Research Scientist

Job Summary The Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) seeks a Research Scientist to join the Coastal Systems Modeling Group within the Center for Coastal Resources Management (CCRM). The role focuses on coastal hydrodynamics, water quality processes, and next‑generation operational modeling systems, including AI‑based approaches. Core Duties & Responsibilities Coastal Systems Modeling & Numerical Simulation (35%) Develop, implement, and refine unstructured‑grid hydrodynamic and water quality models using SCHISM. Support development of seamless creek‑to‑ocean operational forecasting systems. Conduct model calibration, validation, and performance evaluation. Perform uncertainty quantification and statistical analyses of model outputs. Maintain version control and reproducible modeling workflows. AI‑Based Model Development & Innovation (25%) Develop and extend next‑generation AI and machine‑learning models for coastal flooding and estuarine processes. Integrate AI methodologies with physics‑based numerical models. Explore hybrid modeling frameworks to improve predictive skill and computational efficiency. Contribute to advancing operational forecasting tools for stakeholder use. Research, Scholarship & Grant Support (20%) Contribute to peer‑reviewed publications, technical reports, and sponsor deliverables. Assist in preparation of grant proposals and continuation applications. Present research findings at scientific conferences, workshops, and stakeholder meetings. Support NOAA‑funded research objectives and reporting requirements. Collaboration & Mentorship (15%) Work closely with graduate students, postdoctoral associates, and visiting scientists. Participate in interdisciplinary research teams. Engage with collaborators across institutions and agencies. Provide technical guidance on modeling workflows and computational methods. Independent Research Development (5%) Develop new research directions aligned with coastal systems modeling goals. Identify emerging funding opportunities. Contribute to strategic growth of the modeling program. Required Qualifications Ph.D. in Coastal Engineering, Oceanography, Civil/Environmental Engineering, Marine Science, Applied Mathematics, or closely related field. Demonstrated record of peer‑reviewed research and scholarship commensurate with career stage. Experience with numerical modeling of oceanic and estuarine systems. Experience using unstructured grid models, particularly SCHISM. Experience working in interdisciplinary research teams. Strong quantitative and analytical skills. Advanced programming skills (Python, Fortran, MATLAB, R, C/C++). Experience with web‑based model applications or visualization tools. Knowledge of coastal and estuarine physical processes. Familiarity with uncertainty quantification and statistical analysis. Preferred Qualifications Experience integrating AI or machine learning approaches into environmental modeling. Experience with operational forecasting systems. Experience working on NOAA‑funded or federal research projects. Experience mentoring graduate students. Experience contributing to proposal development and grant management. Conditions of Employment The position is grant‑funded and term‑restricted. Continued employment is contingent upon funding availability and performance. Occasional travel for conferences or collaborator meetings and occasional evening or weekend work may be required. Salary Starting at $65,000.00. EEO Statement EEO is the Law. #J-18808-Ljbffr