Postdoctoral Associate in Atmospheric and Geospace Science
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Haystack Observatory invites applications for two postdoctoral positions in atmospheric and geospace science. MIT Haystack Observatory is a pioneering and internationally recognized multidisciplinary radio science and remote sensing research center, upper atmospheric observatory, and astronomical microwave laboratory. The Atmospheric and Geospace Sciences (AGS) group at MIT Haystack Observatory operates the Millstone Hill Geospace Facility under US National Science Foundation support, comprising the Millstone Hill incoherent scatter radar, global GNSS total electron content (TEC) measurements, and the Madrigal distributed database system. The AGS group conducts fundamental and collaborative scientific research into the complex and highly intercoupled near-Earth space environment within the atmosphere-ionosphere-magnetosphere system, including studies of sub-auroral dynamics, whole atmosphere coupling, and plasmasphere-magnetosphere interactions. Research uses a wide variety of global observational data sets provided by incoherent and coherent scatter radars, GNSS, ionosondes, optical atmospheric remote sensing, and satellite instruments.
Duties and Responsibilities:
The successful candidates are expected to continue and advance the groundbreaking scientific investigations of the AGS group into dynamic magnetosphere-ionosphere-thermosphere coupling and lower atmosphere-ionosphere coupling processes under the influence of space and terrestrial weather. The candidates are expected to make use of existing ground-based and space-borne datasets offered by MIT Haystack Observatory, along with other available observational and/or modeling resources. The role includes reporting on scientific and application results through peer-reviewed publications, participation in scientific conferences, and direct interactions and collaborations with community colleagues. Opportunities are available to help with developing Haystack science and technical proposals.
Required Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in space science, physics, engineering, or a closely related field
- Experience working with and analyzing complex, multifaceted geospace experimental techniques and data exploration
- Evidence of software proficiency and fluency in one or more languages such as Python (preferred), MATLAB, and/or IDL
Preferred Qualifications:
- Evidence of a strong publication record
- Knowledge of the principles of atmospheric, ionospheric and/or magnetospheric physics
- Experience in numerical modeling and data assimilation, high-performance computation, and/or machine learning
- A firm grasp of mathematics and statistics
- Familiarity with Linux
In addition to applying on-line via the MIT website, qualified scientists are also asked to submit a brief statement of research interests, two letters of recommendation, and an outline of their research plan to the attention of Anthea Coster at [email protected]
MIT Haystack Observatory is located in Westford, Massachusetts.
This is an initial two-year appointment.
MIT is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and strongly encourage applications from individuals from all identities and backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive equitable consideration for employment based on their experience and qualifications, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, ancestry, or national or ethnic origin. MIT’s full policy on Nondiscrimination can be found here.