Atmospheric Influence on Caribbean Marine Heatwaves: Scientific Research and Educational Outreach in Princeton, New Jersey at Princeton University

In this unique opportunity combining research and outreach, Princeton University’s Atmospheric and Oceanic (AOS) Sciences Program, in cooperation with NOAA’s Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (GFDL) and Cooperative Science Center for Earth Systems Sciences and Remote Sensing Technologies II (CESSRST II), seeks applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to:

1. conduct research investigating the atmospheric drivers of marine heatwaves (MHWs) in the Caribbean using observations and climate model output,
2. and to develop and teach an educational outreach curriculum to train adolescents from underserved communities in New Jersey and Puerto Rico in climate science and climate data analysis.

Marine Heatwaves (MHWs) are periods of extreme, warm sea surface temperatures that can be devastating to marine ecosystems. Yet despite the danger MHWs pose, the physical drivers of these events --both in current and future climates-- are not well understood. Furthermore, it is important that communities most affected by MHWs are educated and engaged on the topic.

This opportunity seeks applicants with a strong background in atmospheric science and/or physical oceanography research, in addition to education and outreach. A Ph.D. in oceanography, physical geography, mathematics/statistics, environmental, climate, atmospheric, and/or physical sciences is required. Candidates should be skilled in using computer programming to analyze climate data and be familiar with Caribbean/tropical climate from an atmosphere and/or ocean perspective. Candidates should also have very strong communication skills and be experienced in teaching science and/or coding to high school and/or undergraduate students.

Other beneficial experiences include prior work with climate observations, global and/or regional climate model output, ocean mixed-layer heat budgets and/or water mass transformation, and interdisciplinary experience bridging climate science with education and outreach particularly in underserved communities.

Positions at the rank of Postdoctoral Research Associate rank are for one year with the possibility of renewal pending satisfactory performance and continued funding. Princeton is interested in candidates who, through their research, will contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community. This position is subject to the University's background check policy. This position is not eligible for sponsorship of an H-1B visa requiring consular processing; other visa sponsorships (including H-1B visas not requiring consular processing) may be available, as appropriate.

The successful candidate’s project will be primarily coordinated with members of GFDL’s Atmospheric Physics, Ocean and Cryosphere, and Marine Ecosystems and Downscaling divisions. For additional information, contact David Paynter (dpaynter@princeton.edu).

Complete applications include a 2-page cover letter outlining the candidate's relevant research and educational/outreach experience, CV, publication list, and 3 letters of recommendation. Application deadline is August 20, 2026, 11:59 pm EST. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.