Modeling and Analysis of Upper Atmospheric Composition and Related Processes

Modeling and Analysis of Upper Atmospheric Composition and Related Processes

Organization: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Reference Code: 0081-NPP-MAR
26-ARC-Earth Sci

How to Apply: All applications must be submitted in Zintellect. Please visit the NASA Postdoctoral Program website for application instructions and requirements:

How to Apply

| NASA Postdoctoral Program (orau.org)

Final date to receive applications: 3/1/2026 6:00:59 PM Eastern Time Zone

The NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) offers unique research opportunities to highly‑talented scientists to engage in ongoing NASA research projects at a NASA Center, NASA Headquarters, or at a NASA‑affiliated research institute. These one‑to‑three‑year fellowships are competitive and are designed to advance NASA’s missions in space science, Earth science, aeronautics, space operations, exploration systems, and astrobiology.

The Atmospheric Dynamics group in the Atmospheric Sciences Branch of the Earth Science Division at NASA Ames Research Center focuses on research of the upper atmosphere—mainly the upper troposphere and stratosphere (UT/S)—and its role in climate. We use a combination of satellite data, high‑altitude aircraft measurements, and models to investigate variations in and processes that impact clouds, aerosols, and trace gases in the UT/S.

In particular, the relationship between atmospheric deep convection, clouds, and water vapor in the tropical upper troposphere and lower stratosphere is a key topic under investigation. The objective of our research is to improve our ability to predict how future changes in climate will affect atmospheric composition (and vice versa).

We also have a long history of providing meteorological and flight planning support for NASA airborne missions dating back to the 1980s. Our most recent involvement is participation in NASA campaigns that target the summer monsoons—Dynamics and Chemistry of the Summer Stratosphere (DCOTSS) and Asian Summer Monsoon Chemical and Climate Impact Project (ACCLIP). High‑resolution temporal and spatial measurements of atmospheric composition obtained from airborne campaigns are critical for process‑level studies and for validating satellites and models.

The prospective candidate will conduct research that advances our understanding of UT/S composition and related processes. Candidates with interest in the impact of summer monsoon systems on upper atmospheric composition are especially encouraged to apply at this time. Experience with atmospheric models is advantageous. The prospective candidate may be involved in forecasting and flight planning for NASA airborne missions; occasional deployment travel may be necessary.

Conduct research to advance our understanding of upper atmospheric composition and related processes; develop and use atmospheric models; analyze satellite and aircraft data; contribute to NASA mission flight planning and forecasting; collaborate with interdisciplinary teams; prepare scientific manuscripts and reports; present findings at conferences and internal meetings.

• Ph.D. in a physical science—preferably Chemistry, Physics, or Atmospheric Sciences—completed within the last X years.
• Experience working with atmospheric data and/or models.
• Strong analytical skills and computer programming ability (e.g., Python, IDL, Fortran).
• Good written and verbal communication skills.

Ames Research Center, Moffet Field, California

Earth Science

Rei Ueyama
rei.ueyama
(650) 604‑3903

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://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Eligibility is currently open to:

• 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
  1) a valid EAD card and
  2) I‑485 or I‑589 forms pending.

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