Staff Careers

The Research Associate I, Step 1, will support the Office of Data Science and Informatics (ODSI) within the Earth Systems Science Center. This role focuses on advancing data science, informatics, and IT capabilities to support NASA Earth science data management, access, and dissemination.

This role is suited for candidates with a foundational background in atmospheric science who can apply disciplined analytical thinking, communicate effectively, and contribute to interdisciplinary efforts involving Earth science data and informatics systems.

ODSI evaluates trends across data science and informatics communities to inform strategic direction and develop effective, scalable solutions. The office also provides a user-centered perspective on how Earth science data are represented, communicated, and utilized. The position contributes to cross-disciplinary collaboration aimed at improving all phases of the Earth science data lifecycle, including policy, engineering, workflows, and information delivery.

Duties / Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with various stakeholders to define and implement data management strategies, policies, and governance frameworks.
• Establish and monitor data standards, naming conventions, and data classification frameworks.
• Conduct data curation assessments to understand the quality, completeness, and accuracy of data assets.
• Support the development of data governance training programs to increase data literacy and educate stakeholders on data management practices.
• Participate in the development of scientific data management policies, standards, and best practices.
• Help to identify, report, analyze, and resolve data issues related to uniqueness, integrity, accuracy, consistency, and completeness.

• Bachelor’s degree in Atmospheric Science or a closely related field.
• 0-3 months of full-time verifiable work experience.
• Demonstrated ability to collect and interpret weather and atmospheric data.
• Familiarity with satellite remote sensing datasets and their applications.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to make sound decisions based on available data.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with an emphasis on clarity and precision.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and within a team environment.

• Experience working with geospatial or environmental data systems.
• Familiarity with basic data analysis tools or programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or similar).
• Exposure to operational forecasting, environmental monitoring, or applied atmospheric research.

$48,375