Oceanography Postdoctoral Research Associate – U.S. Naval Research Laboratory

The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory has openings for Ph.D. researchers to advance capabilities in ocean data assimilation and probabilistic forecasting. This includes optimization of underwater, airborne and satellite observing systems, representation of ocean processes affecting temperature, salinity, and mixed-layer depth, uncertainty analysis in coupled systems, and ensemble and probabilistic ocean forecasting. High priority efforts presently include automated targeting for unmanned ocean observing systems, representing probability in ocean/acoustic systems, and forecast correction using satellite-observed surface heat fluxes. This long-term work is developing cutting edge capabilities that transition to U.S. Navy operational forecast centers.

For a quick overview of some of the research projects within the NRL Ocean Sciences Division at Stennis Space Center, visit the web site: https://www7320.nrlssc.navy.mil/pubs.php

This is an excellent opportunity to work with some of the best modelers and data analysts in the ocean community. The Naval Research Laboratory has access to Department of Defense supercomputer sites in addition to excellent local computer resources. The laboratory is collocated with the Naval Oceanographic Office and Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center, which are the largest U.S. naval operational forecast centers for oceanography.

The postdoctoral research associate will join a collaborative team of principal investigators, Post-Docs, and students at the Naval Research Laboratory’s Ocean Sciences Division. There is substantial technical support for data analysis and data management. The position is at Stennis Space Center, located between New Orleans and the MS Gulf Coast.

Candidates with any combination of the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below are encouraged to apply:

• Familiarity with oceanographic data collection methods.
• Data analysis including statistical analysis, functional fitting, EOF analysis, and/or Fourier analysis, optimal estimation, data assimilation, and/or statistical analysis.
• Familiarity with numerical methods/computational fluid dynamics.
• Strong technical writing and communication skills.
• Strong team player who works well in a team environment.
• Experience with Linux-based systems.
• Programming (e.g. Python, MATLAB) for a range of data analysis functions, graphics, model output analysis-postprocessing.
• Familiarity with FORTRAN & MPI.
• Experience on High Performance Computing systems.
• Experience with ocean (HYCOM, NCOM), surface waves (WAVEWATCH III), and/or sea ice (CICE) models.
• Experience with data assimilation techniques and applications.

Job Type: Full Time

Annual stipend: $79,363

Location: Stennis Space Center, MS

Benefits: Medical insurance (including dental and vision), annual professional travel allocation of $3,000 and relocation reimbursement for those who qualify

Required Qualifications: PhD in oceanography or related field obtained within the last five years. US citizenship or US permanent residency at time of application.

Learn more about NRL’s Postdoctoral programs by visiting https://www.nrl.navy.mil/careers/post-doc/

To apply:

Contact 7320jobs@ nrlssc.navy.mil and include (1) a cover letter describing your motivation, previous relevant experience, and research ideas related to the advertised position; (2) curriculum vitae that includes the candidate’s list of publications and professional presentations; and (3) contact information for three individuals who can provide professional reference letters upon request.

NRL is an Equal Opportunity Employer

About the Naval Research Laboratory Ocean Dynamics and Prediction Branch (NRL7320):

Ocean dynamics and prediction includes basic and applied research in computer modeling of ocean system representing dynamics, thermodynamics, currents, tides, surface waves from deep water to shore, wave and surf, nearshore currents, computational numerical techniques, data assimilation and the analysis of satellite oceanographic data as related to the development of modeling and data assimilation capabilities. Deep ocean basins, marginal and semi-enclosed seas, coastal and estuarine regions are of interest. Research in computational techniques includes the study of efficient solutions to partial differential equations arising in oceanography with special focus on efficient utilization of massive parallel processing technology. The ocean nowcast/forecast and simulation systems have broad and direct application to issues related to Naval operations (antisubmarine warfare, naval special warfare, expeditionary warfare, mine warfare, intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance, search and rescue operation). Transition of products to the DoD, Navy systems developers, operational Navy, and civilian (dual use) programs is a primary goal. The research programs are coordinated and interactive with other NRL programs and activities, the Office of Naval Research’s programs, and other government agencies involved in oceanographic activities. NRL also collaborates and cooperates with scientists from the academic community and other U.S. and foreign laboratories.

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Relocation assistance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Stennis Space Center, MS: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Stennis Space Center, MS