Assistant Research Professor in Atmospheric Science

The Pennsylvania State University; University Park (PA, TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science at a leading university seeks an Assistant Research Professor to measure ultraviolet radiation from atmospheric electric discharges. This role involves conducting field measurements and laboratory studies to understand the impacts on atmospheric chemistry and ecology.

Benefits

75% tuition discount

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage

Robust retirement plans

Qualifications

• Ph.D. required in atmospheric science or related field.
• Skill in absolute calibrations of UV detection systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead field measurements of UV radiation from corona on trees.
• Perform laboratory calibrations relating UV signals to reactive gases.

Skills

Strong knowledge of atmospheric electricity

Strong knowledge of atmospheric chemistry

Strong communications skills

Ability to multi-task

Education

Ph.D. in atmospheric science

Tools

Ultraviolet detection systems

Photochemical box models

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the termlengthdiscussed willbebasedonuniversityneed,performance,and/oravailabilityoffunding.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Scienceat Penn State (University Park, PA) announces an opening for a Assistant Research Professor to measure ultraviolet radiation from atmospheric electric discharges and to lead laboratory studies connecting those field measurements to the production of reactive atmospheric gases. The successful candidate will pursue two main research objectives: conduct field measurements of the weak corona electrical discharges occurring on high voltage electrical systems and on trees under thunderstorms; and perform experiments and laboratory calibrations of the field measurement systems. Successful completion of these two tasks enables us to quantify the impacts of these measured electrical discharges on atmospheric chemistry, forest ecology, and built systems.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and participate in field measurements of UV radiation from corona on trees under thunderstorms and on high voltage power lines under different weather conditions
• Perform laboratory calibrations of the field instruments relating the observed UV signals to production of the reactive gases hydroxyl, hydroperoxyl, nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone
• Use photochemical boxes models to assess the impacts of these electrical discharges
• Serve as lead investigator, as appropriate, for funded research efforts related to these topics
• Advise or co-advise graduate and undergraduate researchers working in these areas

Requirements:

• A Ph.D. in atmospheric science or a related field
• Strong knowledge of both atmospheric electricity and atmospheric chemistry
• Demonstrated skill with absolute calibrations of ultraviolet detection systems
• Demonstrated knowledge of reactive gases and the instruments to measure them, especially hydroxyl, hydroperoxyl, nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone
• Strong communications and writing skills, ability to multi-task, and ability to work with a diverse array of collaborators
• Ability to advise project undergraduates
• Ability to serve as principal investigator for funded research efforts

Interested Candidates should submit a cover letter describing their interest in the position and career goals, a CV including publication list, and names & contact information of up to three references.

This position is funded for six months from the date of hire with the possibility of renewal pending available funding and satisfactory performance.

The position will be available July 1, 2025 and will remain open until filled. Salary will be commensurate with education andexperience.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

BENEFITS

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

For more detailed information, please visit ourBenefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging in all its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports both broad and specific equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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