CIRES / Chu Research Group, Postdoctoral Associate in Atmosphere-Space Lidar and Ionosphere-Thermosphere-Mesosphere Physics

CIRES / Chu Research Group, Postdoctoral Associate in Atmosphere-Space Lidar and Ionosphere-Thermosphere-Mesosphere Physics

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CIRES / Chu Research Group, Postdoctoral Associate in Atmosphere-Space Lidar and Ionosphere-Thermosphere-Mesosphere Physics

Requisition Number:

74034

Location:

Boulder, Colorado

City

Boulder

State

Colorado

Employment Type:

Research Faculty

Schedule:

Full-Time

Posting Close Date:

14-Aug-2026

Date Posted:

11-Aug-2026

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Job Summary

Job Summary

The Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES) at the University of Colorado Boulder encourages applications for a Postdoctoral Associate in the Chu Research Group. This role will conduct interdisciplinary research using advanced resonance-fluorescence lidar observations and physics-based numerical modeling to investigate thermosphere-ionosphere metal (TIMt) layers and the coupled ionosphere-thermosphere-mesosphere (ITM) system. This position supports the Chu Research Group's long-term observational programs at Boulder, Colorado and McMurdo Station, Antarctica, with the goal of advancing the fundamental understanding of plasma-neutral coupling, atmospheric dynamics, meteoric metal transport, and upper-atmospheric variability across multiple spatial and temporal scales.

This role will integrate long-term lidar observations with the development and application of regional TIMt models to investigate the physical processes governing metallic neutral and ion layers over both polar and midlatitude regions. Research activities will include scientific analysis of atmospheric observations, numerical model development, comparison with whole-atmosphere and ionospheric models, publication of results in leading peer-reviewed journals, presentation of research at national and international scientific conferences, and collaboration with researchers across the atmospheric and space science communities. The position also provides opportunities to contribute to the continued development of advanced lidar instrumentation, mentor graduate and undergraduate students, and participate in field campaigns and proposal development. This research directly contributes to improving our understanding of upper-atmospheric coupling processes and supports national priorities in atmospheric and space weather research.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Who We Are

Who We Are

CIRES is an internationally recognized leader in innovative environmental science and research and is located at the University of Colorado Boulder. At CIRES, more than 900 environmental science professionals work to understand the dynamic Earth system, including people's relationship with the planet. CIRES has partnered with NOAA since 1967, and our areas of expertise include weather and climate, changes at Earth's poles, air quality and atmospheric chemistry, water resources, solid Earth sciences, and more. Our vision is to be instrumental in ensuring a sustainable future environment by advancing scientific and societal understanding of the Earth system.

The Chu Research Group is an internationally recognized leader in the development and application of resonance-fluorescence lidar technologies for atmospheric and space physics research. The group pioneers advanced lidar instrumentation and long-term observational studies of the middle and upper atmosphere, providing unique measurements of temperature, winds, and meteoric metal species from the mesosphere to the lower thermosphere.

The group operates world-class lidar systems in Boulder, Colorado, and McMurdo Station, Antarctica, one of the longest-running resonance-fluorescence lidar programs in the Antarctic. These unique observational facilities enable investigations of atmospheric dynamics, plasma-neutral coupling, thermosphere-ionosphere-mesosphere (ITM) interactions, meteoric metal layers, gravity waves, tides, planetary waves, and long-term atmospheric variability across a wide range of latitudes.

Through the integration of innovative lidar technologies, long-term observations, numerical modeling, and interdisciplinary collaborations, the Chu Research Group advances the fundamental understanding of Earth's upper atmosphere and contributes to national and international efforts in atmospheric science, space weather research, and the development of next-generation remote sensing capabilities.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

• Conduct independent research on thermosphere-ionosphere metal (TIMt) layers, the coupled ionosphere-thermosphere-mesosphere (ITM) system, and their long-term changes and physical mechanisms using resonance-fluorescence lidar observations from Boulder, Colorado and McMurdo, Antarctica, numerical modeling, and interdisciplinary scientific analysis. Publish scientific findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at national and international conferences. (30%)
• Develop, improve, and apply physics-based regional TIMt models and integrate observational results with whole-atmosphere and ionospheric models to advance the understanding of upper-atmospheric processes. Publish scientific findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at national and international conferences. (30%)
• Contribute to the development, testing, deployment, and operation of advanced resonance-fluorescence lidar systems and to field campaigns, support field campaigns, and maintain the Golden Lidar Facility. (20%)
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students and contribute to future research proposals. (15%)
• Outreach activities and perform other relevant duties as necessary (5%).

What You Should Know

What You Should Know

• This is a one-year position with the possibility of extension based on the availability of funding.
• This position does not offer visa sponsorship. Candidates must be able to start work on a full-time basis by September 1, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.
• The position supports long-term lidar research programs at Boulder, Colorado, and McMurdo Station, Antarctica. Opportunities may exist to participate in field campaigns or instrument deployment at McMurdo Station, subject to project needs, funding availability, and successful completion of the National Science Foundation Antarctic medical and deployment requirements.
• The position involves collaboration with researchers at national laboratories, universities, and international institutions. Occasional domestic and international travel to scientific conferences and project meetings is expected.
• A hybrid work arrangement may be available in accordance with CIRES and University of Colorado policies; however, regular in-person participation is expected to support research activities, instrument development, and collaboration within the Chu Research Group.

What We Can Offer

What We Can Offer

• CIRES offers a generous compensation package.
• The annual hiring salary range for this position is $65,000 - $66,000. Salary is commensurate with education and experience and determined based on CIRES internal career track classification.
• This position can accommodate a hybrid work modality.
• CIRES and the University of Colorado Boulder offer a robust training curriculum, opportunities for professional development, and a Mentorship Program.
• Boulder is a vibrant community with access to mountain parks, dog parks, miles of trails, rivers, lakes, cafes, restaurants, boutiques, theaters, museums, and sports venues.
• As an employee at CU Boulder, you receive a pass allowing free access to the regional public transit system, which is an outstanding network of buses and light rail systems that provide service within Boulder and connect to Denver, the Denver airport, and surrounding communities.

Benefits

Benefits

At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County's largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.

Be Statements

Be Statements

Be curious. Be professional. Be Boulder.

What We Require

What We Require

• A Ph.D. in Atmospheric Science, Space Physics, Physics, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Geophysics, or a closely related field. Candidates who will have completed all degree requirements before the anticipated start date will also be considered.
• Demonstrated research experience in atmospheric and space science, including one or more of the following areas: Upper atmospheric physics, ionospheric physics, atmospheric dynamics, atmospheric remote sensing, meteoric metal layers, or related fields.
• Experience with scientific programming and quantitative data analysis using MATLAB, Python, or other comparable scientific programming languages.
• Experience analyzing large scientific datasets and/or developing physics-based numerical models relevant to atmospheric or space science research.
• Demonstrated record of publishing scientific research in peer-reviewed journals and the ability to communicate research effectively through scientific writing and presentations.
• Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment while also conducting independent scientific research.

What You Will Need

What You Will Need

• Strong knowledge of atmospheric and space physics, including the coupled ionosphere-thermosphere-mesosphere (ITM) system and the physical processes governing upper-atmospheric dynamics.
• Expertise in scientific programming and data analysis, including MATLAB, Python, or comparable programming languages for processing, visualization, and interpretation of large scientific datasets.
• Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment while also conducting independent scientific research.
• Strong quantitative and analytical problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex observational and numerical modeling results.
• Ability to conduct independent research while effectively collaborating within interdisciplinary research teams and contributing to shared scientific objectives.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare scientific publications, technical reports, research proposals, and conference presentations.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple research activities, meet project deadlines, and maintain high scientific standards.
• Commitment to mentorship, teamwork, and an inclusive research environment, while supporting graduate and undergraduate researchers and contributing positively to the Chu Research Group.

What We Would Like You to Have

What We Would Like You to Have

Please note that while the position details both required and preferred skills and experience, we invite applicants to apply even if they do not have the preferred skills and experience outlined in this section. If you meet the requirements and have passion for the work, you are encouraged to apply. We encourage on the job training for any additional skills or knowledge that become relevant to the position.

• Experience with resonance-fluorescence lidar systems, including atmospheric observations, instrument operation, or lidar data analysis.
• Familiarity with long-term resonance-fluorescence lidar observations and the analysis of thermosphere-ionosphere metal layers and meteoric metal layer datasets collected at Boulder, Colorado, and McMurdo Station, Antarctica.
• Research experience related to thermosphere-ionosphere-mesosphere (ITM) coupling, upper-atmospheric dynamics, plasma-neutral interactions, meteoric metal layers, or atmospheric remote sensing.
• Experience developing or applying regional or global atmospheric and ionospheric models, such as WACCM-X, TIEGCM, WAM-IPE, or similar physics-based numerical models.
• Experience integrating observations with numerical simulations to investigate atmospheric or space physics processes.
• Experience participating in field campaigns, operating atmospheric instrumentation, or supporting remote observation facilities, particularly in polar or other challenging environments.
• Experience mentoring students, contributing to interdisciplinary collaborations, and assisting with proposal development.

Special Instructions

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials:

• Resume or CV.
• Cover letter addressed to the Search Committee briefly describing your qualifications, professional goals, and specific interest in this position.
• Although not required at the time of application, if you are identified as a finalist for this role, we will request letters of recommendation at a later time.

If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources department using an approved online vendor. If your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit a translated version as an optional attachment.

Please apply by August 14, 2026 for consideration.

Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs.

In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

Posting Contact Information

Posting Contact Name: Xinzhao Chu

Posting Contact Email: XINZHAO.CHU@COLORADO.EDU

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