741

The University of Alabama in Huntsville is an equal opportunity employer (EOE), including an EOE of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.