The Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University located in Palisades, New York, invites applications for an Associate Research Scientist (ARS) to conduct research in the Rock and Ice Mechanics lab in the Seismology, Geology and Tectonophysics department.  The ARS would be responsible for independently running laboratory experiments of optical/electromagnetic attenuation in ice samples with communication tethers, using a cryogenic appartus and reflectometer/spectrum analyzer, with a goal of determining the effects of shear/adhesion on tether survivability in off world exploration.  Experiments involve fabricating ice samples, buidling a new pull-out testing apparatus, developing unique pull-out test protocols, and performing multi-step tests over ranges of temperature, stress. The ARS will also lead research related to material exchange at Europa, conducting modeling to identify limits of ice shell subduction by evaluating parameters of failure envelope, friction.  Will perform radiative transfer modeling and refine tools to detect surface exposures, composition, and constrain microphysical properties by running calculations of exposure age, temperature, and radiation dosage.  Will initiate and lead reporting of results via conferences and will interact and advance collaborations with external partners.  The ARS will additionally mentor interns and write specific papers.

Duties and Responsibilities will include:

• Runs/oversees experiments and models for existing funded projects, receiving regular feedback and advice from Principal Investigators (PI).
• Operates as an independent researcher within overarching goals set by the PI.  Will carry out/assist in high quality research related to the achievement of the Observatory's mission.  Initiates, secures funding for, and leads independent scientific research efforts.
• Disseminate results with the public via National and International conferences and seminars and with the general public via media outlets and outreach.
• Prepares research publications and reports and contributes to: patentable inventions, important research techniques and/or theories that significantly impact the science.  
• Oversees the budget for various funded projects, including responsibility for budgets pertaining to Co-I and GRA salary, purchases, publication costs and travel.  Some responsibilities for other project purchases.
• Receives general supervision from PI McCarthy.  Functions independently within general guidelines or as a research team member with project responsibilities.  Will work closely with other lead investigators on long-term planning and development.

Ph.D. in Science area or equivalent terminal degree relevant to the project required.  Related experience preferred.

May require any or all of the following:

• Demonstrated expertise important to an existing or nascent Lamont research project.
• Record of publications in the scientific literature, including technical reports and proceedings volumes.
• Skills or accomplishments in patents, software, instructional materials, science articles for a popular audience, websites, databases, or similar products preferred. 
• Organizational, managerial, editorial or public outreach skills highly desirable.

The search will remain open for at least 30 days after the ad appears and will remain open until the position is filled.

Appointments are made on a fiscal year basis and are eligible for renewal each July 1st, contingent upon performance and funding.  

Columbia University benefits accompany this Officer of Research appointment.

The Lamont campus values diversity and inclusion, and encourages applications from members of underrepresented minority groups.  

Starting salary: $72,000

We accept online applications only. 

Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Pay Transparency Disclosure

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training.  The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

About Columbia University

Columbia University is one of the world's most important centers of research and at the same time a distinctive and distinguished learning environment for undergraduates and graduate students in many scholarly and professional fields. The University recognizes the importance of its location in New York City and seeks to link its research and teaching to the vast resources of a great metropolis. It seeks to attract a diverse and international faculty and student body, to support research and teaching on global issues, and to create academic relationships with many countries and regions. It expects all areas of the university to advance knowledge and learning at the highest level and to convey the products of its efforts to the world.

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