New

CIRES/ CSL Temporary Researcher, Lidar Scientist

University of Colorado
vacation time, sick time
United States, Colorado, Boulder
Sep 23, 2026
Requisition Number: 74972 Location: Boulder, Colorado City Boulder State Colorado Employment Type: Research Faculty Schedule: Part-Time Posting Close Date: 25-Sep-2026 Date Posted: 23-Sep-2026 Close All Job Summary The Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES) at the University of Colorado Boulder encourages applications for Temporary Researcher within NOAA's Chemical Sciences Laboratory (CSL). The successful candidate will work within the Atmospheric Remote Sensing programs alongside a team of federal and university employees engaged in research investigating tropospheric ozone, stratospheric intrusions, and their impacts on regional air quality. A primary responsibility of this role will be leading the synthesis of complex field campaign datasets and authoring high-impact, peer-reviewed scientific publications. Our group consists of scientists and researchers at all stages of their careers working together to analyze remote sensing data, evaluate atmospheric transport models, and interpret the photochemistry driving ozone production. We are looking for an expert with an extensive, proven track record of writing and publishing peer-reviewed research papers on atmospheric composition, particularly involving ozone lidar networks or aircraft-based observations. A Ph.D. in Atmospheric Science, Chemistry, or a closely related field is highly preferred. CSL has a highly collaborative work culture, and we are looking for a candidate who actively subscribes to this philosophy. CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Who We Are At CIRES, the Cooperative Institute for Research In Environmental Sciences, more than 900 people work to understand the dynamic Earth system, including people's relationship with the planet. An institute at the University of Colorado Boulder, we have partnered with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) since 1967. Our areas of expertise include weather and climate, wildfire and water, changes at Earth's poles, air quality and atmospheric chemistry, water resources, solid Earth sciences, and more. Our researchers work in 10 CU Boulder departments and eight NOAA laboratories and centers. NOAA's Chemical Sciences Laboratory (CSL) is a world leader in atmospheric chemistry and composition, developing and deploying advanced technologies to ensure NOAA remains at the forefront in protecting lives, property, and livelihoods of the American people. https://csl.noaa.gov/ What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be Analyze and interpret lidar measurements and use data for various boundary layer research studies including air quality, wildfires, and climate, as well as measurement studies designed to inform numerical model improvement efforts. Participate in the planning of group short- and long-term research strategies. Present results at scientific meetings or publish them in peer-reviewed literature. What You Should Know This appointment is not eligible for vacation leave, holidays, annual merit pay increases, nor employee health, retirement, or related benefits, except those required by law. This appointment will accrue 0.034 hours of sick leave for every hour worked. The hours for this position may vary and are not guaranteed. This temporary position cannot extend past a maximum of 12 months. The targeted start date for the appointment is October 1, 2026. This position will be rostered in CIRES at the University of Colorado Boulder but will be physically situated in the David Skaggs Research Center, 325 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80305, a federal campus. If you are the selected finalist you will be required to pass a federal laboratory background clearance for site access. Non-US citizens without green cards may have limited building access, and may require an escort in the building. Contact Michael Zucker (michael.zucker@colorado.edu) with any questions This position can accommodate a hybrid work modality. What We Can Offer The hourly rate for this position ranges from $48.56 - $64.42 per hour. Salary is commensurate with education and experience. Benefits Temporary positions at the University of Colorado are not benefits-eligible, however, all positions are eligible for paid sick leave. Be Statements Be driven. Be successful. Be Boulder. What We Require A Ph.D. in physics, chemistry, meteorology, atmospheric science, environmental engineering, or a closely related field. Experience in experimental physical/atmospheric sciences. Experience in data analysis and programming (such as MATLAB, IDL, or other image visualization software). What You Will Need Demonstrated ability to perform boundary layer research, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and present at national/international conferences. The ability to work in a team and participate in the development of original research projects. Ability to work in a collaborative environment with a diverse group of scientists. Ability to be self-driven and meet deadlines. What We Would Like You to Have Experience with ozone and/or Doppler lidars. Experience working with lidar data. A record demonstrating the ability to communicate science through publication and conference presentations. Special Instructions To apply, please submit the following materials: Resume/CV. If you are identified as a finalist, the search committee will request one letter recommendation at a later time. 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 as an optional attachment. Please apply by September 25, 2026 for consideration. Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs.