Staff Scientist

Department

PSD Geophysical Sciences: Administration and Staff

About the Department

The Department of the Geophysical Sciences provides a vibrant venue in which scientists carry out research across several broad subject areas that span the past, present, and future evolution of the Earth, its life, and its cosmic environment. We pride ourselves in the innovative and interdisciplinary research of highly accomplished faculty, postdocs, graduate students, and undergraduates, all of whom push the boundaries of their respective fields. The Department supports a PhD program in Geophysical Sciences while offering undergraduate degrees in both Geophysical Sciences and Environmental Science and a master’s degree in Environmental Science. These programs allow students to discover, learn, and share knowledge about the natural processes that have and continue to shape our world and other planetary bodies. The Department is committed to fostering an environment where individuals from all backgrounds can grow and become the unique scientists they wish to be.

Job Summary

The Department of Geophysical Sciences at the University of Chicago invites applications for a Staff Scientist to work with Professor Mingyi Wang on innovative research into aerosol dynamics in dense aircraft plumes, providing the foundation for assessing the efficacy and environmental risks of stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI). This project aims to unravel the complex interactions of chemistry, microphysics, and wake dynamics in aerosol formation and evolution within the near-field aircraft plumes. The primary responsibilities of this position include developing a hierarchical framework that integrates aerosol microphysics, fluid dynamics, and Lagrangian plume models, running numerical models to scan the relevant condition space, interpreting data, and publishing the findings in peer-reviewed journals.

The expected start date is August 01, 2025.

Responsibilities

• Develop a hierarchical framework that integrates aerosol microphysics, fluid dynamics, and Lagrangian plume models
• Execute numerical simulations to explore the relevant condition space
• Provided training and supervision to graduate and undergraduate students
• Keep organized written documentation of modeling SOPs
• Performs experiments and collects and analyzes data. Participates in the promotion of a research project
• Participates in the preparation and writing of grant applications and reports, and co-authors/authors scientific research manuscripts. Provides peer review of grant applications and scientific manuscripts
• Perform other duties and projects as needed

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a PhD in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• PhD in Atmospheric Science, Environmental Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fields

Experience:

• A minimum of two years of postdoctoral experience or equivalent
• Expertise in aerosol microphysics modeling, parcel-model simulation, fluid dynamics simulation, or related computational experience
• A strong track record of independent research and scientific communication

Preferred Competencies

• Mentoring and teaching junior group members
• Work autonomously, and without detailed instructions
• Takes initiative to optimize modeling protocols and workflows
• Accuracy and attention to detail
• Troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Willingness and ability to learn new skills
• Foster an inclusive and positive learning environment for all students

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)
• Cover Letter which is to include your interest in this position (required)
• List of three professional references (required)

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Salary

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FLSA Status

Exempt

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Pay Range