Research Scientist

Department: College of Science

Classification: Research Staff 12-month

Job Category: Research Staff

Job Type: Full-Time

Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)

Location: Fairfax, VA

Workplace Type: Hybrid Eligible

Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience

Restricted: Yes

Criminal Background Check: Yes

About the Department:

The primary purpose of the Atmospheric, Oceanic, and Earth Sciences (AOES) Department at George Mason University (GMU) is to advance understanding of the Earth’s atmosphere, oceans, and geosphere through cutting-edge research and education. The department focuses on studying atmospheric processes, ocean dynamics, and geological phenomena to address critical issues related to climate change, environmental sustainability, and natural hazards. By fostering interdisciplinary research and providing comprehensive academic programs, the AOES aims to equip students and researchers with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle complex environmental challenges and contribute to the scientific community and society at large.

George Mason University College of Science (Mason Science) is committed to advancing inclusive excellence and fostering an environment free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation throughout our STEM community. At Mason Science, our values include cultivating an organizational culture that promotes belonging, respect, and civility. We believe that varied opinions, cultures, and perspectives are what provides vibrancy, innovation, and growth to an academic community. By prioritizing cultural responsiveness in academics, teaching, research, and global engagement, we strive to attract faculty and staff who exemplify the Mason Science mission and vision.

About the Position:

The primary purpose of the position is to lead Research in Air Quality Forecasting and Modeling. The Research Scientist engages in designing, implementing, and managing research projects focused on regional and urban-scale air quality forecasting by developing Advanced ML/AI Models for Air Quality Applications. The main goal is to improve prediction accuracy and computational efficiency through fine-resolution data fusion, bias correction, and model surrogate development.

This position is also responsible to disseminate scientific findings through publications in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals in atmospheric science, environmental engineering, and presentations at national and international scientific conferences, workshops, and stakeholder meetings.

Responsibilities:

Leading Research in Air Quality Forecasting and Modeling:

• Designs, implements, and manages research projects focused on regional and urban-scale air quality forecasting; and
• Collaborates with multi-disciplinary teams to integrate modeling outputs into operational decision-making systems.

Developing Advanced ML/AI Models for Air Quality Applications:

• Applies machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to enhance traditional chemical transport modeling systems;
• Improves prediction accuracy and computational efficiency through fine-resolution data fusion, bias correction, and model surrogate development; and
• Conducts experiments comparing AI-enhanced models with conventional methods and validates performance under various atmospheric scenarios

Disseminating Research through Publications and Scientific Engagement:

• Prepares manuscripts for submission to high-impact, peer-reviewed journals in atmospheric science, environmental engineering, or AI applications;
• Presents research findings at national and international scientific conferences, workshops, and stakeholder meetings; and
• Contributes to proposal development for external research funding, including NSF, NOAA, NASA, and EPA.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience;
• Considerable experience (generally 5 years or longer) in atmospheric sciences; and
• Knowledge of Fortran, Python, R, Database (Postgres, MySQL, SQLite), Shell program language skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of Community Multiscale Air Quality (CMAQ) program, Sparse Matrix Operator Kerner Emissions (SMOKE) program, Data Assimilation, Surrogate Tools, and other modeling skillsets.

Instructions to Applicants: 

For full consideration, applicants must apply for the Research Scientist at https://jobs.gmu.edu/. Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a cover letter and CV for review.

Posting Open Date:  May 16, 2025

For Full Consideration, Apply by:  May 30, 2025

Open Until Filled:  Yes