Senior Researcher in Earth and Mars atmospheric retrievals

The National Space Science and Technology Center (NSSTC) at UAE University (UAEU) in Al Ain, UAE invites applications for a Senior Researcher in Earth and Mars atmospheric retrievals. The anticipated start date is likely to be sometime during late Fall 2020. The UAE is developing a research base in space science, and the main goal of this position is to build local expertise in atmospheric retrievals. This will maximise the scientific return from the Emirates Mars Mission (EMM), prepare Emirati researchers for future missions, and familiarise them with the tools and principles used in atmospheric remote sensing. We seek an experienced scientist with demonstrated expertise and experience in UV/visible/IR and thermal IR/microwave atmospheric retrievals from passive remote sensing instruments to lead this effort. The main objectives are: 1 - Develop algorithms to convert EMM calibrated spectra into atmospheric quantities, using EMM’s publicly available dataset, involving students and junior researchers at all stages of the process. 2 - Conduct research studying some aspect of the lower Martian atmosphere based on these data products. 3 - Contribute to NSSTC Earth observation research where atmospheric retrievals are required. In particular, the hyperspectral 813 satellite is in development at NSSTC for a 2024 launch. 813 will observe Earth in reflected solar radiation in 200 spectral bands between 400-2500 nm. The full job description at Jobs @ UAEU describes the specific tasks required for objective (1). We are recruiting a Postdoctoral Fellow who will assist with these tasks, and the Senior Researcher will supervise their work. A short research proposal should be included that describes how the Senior Researcher will address items (2) and (3) above. Once in post, we anticipate they will apply for funding to expand their research program, and supervise research assistants, students, and postdoctoral researchers.