Middle Atmospheric Data Assimilation
Research sought to improve weather forecasting by enhancing data assimilation techniques, including 4D-Var and ensemble methods, for the middle atmosphere using NOGAPS-ALPHA.
This grant is no longer accepting proposals
NRC Research Associateship Programs has archived this opportunity.
Funder: NRC Research Associateship Programs
Due Dates: May 1, 2025 (NRL opportunity)
Funding Amounts: Base stipend approximately $99,200/year with $3,000 travel allowance; typical fellowship duration 2-3 years.
Summary: Postdoctoral fellowship supporting innovative research to improve middle atmospheric data assimilation techniques, including 4D-Var and ensemble methods, at the Naval Research Laboratory using NOGAPS-ALPHA.
Key Information: Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents; requires contacting a Research Adviser prior to applying; relocation and health insurance benefits included.
Description
This fellowship opportunity at the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) focuses on advancing numerical weather prediction (NWP) models extended to the middle atmosphere, particularly the stratosphere and mesosphere. The NRL has developed a high-altitude version of the Navy’s Operational Global Atmospheric Prediction System (NOGAPS), called NOGAPS-ALPHA, which includes a data assimilation (DA) component critical for producing accurate atmospheric state analyses.
The research aims to improve data assimilation techniques, especially the four-dimensional variational assimilation algorithm (4D-Var) NAVDAS-AR, which enhances upon the existing 3D-Var system by better representing dynamical changes and providing a more balanced initial state to reduce forecast errors. The fellowship encourages innovative research in:
- Optimizing use of current atmospheric measurements
- Enhancing the 4D-Var algorithm
- Developing ensemble-based assimilation techniques
- Assimilation of trace gases such as ozone, water vapor, and N2O
This research supports improved extended-range weather forecasting and a deeper understanding of the middle atmosphere.
