Scientist

Universities of Wisconsin • Madison, WI

3d • $120,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Space Science and Engineering Center is looking for an experienced researcher with a strong track record of tropical cyclone research and product development to join the Cooperative Institute for Meteorological Satellite Studies (CIMSS) tropical cyclone research team. The CIMSS Tropical Cyclone research group are leaders in developing and implementing actionable near-real time tropical cyclone decision support information from modern weather satellites. The researcher will lead research focused on utilizing infrared and microwave measurements from the U.S. Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) and Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS) programs as well as related sensors on European, Japanese, and Korean geostationary spacecraft and new commercial satellite assets to develop state-of-the-art global tropical cyclone intensity and dynamic products. A particular focus will be on merging satellite observations with other observation and prediction tools (including radar, airborne measurements, and NWP models) to improve tropical storm development, intensification, and track forecasts. The researcher will lead tasks related to the development, testing, delivery, and integration of algorithms to operational production systems.

Experience working with large meteorological satellite data sets, passive microwave and radar data products, and interfacing numerical weather prediction (NWP) models are required. Strong technical background in numerical computing including experience with machine learning (ML, “AI”) approaches, especially as applicable to feature detection and tracking in multi-channel imagery is required. Proficiency in scientific programming languages including Python as well as shell scripting and working with multiple scientific data formats such as HDF and NetCDF is required. Experience with Agile software development methodology, continuous integration, Git revision control, and software containerization is preferred. Experience working with commercial satellite data providers is preferred.

The candidate must have strong written and oral communication skills and an ability to pursue collaborations with experts nationally and internationally. The candidate is expected to conceptualize new research directions, pursue federal funding, give scientific and technical presentations at national and international symposia, conferences, and workshops, author peer-reviewed journal articles, and report findings to federal sponsors.

This position is being posted at the Scientist II and III levels. Level and pay are commensurate with experience.

This position is eligible for any of the following: 40% remote work. Remote work requires an approved flexible work arrangement (FWA) agreement. An FWA requires successful candidates to possess their own high-speed internet and phone to perform the work on a university provided computer. Per University policy, transportation between home and assigned work location is not payable/reimbursable and will be at the expense of the employee.

Successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (ie. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without the need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of employment. OPT and OPT-STEM are not eligible to apply. University sponsorship is not available for this position.

Requirements

• Experience working with large meteorological satellite data sets, passive microwave and radar data products, and interfacing numerical weather prediction (NWP) models are required.
• Strong technical background in numerical computing including experience with machine learning (ML, “AI”) approaches, especially as applicable to feature detection and tracking in multi-channel imagery is required.
• Proficiency in scientific programming languages including Python as well as shell scripting and working with multiple scientific data formats such as HDF and NetCDF is required.
• Strong written and oral communication skills and an ability to pursue collaborations with experts nationally and internationally.
• Minimum of 6 years in tropical cyclone remote sensing and research.
• Established peer-reviewed publication record.
• Capacity to lead a research science team including defining research priorities, implementing approaches, managing personnel, and reporting findings.
• Experience leading or participating in tropical field campaigns.
• Broad understanding of current and future geostationary and low-Earth orbiting weather satellite capabilities for weather decision support and remote sensing applications.
• Successful record of securing extramural research funding via science proposals to federal agencies (e.g. NOAA, NASA, and DOD).

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Agile software development methodology, continuous integration, Git revision control, and software containerization is preferred.
• Experience working with commercial satellite data providers is preferred.
• Experience working with commercial satellite data sources.

Responsibilities

• Conducts literature reviews, prepares reports and materials, and disseminates information to appropriate entities
• Writes or assists in developing grant applications and proposals to secure research funding
• Monitors program budget and approves unit expenditures
• Attends and assists with the facilitation of scholarly events and presentations in support of continued professional development and the dissemination of research information
• Collects and analyzes complex research data, conducts experiments and interviews, and documents results according to established policies and procedures under general supervision
• Serves as a unit subject matter expert and liaison to internal and external stakeholders providing advanced level information and representing the interests of a specialized research area
• Identifies research problems and develops complex research methodologies and procedures
• May supervise the day-to-day activities of a research unit as needed

Benefits

• generous paid time off
• competitively priced health/dental/vision/life insurance
• tax-advantaged savings accounts
• participation in the nationally recognized Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) pension fund

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree