CIRES/ Karnauskas Research Group, Post-Doctoral Associate in Climate Applications to Vector-Borne Disease
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Job Summary
The Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES) at the University of Colorado at Boulder (CU Boulder) encourages applications for a Post-Doctoral Associate in Climate Applications to Vector-Borne Disease in Boulder, Colorado. The successful candidate will work with colleagues engaged in researching the impacts of weather/climate on West Nile virus (WNV) in the United States. Recent research has shown that, at large spatial scales, incorporating relationships derived from historical climate data and neuroinvasive WNV case data into predictive models have the potential to improve forecasts of annual WNV disease counts.
We are looking to expand on that research to improve those relationships and see if such WNV forecasts can be made in real time, with imperfect seasonal prediction models. Key colleagues have strong backgrounds in atmospheric science, and external research partners have strong backgrounds in public health and epidemiology. We have a highly collaborative work culture, and we are looking for a candidate who actively subscribes to this philosophy. Successful candidates will demonstrate competency and sensitivity in working with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Who We Are
CIRES is an internationally recognized leader in innovative environmental science and research and is located at the University of Colorado Boulder. At CIRES, more than 950 environmental science professionals work to understand the dynamic Earth system, including people’s relationship with the planet. CIRES has partnered with NOAA since 1967, and our areas of expertise include weather and climate, changes at Earth’s poles, air quality and atmospheric chemistry, water resources, solid Earth sciences, and more. Our vision is to be instrumental in ensuring a sustainable future environment by advancing scientific and societal understanding of the Earth system.
What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be
- Work with gridded datasets to establish relationships between climate and WNV. (40%)
- Apply established relationships to climate forecast models (lead times out to 1 year) to provide (pseudo) real-time WNV forecasts. (35%)
- Investigate how WNV in the United States might change in a changing climate (10%)
- Collaborate with subject matter experts in both climate and public health to maintain connections between these two communities. (7%)
- Present results in webinars, conferences, and peer-reviewed literature. (5%)
- Performs other relevant duties as necessary. (3%)
What You Should Know
- This is a two-year position with the possibility of extension based on performance and the availability of funding.
- Although a hybrid work modality is preferred, this position can accommodate a 100% in person, hybrid, or fully remote modality.
- For an in person or hybrid modality, the primary work location (office) will be on the East Campus of CU Boulder. Occasional local travel (at least twice per year) to visit collaborators at NOAA in Boulder, and CDC in Fort Collins, would be expected.
- Regardless of the modality negotiated, work hours are flexible within reasonable limits, with the expectation of a full 8-hour workday overlapping substantially with the standard hours of 9-5 PM Mountain Time.
What We Can Offer
- CIRES offers a generous and comprehensive compensation package.
- The annual hiring salary range for this position is $65,000 - $70,000.
- Salary is commensurate with education and experience and determined based on our CIRES internal career track classification.
- Some relocation funds are available for this position to off-set moving expenses following CIRES and the University of Colorado’s relocation processes and procedures.
- This position can offer a hybrid or fully remote work modality. Please see details in the “What You Should Know” section.
- CIRES and the University of Colorado Boulder offer a robust training curriculum, opportunities for professional development and a Mentorship Program.
- Boulder is a vibrant community with access to mountain parks, dog parks, miles of trails, rivers, lakes, cafes, restaurants, boutiques, theaters, museums, and sports venues. Boulder was recently ranked as one of the top places to live in the U.S. by U.S. News.
- As an employee at CU Boulder, you receive a pass allowing free access to the regional public transit system, which is an outstanding network of buses and light rail systems that provide service within Boulder and connect to Denver, the Denver airport, and surrounding communities.
Benefits
What We Require
- A Ph.D. in climate-related science, or in public health/epidemiology (with substantial experience in applying climate data), or a similar relevant field of study is required.
- Minimum experience: none beyond PhD is required.
What You Will Need
- Capability to work with gridded datasets (e.g., climate data over the United States) for both processing and visualization.
- Fluency in programming languages such as Python, R, MATLAB, or others that can easily process gridded data.
- Ability to use word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation slide software (e.g., Microsoft Office, Excel, PowerPoint).
- A strong understanding of climate variables.
- Familiarity with predictive models (of weather, climate, and/or disease).
- Ability and desire to contribute to a collaborative and diverse work environment.
- Ability to consistently promote, support, work, and act in a manner in support of CIRES’ vision, mission, and values.
- Ability to manage time and prioritize tasks.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
What We Would Like You to Have
Please note that while the position details both required and preferred skills and experience, we invite applicants to apply even if they do not have the preferred skills and experience outlined in this section. If you meet the requirements and have passion for the work, you are encouraged to apply. We encourage on the job training for any additional skills or knowledge that become relevant to the position.
- Experience at the intersection of climate and public health
- Experience with weather and climate models
- A basic understanding of vector-borne disease
Special Instructions
To apply please submit the following materials with your application:
- Resume or CV;
- Cover letter addressed to the Search Committee briefly describing your qualifications, professional goals, and specific interest in this position;
- Although not needed at the time of application, please be ready to submit contact information for 3 professional references.
- Applications received before January 2, 2025 will receive full consideration, and the position will remain open until finalists have been identified.
If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources department using an approved online vendor. If your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit a translated version (if applicable) as an optional attachment.
Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs.
Posting Contact Information
Posting Contact Name: Benjamin Green
Posting Contact Email: ben.green@noaa.gov