Research Scientist – HFC Monitoring Project

Georgetown University comprises two unique campuses in the nation’s capital. With the Hilltop Campus located in the heart of the historic Georgetown neighborhood, and the Capitol Campus, just minutes from the U.S. Capitol and U.S. Supreme Court, Georgetown University offers rigorous academic programs, a global perspective, and unparalleled opportunities to engage with Washington, D.C. Our community is a close-knit group of remarkable individuals driven by intellectual inquiry, a commitment to social justice, and a shared dedication to making a difference in the world.

Requirements

The Research Scientist will help launch the HFC Monitoring Project run out of Georgetown along with PI Lickley and co-PIs Jones and Western. The HFC Monitoring Project at Georgetown University is a new initiative to improve the world's understanding of global emissions of highly potent greenhouse gases. This project will involve the development of sophisticated computer models of these emissions as well as on-the-ground measurements (i.e. flask sampling) around the globe. The offices of the HFC Monitoring Project will be at the newly renovated GU Capital Campus located at 111 Massachusetts Ave. NW.

In Year 1 of the project the research scientist will oversee the development of new flask sites in undersampled regions, help establish project plans, support the execution of those plans, track milestone deliverables and impact, and strategize on future projects. The establishment of new flask sites in Year 1 is central to the success of this project.  The Research Scientist will oversee the purchasing and shipment of measurement equipment as well as the implementation and quality control  of air samples at new flask sites in coordination with the  measurement teams at NOAA and UBristol.  They will negotiate and establish contracts with local partners and facilitate scientific collaboration between local partners and the Georgetown team.  The research scientist will help ensure flask sampling occurs on time and within the budget and establish, document, and assess the quality of sampling procedures to ensure high quality measurements are being implemented at the correct frequency.  The research scientist will be supported by a project manager, who will be hired to facilitate the development of new flask sites.  The research scientist will work with the PI to ensure the project is advancing at an appropriate pace.  In addition, the research scientist will collaborate with PI, coPIs and Postdoctoral researchers to maximize the scientific contributions of the project.  This position will require travel to support new site development and some flexibility around travel planning is required as the project develops.  In addition, the research scientist will help direct the reporting and website development towards the end of Year 1.  

Once flask sites are developed and sampling procedures are being consistently implemented (after ~ year 1) this position may drop down to part time, or the research scientist will shift their focus towards data analysis, modeling and emissions inversions depending on their expertise, interests and availability.

Duties include but are not limited to:

• Manage and coordinate all aspects of the project.

• Ensure rigorous implementation of flask sampling procedures.

• Oversee strategic planning for site selection and implementation timelines.

• Develop and oversee logistical operations, local partner activities, and contracts, assisting in supervising and directing the project manager.

• Conduct quality control and data verification activities.

Work Interactions

The Research Scientist reports to the Project PI (Lickley), works closely with the research team, and helps direct the Program Manager throughout Year 1 and into Year 2.  In years 2 and 3, they will assist with paper and grant report writing and mentoring the postdoctoral researchers along with PI and coPIs. In Year 3 of the project, they will co-plan the dissemination workshop. 

Requirements and Qualifications

• PhD in a topic related to atmospheric science and greenhouse gases and 6+ years work experience

• Exceptional organizational, planning, and time management skills, with strong attention to detail

• Experience working internationally is especially important for year 1 of the project

• Experience establishing and maintaining effective collaborative relationships across internal and external stakeholders as well as with individuals with varying levels of work experience and professional backgrounds

• Strong initiative and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision to meet deadlines and produce high-quality work in an environment with competing prioritie