Lidar Research Scientist

Job Description:

Analytical Mechanics Associates (AMA), as part of the Research, Science, and Engineering Services (RSES) contract, seeks a highly experienced Senior Research Scientist specializing in satellite lidar remote sensing of the atmosphere. This role supports the NASA Falcon-Lidar Project, a fast-track mission concept focused on advancing understanding of atmospheric aerosols and clouds to improve both weather and air-quality predictions. The Falcon-Lidar mission features a dual-wavelength, polarization-sensitive elastic backscatter lidar, jointly developed by NASA GSFC and LaRC, with an anticipated launch in 2029 and two years of on-orbit operations.

Key Responsibilities:

Algorithm Development & Calibration

• Lead development, implementation, testing, documentation (ATBD), and validation of:

  • Level 1 532 nm attenuated backscatter calibration algorithms

  • Level 1 532 nm depolarization calibration algorithms

• Support design, development, testing, documentation (ATBD), and validation of:

  • Level 2 aerosol and cloud extinction retrieval algorithms

  • Level 2 feature detection and classification algorithms for the Falcon-Lidar mission

Mission & Systems Support

• :Support Mission and Ground Segment Operations Concept design for spaceborne lidar systems.

• Participate in and contribute to:

  • Mission-level reviews

  • Technical meetings

  • Documentation deliverables

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely within a highly interactive, multidisciplinary team.

• Present research results at scientific meetings and conferences.

• Travel occasionally to domestic and international venues.

The salary range for this position is $110,000-$130,000 commensurate with education and relevant experience.

Minimum Qualifications:

• MS or PhD in Physics, Atmospheric Sciences, Meteorology, or related physical sciences.

• 10+ years of professional experience in:

  • Development and validation of aerosol/cloud retrieval algorithms from spaceborne lidar

  • Scientific analysis of lidar measurements (peer-reviewed publication record required)

  • Lidar calibration techniques, algorithm development, and data product validation

• Extensive experience with CALIPSO, ALICAT, and EarthCARE lidar data products (highly desired).

• Deep understanding of operational ground data processing systems for spaceborne lidar missions.

• Proficiency in scientific programming using Python, MATLAB, or similar languages.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment.

• U.S. Person status required.

Analytical Mechanics Associates (AMA) is proud of our customer relationships, our diverse and dynamic work environment, and our employees' career satisfaction. AMA is a small business with a wide reach; headquartered in Hampton, VA, AMA has operations in Greenbelt, MD; Huntsville, AL; Dallas and Houston, TX; Denver, CO; Mountain View, CA; and Edwards Air Force Base, CA. With over 60 years of experience, AMA specializes in aerospace engineering, science, analytics, information technology, and visualization solutions. AMA combines the best of engineering, science, and mathematics capabilities with the latest in information technologies, visualization, and multimedia to build creative solutions. We offer competitive salaries and a substantial benefits package, including but not limited to paid personal and federally recognized holiday leave, salary deferrals into a 401(k)-matching plan with immediate vesting, tuition reimbursement, short/long term disability plans, and a variety of medical, dental, and vision insurance options.

AMA is committed to the professional growth of every employee, understanding that the successes of our employees drive our success. We provide a work environment that is engaging, collaborative, and supportive. To learn more about our company, please visit our website at www.ama-inc.com/careers and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

AMA is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment or employee because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic prohibited under federal, state, or local laws.