Research Technical Assistant

Department
 

PSD Geophysical Sciences: Administration and Staff

About the Department
 

The Department of the Geophysical Sciences provides a vibrant venue in which scientists carry out research across several broad subject areas that span the past, present, and future evolution of the Earth, its life, and its cosmic environment. We pride ourselves in the innovative and interdisciplinary research of highly accomplished faculty, postdocs, graduate students, and undergraduates, all of whom push the boundaries of their respective fields. The Department supports a Ph.D. program in Geophysical Sciences while offering undergraduate degrees in both Geophysical Sciences and Environmental Science which allow students to discover, learn, and share knowledge about the natural processes that have and continue to shape our world and other planetary bodies. The Department is committed to fostering an environment where individuals from all backgrounds can grow and become the unique scientists they wish to be.

Job Summary
 

The PI’s research centers around understanding the changing frequency and magnitude of extreme weather. This requires the processing of a large volume of observational data. The nature of the job requires a dedicated research staff who has a deep understanding of geophysical fluid dynamics and diagnostic tool.
The person hired as the research staff will assist PI’s research in three major areas.
Build and maintain numerical codes that diagnose and predict atmospheric dynamics and thermodynamics associated with extreme heat events.
Perform statistical analysis of the past events sampled from 1979-present gridded meteorological data and curate the analysis products.
Conduct supervised research based on the analyzed data and publish the results (in 6-12 months).

Responsibilities

• At the beginning of each month submit a short plan/timeline for the work performed.  
• Meet with PI weekly for about an hour (or more frequently if needed) to report/discuss progress informally.
• At the end of each month review the progress and adjust the next month's research plan.
• Survey the latest literature on related topics and discuss it with PI and his research group, which meets once every two weeks.
• Present the research results at AGU fall meeting (December 2022, Chicago).
• Take the lead in writing research article(s) on the results for publications in reputable journals
• This job provides technical and administrative support in a laboratory environment performing basic laboratory techniques, research, and analysis under direction.
• Provides routine or standardized laboratory duties by collecting data in support of research projects under direct supervision.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications
 

Education:

Minimum requirements include vocational training, apprenticeships or the equivalent experience in related field (not typically required to have a four-year degree).

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Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

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Certifications:

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Preferred Competencies

• Considerable skill in working both independently and as a team member.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• Ability to take initiative and organize and complete projects with minimal supervision.
• Ability to maintain a calm and courteous demeanor and to work productively despite the workload, competing priorities, complex problems, and tight deadlines.
• Ability to use appropriate resources to resolve an issue.

Working Conditions

• This is a term appointment with a 1-year duration.

Application Documents

• Resume (required)

When applying, the document(s) MUST  be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family
 

Research

Role Impact
 

Individual Contributor

FLSA Status
 

Non-Exempt

Pay Frequency
 

Biweekly

Scheduled Weekly Hours
 

37.5

Benefits Eligible
 

Yes

Requires Compliance with University Covid-19 Vaccination Requirement
 

Yes

Drug Test Required
 

No

Health Screen Required
 

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
 

No

Posting Statement
 

Employees must comply with the University’s COVID-19 vaccination requirements. More information about the requirements can be found on the University of Chicago Vaccination GoForward .
The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

 

Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

 

We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.

 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

 

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