Ionospheric Research Scientist - Job ID 10356

The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) has been developing innovative technologies and solutions for cutting-edge DoD and intelligence programs for six decades. Our expertise is in space and airborne IR, VIS, UV, and RF sensors, small satellite technologies, test and calibration, cybersecurity, data assurance, and ground stations.

We are seeking a physicist in the field of ionospheric and thermospheric modeling in our Albuquerque, NM office in support of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) on Kirtland Air Force Base.

The US Air Force has many airborne and spaceborne sensors and technologies, which are affected by atmospheric and ionospheric conditions. This scientist will spend their time exploring how the physics of the upper atmosphere, ionosphere, and exosphere affect these Air Force assets. This might include science investigations, first-principals modeling, or semi-empirical data representation techniques. This position affords creative latitude to solve complex real-world measurement, quantification, and data analysis challenges.

  

· Participating on a team of scientists working to validate and improve models of the ionosphere-thermosphere system

· Exploring numerical methods, machine learning algorithms, and distributing computing practices for modeling and data analysis

· Analyzing and processing data sources for model verification and validation

· Managing, processing, and presenting big data

· Publishing research results in a variety of forums, including internal reports, refereed journal articles, seminar presentations, and conference papers

· This position may involve occasional travel for short periods

· PhD (or MS with experience) in physics, engineering, space sciences, or a related field

· Competency in programming languages and analysis tools, e.g., Python, C, C++, Julia, FORTRAN90, or Matlab

· Ability to define and execute specific tasks based on broad guidance and organizational goals

· Strong written and oral communication skills

· Work effectively as part of a team

· Self-starter and be able to work independently

· U.S. citizenship

· Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance

· Ability to process and analyze space-based (measured ion, electron and neutral densities, drifts, temperatures, and magnetic field observations) and ground-based (ISR, SuperDARN, GNSS-TEC) ionosphere-thermosphere data

· Experience with assimilative models and data assimilative methodology

· Experience with numerical methods and machine learning algorithms

· Experience with Linux and Windows integrated development environments

· Readiness to learn new skills identified above

At SDL, we take pride in and highly value our employees. SDL offers competitive salaries and a fantastic benefits package, including:

· Flexible work schedules

· Generous annual, sick, and holiday paid leave

· A variety of inexpensive-premium, high-quality health, dental, vision, and life insurance options

· Generous employer retirement contribution (Up to 14.2% of annual gross earnings)

· Discounted USU tuition of 50% for employees and dependents

· Access to USU facilities and USU staff privileges

Along with the online application, please attach:

1) Cover Letter

2) Resume