Description

Postdoctoral Research Associate

D-26-AOS-00001 | Research | Atmospheric & Oceanic Sciences

The Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences Program at Princeton University, in association with NOAA's Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (GFDL), seeks a postdoctoral or more senior research scientist to lead an investigation exploring the ability of recently developed global earth system models to simulate coastal sea level across sub-annual timescales.

This work will leverage a suite of coupled models in the study of the representation of coastal sea level and the factors that influence mean state and time-varying biases. Recent work has revealed connections between coastal sea level and offshore ocean circulation [Wang et al., 2024; Steinberg et al., 2024; Feng et al., 2025], as well as the importance of model horizontal resolution in the representation of continental shelf and slope flows [Li et al., 2022].

The successful applicant for this position will work to develop a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing coastal sea level variability, especially those associated with model biases, and identify sources of predictability. The project will involve; 1) rigorous interrogation of NOAA GFDL's CM4X simulation output with respect to coastal sea level variability and relevant physical processes (e.g. ocean warming and mass redistribution); 2) conducting sensitivity analyses to identify the roles played by model forcing, horizontal resolution, and ocean-physics representation in contributing to mean state biases and their non-stationarity; 3) assessing local and remote contributions from large-scale climate modes to coastal sea level variability; 4) collaborating with others at NOAA's Physical Sciences Laboratory and Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services to develop and enhance statistical assessments of coastal sea level representation.

The overall goal is to partition short-term sea level variability and prediction biases into parts attributable to mean state bias, longer-term trend errors, internal variability relating to ocean circulation and its representation, and external forcings. The postdoc will be expected to collaborate with members of the GFDL Ocean and Cryosphere Division and with scientists at NOAA OAR's Physical Sciences Laboratory who are also working on bias assessment and attribution.

In addition to a quantitative background, the selected candidate will ideally have one or more of the following attributes; a) familiarity with the physical processes contributing to sea level change; b) experience with ocean and/or earth system modeling; c) experience with Python and scientific data analysis.

Candidates must have a Ph.D. or expect to complete a Ph.D. for an anticipated start date by May 2026. The term of appointment is based on rank. Positions at the postdoctoral rank are for one year with the possibility of renewal pending satisfactory performance and continued funding; those hired at more senior ranks may have multi-year appointments. Complete applications, including a cover letter, CV, publication list, research statement (no more than 2 pages incl. references), and 3 letters of recommendation should be submitted by January 1, 2026, 11:59 pm EST for full consideration.

Princeton is interested in candidates who, through their research, will contribute to the multiplicity and excellence of the academic community. Applicants should apply online at https://www.princeton.edu/acad-positions/position/40621. For additional information, contact Dr. Jacob Steinberg (jacob.steinberg@noaa.gov), Dr. John Krasting (john.krasting@noaa.gov) or Dr. Alistair Adcroft (aadcroft@princeton.edu).

The work location for this position is in-person on campus at Princeton University. This position is subject to Princeton University's background check policy which will include meeting the security requirements for accessing the NOAA Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory.

Expected Salary Range: $67,000 - $77,000

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

Requisition No: D-26-AOS-00001

*Required information is denoted with an asterisk.

How to Apply

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For more information send an email to apval@princeton.edu
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