Research Assistant II

Research Assistant II in Climate Science (Temporary: June 3 – July 31, 2024): 
The project focuses on extracting maritime weather data from historical ship logbooks.

The successful applicant will be responsible for data management, maintain entries in the web-based database and liaise with WHOI Information Services staff and historical archival researchers for data entry, conduct quality control and data processing of historical ship logbook information. The successful applicant will analyze and visualize maritime weather data from the historical ship logbooks and process large multi-dimensional observational and reanalysis datasets for comparison. Good numerical skills and experience with analysis/plotting software (e.g., python, NCL, GRADS, Ferret, R, IDL, Matlab) are essential. A suitable candidate is familiar with Linux computing environment and statistical methods, especially also from a paleoclimate perspective. Experience with ‘best practices’ of scientific computing and programming and a background in relevant fields, such as climate / atmospheric science / oceanography / meteorology / environmental science or related field is required. Interdisciplinary research skills and teamwork experience, especially in historical climatology, paleoclimate science, or interest in historical sciences and humanities is desirable.

Essential Functions

Data management, database maintenance, data quality control, data processing, data analysis and visualization

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• As deemed necessary by supervisor

Education & Experience

Education:

B.S. in climate / atmosphere / ocean / environmental science or related field

Experience: 

• background in climate/atmosphere/ocean/environmental science
• good analysis and plotting software skills (e.g., python, Matlab, NCL, GRADS, Ferret)
• experience with scientific computing/programming (desirable: familiarity with Linux)
• interdisciplinary research skills and teamwork, especially in historical climatology, paleoclimate, or interest in historical sciences and humanities

Physical Requirements

No pre-determined physical requirements; all candidates are encouraged to apply.

Sea Duty

May work at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. Sleep and work hours can deviate from those on land. May be expected to work on watch schedule (such as 8 hours on and 8 hours off or 12 hours on and 8 hours off) for all or part of a cruise or to work as hours are needed to accomplish the planned work. May need to travel during holidays and for long distances to and from foreign ports. May experience rudimentary living and working conditions, with shared and basic living quarters and laboratories. May experience bad or extreme weather conditions, including heavy seas, winter weather or hot, tropical weather. Work on deck may occur in both hot and cold conditions around the clock. Sea conditions will lead to active ship motion. Should be able to climb steep and vertical ladders and able to enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills. Should be able to carry heavy gear and participate in the loading and unloading of the ship as well as in the activities on deck and in the labs during the cruise. Shipboard environment may include: confined areas, shared sleeping quarters (berths) and bathroom facilities, small and basic berthing, fixed meal times and basic menus. Modest levels of heating, cooling, ventilation, and illumination, limited or no email and internet access and limited off-duty and recreational facilities (library, lounge, movies). May be exposed to potential allergens and irritants, including paint fumes. May experience constant and intermittent loud noises, and slippery and uneven surfaces.