Research Scientist

Department: College of Science

Classification: Research Staff 12-month 

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

Location: Fairfax, VA

Workplace Type: Hybrid Eligible

Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience

Criminal Background Check: Yes

Restricted: Yes

About the Department:

The primary purpose of the Atmospheric, Oceanic, and Earth Sciences (AOES) Department at George Mason University (GMU) is to advance the 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.

Statement on Building an All-Inclusive Culture
George Mason University College of Science (Mason Science) is committed to advancing all-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 research on air quality forecasting and various air quality modeling and its practical applications. The Research Scientist will engage in projects on real-time air quality forecasting, by analyzing emission data for a variety of sources to understand their impact on air quality and developing and implementing software for air quality modeling.

Responsibilities:

Conducting Advanced Research

• Develops and enhances air quality forecasting models to predict pollutant concentrations across various regions. This involves integrating meteorological data, emissions inventories, and chemical transport models to improve prediction accuracy. The purpose of this action is to provide timely and reliable forecasts that inform public health advisories and policy decisions.

Analyzing Emissions Data 

• Analyzes emissions data from the official U.S. EPA’s national emissions inventory (NEI) including various sources, such as transportation, industrial activities, and natural events (e.g., dust storm and fires), to understand their contributions to air quality. This analysis is conducted using advanced statistical methods and modeling techniques to identify trends, sources, and patterns of pollution. The purpose is to inform the development of targeted mitigation strategies and regulatory policies.

Developing and Implementing Modeling Tools 

• Creates and implements advanced tools and software for air quality modeling, including emissions processing systems and chemical transport models. This involves coding, testing, and validating models against observational data to ensure accuracy and reliability. The purpose is to enhance the technical capabilities of the research team and provide robust tools for forecasting and scenario analysis.

Supporting Principal Investigators 

• Contributes to the preparation of research proposals and grant applications by providing technical expertise on air quality modeling and forecasting. This includes writing sections on methodology, expected outcomes, and the significance of the research. The purpose is to secure funding for ongoing and future projects and to support the principal investigators in achieving their research objectives.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in related field or the equivalent combination of education and experience;
• Significant experience/Substantial experience (generally 6-9 years) in atmospheric sciences; and
• Knowledge of Fortran, Python, R, Database (Postgres, MySQL, SQLite), Shepll program language skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

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

Instructions to Applicants: 

For full consideration, applicants must apply for 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/Letter of Intent with CV for review.

Posting Open Date: May 15, 2025

For Full Consideration, Apply by:  May 29, 2025

Open Until Filled:  Yes