Ocean Modeling and Data Analysis

ORAU; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

ORAU is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar for the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California. This role involves innovative ocean modeling and studying ocean salinity and freshwater flux using satellite data. Preferred candidates will have a recent Ph.D. in oceanography or related fields, along with skills in Unix/Linux and Matlab. The position offers the chance to work closely with the Earth Science group and contribute to impactful research in ocean studies. Applications from U.S. Citizens and Legal Permanent Residents are welcome.

Qualifications

• Recent Ph.D. in a related field.
• Skills in Unix/Linux, Matlab, and parallel computing.
• Experience with ROMS is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Study ocean salinity and freshwater flux using satellite data and models.
• Analyze satellite data such as ocean surface salinity, GRACE ocean-bottom-pressure, and altimetry sea-level.
• Improve understanding of near-surface salinity stratification and river runoffs through modeling.

Skills

Unix/Linux

Matlab

Parallel computing

Experience with ROMS

Proficiency in English

Education

Recent Ph.D. in oceanography, computational fluid dynamics, or a related field

Job description

Organization

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Reference Code

0062-NPP-NOV26-JPL-EarthSci

Application Deadline

11/1/2026 6:00:59 PM Eastern Time Zone

Description

Postdoctoral Scholar Position – Innovative Ocean Modeling for Satellite Ocean Salinity / Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), California Institute of Technology (Caltech). The California Institute of Technology Postdoctoral Scholars Program at JPL invites applications for a postdoctoral scholar position at the Ocean Circulation Group. The research will focus on studying ocean salinity and freshwater flux. Analyzing satellite data (e.g., ocean surface salinity, GRACE ocean‑bottom‑pressure, and altimetry sea‑level) and model results is necessary. The modeling effort aims to improve understanding of near‑surface salinity stratification and river runoffs. Specific scientific focus will depend upon the qualifications and interests of the incumbent.

Dr. Y. Tony Song, Research Scientist in JPL's Earth Science Section, will serve as the JPL postdoctoral advisor to the selected candidate. The appointee will be guided by the JPL advisor to ensure that the research work results in publications in the open literature.

Responsibilities

• Study ocean salinity and freshwater flux using satellite data and models.
• Analyze satellite data such as ocean surface salinity, GRACE ocean‑bottom‑pressure, and altimetry sea‑level.
• Improve the understanding of near‑surface salinity stratification and river runoffs through modeling.

Qualifications

• Recent Ph.D. in oceanography, computational fluid dynamics, or a related field.
• Skills in Unix/Linux, Matlab, and parallel computing.
• Prior experience with community user models, particularly ROMS, is a plus.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English.

Location

Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California

Field of Science

Earth Science

Advisors

Y. Tony Song ([e-mail], [phone])

Eligibility

Applications with citizens from Designated Countries will not be accepted at this time, unless they are Legal Permanent Residents of the United States. A complete list of Designated Countries can be found at https://www.nasa.gov/oiir/export-control.

• U.S. Citizens
• U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR)
• Foreign Nationals eligible for an Exchange Visitor J‑1 visa status
• Applicants for LPR, asylees, or refugees in the U.S. at the time of application with a valid EAD card and I‑485 or I‑589 forms in pending status

Eligibility Requirements

• Doctoral Degree

Contact

Questions about this opportunity? Please email [e-mail]. Point of Contact: Mikeala