Postdoctoral Associate

A postdoctoral associate is available in Space@VT with Professor Leonard Smith at Virginia Tech Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. The project is part of a larger vibrant, highly collaborative, interdisciplinary research team led by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in applied geophysics, focusing on simulation modeling, data analytics, machine learning, and uncertainty quantification in Solar and Space Physics. Virginia Tech will contribute new approaches, based on UQ, for more aggressive and effective pathways toward simulation model improvement within the multi-institutional cross-disciplinary Center for Geospace Storms (CGS) , one of the three NASA DRIVE Science Centers. CGS seeks to apply advances in modeling, simulation, and analysis capabilities afforded by increased computational power to augment and maximize the scientific understanding; this position will focus on identifying and exploiting inadequacies in the dynamics of the model to improve simulation in a structured manner. Skills acquired will be highly transferable. We envision the postdoc will leverage these efforts to creatively advance simulation and prediction in the broadest sense, interacting and contributions to prediction science activities across Virginia Tech.

- PhD in Physics, Math, Computational Science or in a related technical field, or the demonstrated equivalent experience. PhD must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.
- Knowledge of state-of-the-art techniques of data science, statistics and uncertainty quantification with applications to simulation modeling in scientific research.
- Demonstrated proficiency with advanced technical computing using languages such as Python, Matlab, or another comparable programming language.

- Prior knowledge of nonlinear dynamics.
- Experience with analysis of observational and simulation data sets, and data assimilation.
- Experience in wrangling large simulation models.
- Good communication skills (engaging both with model builders and with forecast stakeholders).

Appointment Type

Restricted

Commensurate with Experience

11/30/2022

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.