Research Scientist - Virginia Department of Human Resource Management : Job Details

The primary purpose of the position is to lead Research in Air Quality Forecasting and Modeling. The Research Scientist engages in designing, implementing, and managing research projects focused on regional and urban-scale air quality forecasting by developing Advanced ML/AI Models for Air Quality Applications. The main goal is to improve prediction accuracy and computational efficiency through fine-resolution data fusion, bias correction, and model surrogate development. This position is also responsible to disseminate scientific findings through publications in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals in atmospheric science, environmental engineering, and presentations at national and international scientific conferences, workshops, and stakeholder meetings.

Responsibilities:

• Designs, implements, and manages research projects focused on regional and urban-scale air quality forecasting;
• Collaborates with multi-disciplinary teams to integrate modeling outputs into operational decision-making systems.

• Applies machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to enhance traditional chemical transport modeling systems;
• Improves prediction accuracy and computational efficiency through fine-resolution data fusion, bias correction, and model surrogate development;
• Conducts experiments comparing AI-enhanced models with conventional methods and validates performance under various atmospheric scenarios

• Prepares manuscripts for submission to high-impact, peer-reviewed journals in atmospheric science, environmental engineering, or AI applications;
• Presents research findings at national and international scientific conferences, workshops, and stakeholder meetings; and
• Contributes to proposal development for external research funding, including NSF, NOAA, NASA, and EPA.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience;
• Considerable experience (generally 5 years or longer) in atmospheric sciences; and
• Knowledge of Fortran, Python, R, Database (Postgres, MySQL, SQLite), Shell program language skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of Community Multiscale Air Quality (CMAQ) program, Sparse Matrix Operator Kerner Emissions (SMOKE) program, Data Assimilation, Surrogate Tools, and other modeling skillsets.

Instructions to Applicants:

For full consideration, applicants must apply for the Research Scientist at . Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a cover letter and CV for review.

Posting Open Date: May 16, 2025

For Full Consideration, Apply by: May 30, 2025

Open Until Filled: Yes

Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer