Senior Research Scientist

Apply now to join FAU on its race to excellence.

For more information on everything FAU has to offer, please visit www.fau.edu/jobs. 

Note: Current FAU employees must apply as an internal applicant by logging into their existing Workday employee account.

Position Summary:

Florida Atlantic University is seeking a Senior Research Scientist - Fort Pierce, FL.

FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute is a world class research institution focusing on marine science and oceanography with over 200 scientists, staff and students that work and study at the site.  

As part of the Ocean Engineering and Technology Team, the Senior Research Scientist has primary responsibility for leading innovative research efforts in ocean optics, remote sensing, and advanced imaging systems. This position will require federal clearance, and U.S Citizenship status.

Summary of Responsibilities:

• Perform independent research and develop solutions for a wide range of scientific and engineering challenges relating to ocean optics, including multi- and hyperspectral imaging sensors and instruments for underwater and spaceborne research.

• Conduct innovative research and data analysis on new sensors and their characteristics, as well as methods for inter-sensor comparisons and analyses including bias correction and uncertainty characterizations.

• Assist with decision-making regarding optical sensing systems for oceanographic and space research projects.

• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to advance research in environmental and remote sensing technologies for DoD and other government-funded programs.

• Develop and interpret scientific algorithms and associated software for optical and imaging systems that apply radiative transfer modeling and Monte Carlo ray tracing.

• Evaluate experimental results, perform quality control tests, and conduct data analyses using statistical methods including manipulation of large scientific datasets with expertise in visualization applications.

• Design and refine models to simulate optical systems using TracePro and Zemax and analyze datasets through platforms such as MATLAB and SQL.

• Work with physical models of light propagation to participate in development of algorithms for ocean color remote sensing, polarimetry, and in-water imaging applications.

• Create and modify software solutions using scientific programming languages such as Fortran and Scheme, with knowledge of data formats commonly used in Earth system modeling.

• Develop methods for performance assessment characterization, calibration, and testing of optical sensing systems and oversee execution.

• Generate detailed reports, documenting and presenting findings in both written and verbal formats to collaborators and program managers.

• Perform fieldwork on oceanographic research vessels, collecting and analyzing data to validate models and systems in real-world conditions

• Attend meetings, participate in on-line seminars, and related conferences, trainings, as required to stay abreast current developments.

• In keeping with “service to the University” incumbent may serve on temporary committees and/or groups as elected, delegated, and/or assigned.

• Perform and participate in audit related situations, investigations, or related as needed.

• Other Duties – Perform other tasks, duties, projects as assigned.

FAU Benefits and Perks

If Benefits & Perks are important to you, then FAU is the place to be! Working at FAU has its perks! In addition to helping drive change and having a positive impact by supporting our students, staff, and faculty, FAU offers:

• Excellent benefit packages including Medical (PPO/HMO $50 per month single & $180 per month family), Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending plans, Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and much more.

• State retirement options including tax-deferred annuities and Roth 403(b) plans.

• State employees Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program - https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service

• Flexible work arrangement plans - https://www.fau.edu/hr/employee_relations/flexwork.php

• Sick Leave Pool Program

• Paid time off (eligible e