The Goddard Earth Sciences and Technology Center (GEST) and the NASA Goddard Earth Sciences Directorate are seeking highly qualified Ph.D. scientists for collaboration in scientific research relating to the observation, analysis and modeling of physical processes within the earth-atmosphere system, and to relevant global change issues. Selected candidates will be offered appointments as Visiting Fellows to pursue independent research in collaboration with scientists in the Laboratories within the Earth Sciences Directorate, and will have full access to NASA computing facilities and other resources at either the Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, MD or at the Goddard Institute for Space Studies in New York, NY. This solicitation is aimed at all levels from post-doctoral to senior scientists. We particularly encourage university faculty interested in sabbatical arrangements.

GEST is a new consortium of three universities (University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Howard University, and Hampton University) and two private industry partners (Caelum Research Corporation and the Northrop-Grumman Corporation) working under a Cooperative Agreement with the Goddard Space Flight Center to promote excellence in Earth science research. Goddard Space Flight Center is a world leader in research on the Earth and its environment through the development and use of near-Earth orbiting spacecraft. Research interests in the Earth Sciences Directorate include attaining knowledge and understanding of the components of the Earth system through experimental and theoretical studies using NASA technology, information science, and space observations. The approach includes instrument, algorithm and model development involving remote sensing and in situ measurements. The principal components of research and corresponding research interests are as follows:

Atmospheric Research: Involves the structural, dynamic, radiative, and chemical properties of the Earth’s troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere and thermosphere and the atmospheres of other planets. Research interests include ozone, clouds, aerosols, precipitation, regional and global climate, fronts, gravity waves, cyclones, thunderstorms, and convective systems. Data derives from optical, UV, IR and laser sensors, and in situ mass spectrometers.

Terrestrial Physics Research: Involves geological and geophysical processes of solid Earth and the planets, and global land surface properties, both vegetative and biological. Research interests include Earth and planetary gravity and magnetic fields, Earth's rotation, plate motion, volcanic activity, post-glacial rebound, land surface topography, biospheric processes, vegetation monitoring, and biosphere-atmosphere interactions. Data derives from space and ground based lasers, laser altimeters, field campaigns involving measurements in local ecosystems and the climate/oceanic/biospheric system.

Hydrospheric Research: Involves the oceanic, cryospheric and hydrologic sciences. Research interests include the natural variability of the physical climate system on seasonal-to-interannual time scales, the global carbon cycle, global land ice and sea ice covers, the global hydrological cycle, and interactions between the physical climate system and biogeochemical cycles. Data derives from optical, microwave, and laser sensors and in situ hydrologic measurements.

To apply, send a current curriculum vitae and the names and email addresses of three professional references along with a brief proposal (maximum three pages) that contains a statement of research interests, expected contributions to NASA's efforts, and your availability to:

Dr. Robert J. Curran, Director

Goddard Earth Sciences and Technology Center

3.002 South Campus

University of Maryland, Baltimore County

1000 Hilltop Circle

Baltimore, MD 21250

Attn: Goddard Visiting Fellows Program

or send by email to: curran@umbc.edu

Applications may be made at anytime of the year. Initial appointments are expected to be for periods up to one year with terms and exact start dates negotiable. Applicants wishing appointments to commence in fall 2002 should apply by January 18, 2002 to be considered. The latter applications will be reviewed and selections made by March 1, 2002. Review will be by a panel of university and NASA scientists based on relevance to NASA's missions, expertise and credentials offered, and clarity and feasibility of stated research goals within the proposed time frame and available resources. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. GEST partners are equal opportunity/affirmative action employers. Applications from women and minorities are strongly encouraged. Due to NASA Goddard security regulations, citizens of certain nations may be ineligible