Emissions Modeling Specialist

The Benioff Ocean Science Laboratory (BOSL) is an applied research center at the University of California Santa Barbara’s Marine Science Institute. BOSL leverages marine science and technology to develop tangible solutions to ocean problems.

We are seeking a highly motivated Emissions Modeling Specialist to adapt and enhance an existing emissions model to examine maritime shipping emissions at a global scale. The role involves refining and validating the modeling approach, producing comprehensive emissions estimates, and communicating findings through white papers, policy briefs, data visualizations, and media outreach to support stakeholder engagement and inform policy discussions.

• Adapt, enhance, and validate an existing bottom‑up/activity‑based emissions model to examine maritime shipping emissions at a global scale. See study
• Develop deliverables, including white papers, policy briefs, data visualizations, and interactive web‑based tools, to communicate findings to technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Build and maintain relationships with research partners and data providers to ensure access to high‑quality vessel activity, fleet characteristics, and emissions data.
• Engage with stakeholders, including the shipping industry, international regulatory bodies (e.g., International Maritime Organization), and other relevant partners.

• To hold a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, atmospheric science, marine science, data science, or a related field and to have at least three years of relevant experience.
• OR hold a master’s degree in one of the above fields at the time of application.

• Employment at the Associate Specialist level may be considered for applicants with a master’s degree or for those with at least five years of experience demonstrating expertise in a relevant area.

• Experience with emissions modeling (greenhouse gases and air pollutants) or transportation modeling, with knowledge of maritime shipping or transportation sectors preferred.
• Excellent quantitative and data analysis skills, including programming in R, SQL, Python, or similar, and proficiency in using Git Hub and other data management tools.
• Experience working with large‑scale vessel tracking data (e.g., AIS data), ship registries, or transportation datasets.
• Experience summarizing and visualizing data in accessible and compelling formats for non‑technical audiences.
• Experience developing white papers, policy briefs, technical reports, or peer‑reviewed scientific publications.
• Proven record of independently leading research projects.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with government, industry, and non‑governmental organizations.

• Salary range: $64,100 to $90,300 per year (at 100% time)
• Percent time: 100%
• Anticipated start: Negotiable; ideally March 2026
• Position duration: One‑year initial appointment
• Location: Santa Barbara, CA – UCSB
• Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
• Employment type: Full‑time

• Curriculum Vitae – most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter – 1–2 pages, summarizing relevant accomplishments, professional aspirations, and demonstrated service to the professional and/or academic community.

• Open date: December 19, 2025
• Review date: Monday, Jan 19, 2026 at 11:59 pm (Pacific Time)
• Final date: Tuesday, Jun 30, 2026 at 11:59 pm (Pacific Time)

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or any other protected status under state or federal law.

Contact: lswanson

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