Research Assistant - 136213

The Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes (CW3E) is leading the development and implementation of new research and applications capabilities focused on extreme weather and climate events in the Western US. CW3E is developing and implementing weather and climate observations, numerical modeling, machine learning algorithms, and decision support tools focused on atmospheric, land-surface, and hydrologic conditions related to extreme weather events and their impacts. CW3E is an interface between UCSD departments, other universities, and local, state, and federal agencies in the operation, utilization and expansion of a new state-of-the-art weather observing network recently deployed in California. Efforts undertaken by the Center include scientific research, technology development, numerical and neural network model development and testing, and the development/deployment of smart tools that aid decision makers affected by extreme weather, water, and climate events. A key activity of the Center is the development of methods and systems to aid reservoir operations for flood control, water supply, and sustainable ecosystems. CW3E is a focus of national andinternational research on atmospheric rivers (ARs).

Under direct supervision, the Research Assistant will play a key role in supporting the Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes (CW3E), with a primary focus on the Atmospheric River Reconnaissance (AR Recon) program. This position combines scientific research support, operational coordination, and administrative tasks, with majority of the role dedicated to AR Recon research activities.

As part of the Flight Track Coordination team, the Research Assistant will collaborate closely with Flight Directors from the U.S. Air Force and NOAA to help implement flight plans developed by the Principal Investigator and project leads. This includes supporting the testing of research instruments, converting scientific data into operational flight tracks, preparing mission-critical data products, and assisting with real-time coordination during the AR Recon season.

In addition to AR Recon responsibilities, the Research Assistant will contribute to general research efforts across CW3E by supporting data analysis, visualization, and reporting under the guidance of senior researchers. The role also involves some assisting with administrative functions, including conference support, meeting logistics, and travel processing through systems such as Concur. The position objective is to engage with a dynamic research environment focused on advancing understanding of extreme weather and water events on the U.S. West Coast.

• Knowledge of research functions and ability to perform research analysis duties.

• Skills in statistical analysis, systems programming, and database design to perform research analysis duties.

• Effective time management and project completion skills.

• Excellent organization skills and attention to detail.

• Competence in computational tasks, including data support, using Microsoft Office or similar tools.

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

• Excellent and effective written and oral communication skills. Ability to communicate effectively with others in a constructive, professional and pleasant manner.

• Ability to interact effectively, using tact and diplomacy, with diverse personalities.

• Strong organizational and record-keeping skills, with the ability to maintain detailed documentation of missions and other data collection efforts.

• Occasional evenings and weekends may be required.

• Must be willing and able to travel.

• Must be willing to work with hazardous materials.

• Must be flexible to work between 50% and 100% time depending on the season and program needs.

• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.

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