Post Doctoral Scholar - AI and Machine Learning

Position Overview

The Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science and Institute for Computational and Data Sciences at Penn State is seeking a postdoctoral scholar in the area of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) applied to numerical weather prediction and data assimilation. This is a term position; the length will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length will be based on university need, performance, and availability of funds.

The postdoc will be part of a team spanning NASA Goddard, Purdue University, Penn State University, and others to support the NASA AIST program project “Machine‑Learning to Improve Cycling and Forecasts with GEOS and Expedite the Evaluation of Assimilating Observations from New Instruments.” The project involves training, tuning, and evaluation of computer vision based ML surrogate models for the atmosphere and sea surface as part of the ensemble component of the NASA GEOS hybrid ensemble data assimilation system.

Evaluations will be conducted on high‑performance computing environments and will be important for the project. Explorations of additional ways to hybridize data assimilation and machine learning are possible.

The postdoc will join a cohort of AI/HPC postdocs affiliated with ICDS, providing opportunities to engage in an interdisciplinary community and interact with different faculty co‑hires and researchers applying these techniques to various disciplines.

• A Ph.D. in a discipline related to this work, including Meteorology and Atmospheric Science, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or Statistics is required by the start date. Must provide proof of a scheduled dissertation defense date for a Ph.D. prior to offer.
• Strong computer programming skills and the ability to work independently on complex problems.
• Expertise in applying and evaluating data assimilation and/or machine learning techniques.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team, with strong written and oral communication skills, motivation, and the ability to meet project timelines.

• Previous experience training and evaluating deep learning emulators for high‑dimensional geophysical systems.
• Previous experience using ensemble and hybrid variational data assimilation systems.
• Expertise with the predictability of atmospheric and Earth system predictions.

June 1, 2026

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional well‑being. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. (

Note:

For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.)

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Questions regarding the position may be directed to Dr. Steven Greybush, sjg
213.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.