Research Scientist

Analytical Mechanics Associates•Hampton, VA

5d•$90,000 - $125,000•Onsite

About The Position

AMA is seeking a career level Research Scientist to support atmospheric remote sensing research at NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC). This role focuses on advancing the analysis of long‑term atmospheric data records and enhancing NASA’s expertise in interpreting global observations of atmospheric composition measurements. A candidate with strong expertise in atmospheric remote sensing, middle atmospheric composition, and trace gas chemistry and dynamics is desired for this position. Engagement with the broader scientific community and presentation of novel scientific analyses will be expected. The selected candidate will help to develop time series analyses and to interpret long-term observations of trace gases and atmospheric state parameters from satellite observations. Additional experience in passive remote sensing instrument characterization and retrieval algorithms would be an asset. This position integrates scientific programming, data analysis, time series analysis, and atmospheric chemistry and dynamics as part of NASA’s mission to understand atmospheric variability and long‑term trends. The successful candidate will be required to live within a reasonable commuting distance from the NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, VA.

Requirements

Bachelor’s in Physics, Atmospheric Science, or a related field.
5-10 years of demonstrated experience with satellite, airborne, or ground‑based atmospheric datasets.
Background in processes governing atmospheric physics, chemistry, and/or dynamics.
Scientific programming proficiency in Python, MATLAB, IDL, or similar languages.
Experience analyzing atmospheric data products such as trace gases and aerosols.
Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, including uncertainty analysis and retrieval evaluation.
Strong oral and written communication skills.
U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence is required.

Nice To Haves

PhD in a relevant scientific discipline capable of performing research independently.
Familiarity with stratospheric chemistry and dynamics processes.
Experience working with atmospheric data sets, including model data, to interpret atmospheric transport or dynamic and chemical evolution of air parcels.
Experience with SAGE I/II/III, MLS, ACE-FTS, OMPS-LP, or other satellite atmospheric remote sensing data sets.
Experience with reanalysis products or models of stratospheric trace gas products.
Familiarity with NASA data systems, formats (NetCDF, HDF), and analysis workflows.
Experience collaborating with university or government research partners.
Additional experience in passive remote sensing instrument characterization and retrieval algorithms would be an asset.

Responsibilities

Conduct scientific programming and data analysis for atmospheric remote sensing products, including ozone, water vapor, and related trace gases.
Analyze and interpret atmospheric measurements from NASA and partner instruments, including long‑term data sets and climatologies.
Perform and interpret ensemble analyses to statistically intercompare satellite remote sensing observations and climatological models and re-analyses of atmospheric composition and dynamics.
Collaborate with NASA scientists and university partners to assess the temporal evolution of atmospheric state variables and gaseous species concentrations.
Prepare technical documentation and reports (LaTeX or Microsoft Word) summarizing findings, evaluations, and recommendations.
Contribute to software development, configuration management, testing, debugging, and deployment of scientific analysis tools.