[ES_JOBS_NET] Associate Scientist, Earth Sciences, Global Modeling and Assimilation Office (GMAO), NASA GSFC

[Christine Wiedinmyer]

https://usra-openhire.silkroad.com/epostings/index.cfm?fuseaction=app.dspjob&jobid=1059&company_id=16640&version=1

Associate Scientist, Earth Sciences
Tracking Code
1059-200
Job Description
The incumbent of this position will work in the Global Modeling and Assimilation Office (GMAO) at NASA GSFC to investigate impacts of orbital sampling on the quality of weather analyses and forecasts.  The researcher will use the GMAO's GEOS modeling, data assimilation, and observation simulation sensitivity study (OSSE) capabilities to define and conduct experiments that contribute to assessments of the impact of orbital drift of polar orbiting satellites on the quality of the analyses.  The work will involve use of existing data alongside idealized OSSEs and provide quantitative assessments using standard metrics of performance, such as forecast skill and observation impact metrics. The work will eventually evolve to studies of optimal observing systems for NWP, with applications to future scenarios that combine large operational platforms from international weather services with constellation of smaller platforms that may be launched by commercial vendors. The work will be performed in conjunction with the task sponsor and a team of researchers in the GMAO.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

*        Design OSSEs to define and conduct experiments that contribute to assessments of the impact of orbital drift of polar orbiting satellites on NWP analyses
*        Analyze the OSSE output using quantitative assessments using standard metrics of performance, such as forecast skill and observation impact metrics
*        Evaluate optimal observing systems for NWP combining large operational platforms from international weather services with constellation of smaller platforms that may be launched by commercial vendors
*        Use of MERRA-2 and GEOS modeling system to advance GMAO data assimilation capabilities
*        Engage the academic community, both national and international, in research work through research collaborations, visits, invited guests, workshops, conferences, etc.
*        Develop an awareness of NASA's mission needs and address them to the best of ability.
*        Complete all trainings as required.
*        Other job-related duties as assigned


Required Qualifications:


Education:

*        PhD in the Atmospheric Sciences or Earth Sciences, with a strong background in the physics of radiation transfer.

Experience:

*        2-5 years of postdoctoral experience

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

*        Expert in data assimilation, analyzing NWP forecast skill and designing OSSEs for scientific studies
*        Must have working experience with satellite orbits and simulators, radiance assimilation and strong knowledge of radiation transfer
*        Experience of performing data assimilation experiments in GEOS systems.
*        Knowledge of structured programming languages as well as software packages for data processing and visualization
*        Proficiency in Unix environment;
*        Ability to work with large data files in hdf or netcdf format.
*        Strong capabilities in graphics and animations are highly desirable.
*        Demonstrated ability to carry out research and publish peer-reviewed papers

Technology:

*        Expert knowledge of programming in Fortran and working in Unix environment
*        Working knowledge of scripting (Python or other) languages are essential.
*        Knowledge or ability to learn advanced computing techniques in an ESMF environment, with GIThub code management, and OpenMP/MPI coding techniques is essential.

Attributes:

*        Strong analytical and problem-solving background.
*        Strong verbal and written communication skills.
*        Willingness to learn and improve.
*        Strong team player.
*        Ability to contribute to team-focused developments of large, complex data assimilation systems

Additional List of Requirements:

*        Meet regularly with the GSFC Sponsor and other team members to plan experiments and report results.
*        Demonstrate ability to work independently towards science research goals. Document science studies through internal presentations to peers and through written manuscripts, for GMAO reports or peer-reviewed publications, as appropriate.
*        Commit code developments to GMAO's Git repositories and assist colleagues in using these code developments in evolving GMAO systems.
*        Demonstrate commitment to teamwork and collaboration across the GMAO, with civil servants, other research institute staff, and support staff, as needed.
*        Contribute to the intellectual growth of colleagues by engaging in scientific and technical discussions, making presentations at internal meetings, etc.
*        Follow all NASA rules and regulations regarding access to center, use of IT equipment, and building access, as defined through the Satern training opportunities.

Working Conditions:

Work will be performed in an office or computer lab environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; talk or hear.  Keyboarding for large time spans each day may be a significant part of this position.

Travel:

National/international science meetings and topical team meetings, such as the JCSDA meetings.

Applicants should apply to the posting at https://usracareers.silkroad.com/ and include a letter of interest, resume, or curriculum vita.  Review of candidates will begin immediately.  Additional information on USRA can be found at www.usra.edu<http://www.usra.edu/>.

USRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabled/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity
Job Location
Greenbelt, Maryland, United States
Position Type
Full-Time/Regular

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