CIRES/ NOAA PSL Research Scientist in Downscaling Seasonal Climate Forecasts to Regional Coastal

Job Summary

The Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES) in Boulder, Colorado is seeking a post-doctoral or an early career research scientist to work at the NOAA Physical Sciences Laboratory (PSL).

This position will examine the seasonal predictability of coastal marine quantities (e.g., sea level, sea surface temperature, ocean bottom temperature) for many locations along the North American coastline. Forecasts based on empirical models, machine learning techniques, and initialized physical models may be developed and/or assessed by the chosen candidate, who will also evaluate the potential for dynamical downscaling, using global large-scale model forecasts that drive a regional ocean model along the U.S. coastal regions. A primary aim of this work is to contribute to the development of forecasts of coastal inundation on seasonal time scales. This is a relatively new area of climate forecasting, so the candidate need not be a specialist on all aspects of the problem but should be willing to learn and to show initiative.

The candidate should have excellent technical and communication skills and be comfortable working in a team environment.
The University of Colorado Boulder is committed to building a culturally diverse community of faculty, staff, and students dedicated to contributing to an inclusive campus environment. We are an Equal Opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Who We Are

Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences

At CIRES, the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences, more than 800 environmental scientists work to understand the dynamic Earth system, including people’s relationship with the planet. CIRES is a partnership of NOAA and the University of Colorado Boulder, and our areas of expertise include weather and climate, changes at the Earth’s poles, air quality and atmospheric chemistry, water resources, and solid Earth sciences. Our vision is to be instrumental in ensuring a sustainable future environment by advancing scientific and societal understanding of the Earth system.

https://cires.colorado.edu/

Physical Sciences Laboratory

Our mission is to conduct scientific research to observe, understand, model, predict and forecast weather, water and climate extremes and their impacts. An informed society that uses science-based environmental intelligence to effectively anticipate and respond to threats and opportunities related to weather, water and climate extremes. Our research goals are as follows:

• Rigorously characterize and predict weather, water, and climate extremes and their uncertainties to support NOAA's mission.
• Develop new process understanding, observing, and modeling capabilities to predict conditions associated with too much or too little water for early warning, preparedness, resource management, and adaptation.
• Improve monitoring and prediction of weather, climate, and water conditions impacting marine resources.

https://www.esrl.noaa.gov/psd/about/

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

• Conduct research relevant to the missions of NOAA and PSL related to the development of improved coastal seasonal prediction.
• Work collaboratively with a research team, including colleagues at NOAA and academic institutions.
• Effectively convey research through reports, peer-reviewed journal articles, and oral presentations.
• Assist in the writing of research proposals.

What You Should Know

• If you are the selected finalist you will be required to pass a federal laboratory background clearance for site access.
• This position will be rostered in CIRES at the University of Colorado Boulder but will be physically situated in the David Skaggs Research Center, 325 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80305.

What We Can Offer

• We can offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package.
• The annual hiring salary range for this position is $60,000 - $75,000.
• Relocation expenses are available for this position following CIRES and the University of Colorado’s relocation processes and procedures.

Benefits

The University of Colorado offers excellent benefits , including medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefit and ECO Pass. The University of Colorado Boulder is one of the largest employers in Boulder County and offers an inspiring higher education environment. Learn more about the University of Colorado Boulder .

Be Statements
Be Accomplished. Be Impactful. Be Boulder.

What We Require

• Ph.D. in physical science, applied math, or data science, with expertise in oceanography, meteorology, or related field.

What You Will Need

• Understanding of general aspects of physical coastal oceanography.
• Demonstrated ability to perform climate data analysis.
• Ability to work independently and contribute to the team.
• Ability to contribute to a diverse and inclusive workforce.
• Experience developing structured code in commonly used languages.

What We Would Like You To Have

• Please note that while the position details both required skills above as well as desired skills and experience below, we want applicants to be aware that they do not need to have all of the desired skills and experience to be considered for this position. If you meet the minimum qualifications, have passion for the work, along with experience in a related field, you are encouraged to apply. We encourage on-the-job training for any additional skills or knowledge that become relevant to the position.
• Experience with statistical and/or dynamical downscaling techniques.
• Understanding of techniques used to make short-term climate forecasts, either empirical or physically-based.

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials:

1. Resume or CV
2. Cover letter addressed to the Search Committee briefly describing your qualifications, professional goals, and specific interest in this position.
3. List of contact information for 3 references who will be willing to write a confidential Letter of Recommendation for you. You don’t need to include letters of recommendation with your initial application. The search committee will request letters of recommendation at a later time If you are identified as a finalist for this role.

If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources department using an approved online vendor. If your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit a translated version as an optional attachment.

The position will be open until filled. Applications will be screened as they are received.

Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs .

Posting Contact Information

Posting Contact Name: Matthew Newman

Posting Contact Email: matt.newman@noaa.gov