Associate Scientist, Earth Science

The Associate Scientist will focus on developing machine learning algorithms and statistical models to estimate surface air quality using satellite observations, developing calibration models for low-cost air quality sensors, and downscaling of global air quality estimates/forecasts at local and regional scales.  This involves analyzing atmospheric aerosols, fires, PM2.5, NO2, and other relevant data sets. The researcher will also work on integrating the large volume of air quality data sets coming from ground monitors, satellites, and model outputs into an easy-to-use database suitable for research and applications. In addition to research work, the candidate will participate in different applied science teams working on projects from the SERVIR regional hubs.

SERVIR is a joint development initiative of NASA and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), working in partnership with leading regional organizations around the globe, with the overarching goal to help developing countries use Earth observation data and geospatial technologies to improve their environmental and resource management. SERVIR has established “Hubs” within these regional organizations to strengthen that capacity. SERVIR is currently active in five regions: (1) SERVIR Eastern and Southern Africa in Nairobi, Kenya; (2) SERVIR-Hindu Kush Himalaya in Kathmandu, Nepal; (3) SERVIR Southeast Asia in Bangkok, Thailand; (4) SERVIR West Africa (WA) in Accra, Ghana; (5) SERVIR Amazonia in Cali, Colombia; and an upcoming SERVIR Central America.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

• Develop air-quality related services for SERVIR regional hubs Integrate data from the various platforms by collocating in space & time. Analyze satellite, surface, and model data to estimate surface air quality. Evaluate the quality of low-cost sensor data and develop calibration methods. Use machine learning, deep learning, and/or neural networks to model surface air quality. Presents research findings at national/international conferences and in peer-reviewed publications. Participate in scientific meetings, develop scientific papers, and engage with colleagues and collaborators pursuing related research questions. Responsible for publishing peer-reviewed scientific papers, writing proposal grants, and working with a team of researchers from multiple organizations. Other job-related duties as assigned. Manage the applied science teams (ASTs) working on regional hub projects.

Required Qualifications:

Education: Ph.D. in Earth Sciences, atmospheric sciences, computer sciences, or a related field.

Experience: 0 - 2 years of postdoctoral research experience.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: 

• Demonstrated skill in designing physics-informed neural networks and other machine-learning models. Knowledge/Experience in air-quality models like WRF-Chem or CMAQ. Interest in submitting proposals and applications for research grants and awards. Ability to connect with researchers from scientific institutions in the USA and overseas. Experience in using atmospheric observations (aerosols, flux, fires) from satellites and surface-based observation. Two or more years of programming experience in Python in a Linux/Unix environment. Knowledge of structured programming languages and high-performance computing. Knowledge of software packages for data processing and visualization. Experience with HDF, NetCDF, and other remote sensing data formats. Excellent oral and written communication skills and proven ability to work in a team environment. Ability to independently work through situational issues and use problem-solving skills to achieve desired project outcomes. Ability to develop training modules based on earth observations and machine learning models.

Attributes: Strong analytical and problem-solving background. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Willingness to learn and improve. Strong team player.

Working Conditions: This job operates in a professional office. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, etc. This is largely a sedentary role. This job may require extended work hours, evenings, and weekends to meet milestones/deadlines.

Travel:  Moderate – travel 2-3 times domestic and 2-3 times international per year