Job Details

Position: Postdoctoral Research Associate – Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences
Type: Full-Time / Research Faculty
Salary: $71,000 per year
Location: Boulder, Colorado (in-office)
Posted: 11/18/2025
Application Deadline: 12/08/2025
Category: Geology, Earth Sciences, and Oceanography
Requisition Number: 68594

Position Overview

The Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences (ATOC) at the University of Colorado Boulder seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate to develop and evaluate machine learning (ML) emulators of climate model components. The focus is on generalization across diverse climate scenarios and integrating ML with physics-based dynamic models.

Key Responsibilities

• Implement and test coupled atmospheric-ocean emulator systems (e.g., CAMulator, Sumadra).

• Compare emulator results against physics-based ocean models (e.g., POP2) to assess biases.

• Develop innovative ML techniques for Earth system modeling.

• Contribute to the integration of hybrid ML-physics systems.

• Produce open-source tools and peer-reviewed publications aligned with departmental goals.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Atmospheric Science, Oceanic Science, or Computer Science with ML experience.

• Strong research experience in climate modeling, ML applications, or Earth system simulations.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with hybrid ML-physics systems or Earth system emulators.

• Proven record of research publications in relevant fields.

Employment Details

• Full-time, in-person position in Boulder, CO.

• Pre-employment background checks may be conducted.

• Application materials must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs (email submissions not accepted).

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit:

• Current resume/CV

• Cover letter addressed to the Search Committee highlighting qualifications and interest

• Non-confidential reference letter(s)

• Optional: Transcript or proof of degree (including translation if degree obtained outside the U.S.)

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and retirement plans

• Generous paid time off

• Tuition assistance for employees and dependents

• ECO Pass for local transit

• Access to world-class academic and outdoor recreational opportunities in Boulder

Equal Opportunity Statement

CU Boulder is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws. Applicants may redact age-identifying information in application materials.