Postdoctoral Research Associate Position at NOAA GFDL

The Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences Program at Princeton University, in association with NOAA’s Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (GFDL), seeks two postdoctoral or more senior research scientist for Earth System research and development activities focused on data science and engineering applied to stakeholder-relevant issues.

The scientists will collaborate with Princeton and NOAA/GFDL researchers to expand the reach of GFDL’s model data (both historical and future projections) to communities in need of improved decision-making guidance. The successful candidates will have the opportunity to develop actionable weather and Earth System data and knowledge that will be used directly by applied researchers and NOAA stakeholders interested in adaptation to natural hazards and extreme weather potentially spanning sub-seasonal to multidecadal timescales.

The selected candidates will join a vigorous research group at Princeton University, working in close collaboration with federal scientists at GFDL with diverse expertise in areas such as hydrology, air quality, boundary layer turbulence, or empirical statistical downscaling. The individuals will have access to state-of-the-art numerical models and high-performance computing systems at Princeton and NOAA, working alongside GFDL researchers to advance the evaluation, translation and transfer of the state-of-the-art dynamical models results. This effort will lead to the creation and distribution of data products of value to key NOAA stakeholders involved in planning and decision-making.

Candidates must have a PhD in atmospheric physics, hydrology, meteorology, Earth system science, climate studies, applied mathematics, or related fields. Candidates should demonstrate a strong background in Earth system science, as well as experience using and analyzing numerical model output and/or large observational datasets. Successful candidates are expected to be skillful in some, but not necessarily all, of the following areas: experience with software languages and tools such as Python, R, Linux, GitHub, Globus, high-performance computing and/or cloud computing; familiarity with Earth system models through model development, model execution, and/or model performance diagnoses; applied mathematics methods such as machine learning techniques, bias adjustment, and downscaling of meteorological fields; strong data analysis skills; and strong communication skills.

The initial appointment is for one year with the possibility of renewal subject to satisfactory performance and available funding. The Term of appointment is based on rank. Positions at the postdoctoral rank are for one year with the possibility of renewal pending satisfactory performance and continued funding; those hired at more senior ranks may have multi-year appointments. Princeton is interested in candidates who, through their research, will contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community.

The work location for this position is in-person on campus at Princeton University. This position is subject to the University’s background check policy. Applicants should apply online at https://apply.interfolio.com/181429. Complete applications should include a cover letter, CV, publication and presentation list, 3 letters of recommendation, and a one-to-two page personal statement and/or a research statement. Review of applications will begin March 31, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. For additional information, contact Aparna Radhakrishnan (aparna.radhakrishnan@princeton.edu).