How Postdoctorates Apply

A program designed to train the next generation of climate research leaders

The University Corporation for Atmospheric Research, Visiting Scientist Programs, helps prepare the next generation of weather and climate leaders and workforce by managing fellowship, visitor and workshop programs that meet emerging needs of the atmospheric and related sciences communities.

The UCAR Visiting Scientist Programs accepts applications for this program annually beginning in the August/September timeframe. The recruitment period for this program lasts until sometime in January. Appointments are announced in March. Please read the instructions below for how to apply.

Overview

This fellowship program is designed to provide an independent research opportunity to recently graduated PhDs who want to pursue interests that align with the NOAA Climate and Global Change Program (www.climate.noaa.gov). The program focuses on observing, understanding, modeling, and predicting the climate system on seasonal and longer time scales.

Experienced scientists at U.S. universities and research institutions host the appointed fellows providing mentoring and a collaborative environment to carry out their research projects.

Appointed fellows and their hosting mentors and program alumni are invited to participate in a biennial Summer Institute to share results of their diverse research, develop a sense of community, and discuss the future directions of climate science. The program also provides other valuable opportunities during the year for current appointees and alumni to gather, discuss their research and network.

Qualifications

Applicants must have a PhD degree in an area related to climate change research and have completed defense of the degree before starting the fellowship. We encourage applications from women and minorities and U.S. citizenship is not a requirement.

Stipend and Benefits

The current salary is a fixed $57,500 in the first year and $60,000 for the second year.  Salaries are adjusted annually in October based on surveys of like institutions. Benefits include health and life insurance and participation in UCAR’s retirement plan (TIAA/CREF). Travel expenses to the host institution will be reimbursed according to UCAR relocation guidelines for the postdoctoral fellow and his or her family. A moving allowance of $750 is also provided. Postdoctorates receive a $3,000 annual allowance for scientific travel (each year) during their appointment.

How to Apply

You will apply through UCAR’s central Career Opportunities page. The materials you will need are listed below. Before you begin the process of uploading your materials, we suggest that you prepare your documents into one .pdf document according to the order listed below.

• A cover letter stating the name of this program and where you learned of this opportunity.
• Curriculum vitae with a list of publications.
• Names and contact information of four, or more, professional references.
  • Note:
  • 1) Applicants are responsible for contacting their references to have letters sent to UCAR/VSP by the application deadline.
  • 2) One letter must be from thesis advisor, but not from a potential host mentor. 
  • 3) Reference letters from more than one institution are encouraged.
  • 4) References should refer to letter writing guidance located at: http://www.vsp.ucar.edu/cgc/references.html
• PhD dissertation abstract, including title of dissertation.
• Proposed project description. 
  • Note:
  • 1) Description must be titled and not to exceed five pages including figures and appendices (minimum 12 pt. type size). 
  • 2) Proposals must describe an actual research project.
  • 3) Applicants are encouraged to seek help from potential mentor in writing the project description.
• Statement of relevance to the NOAA Climate and Global Change Program (one-page limit). 
  • Note: Your Statement of Relevance should enhance and complement the research goals outlined at the NOAA Climate and Global Change website:  www.climate.noaa.gov.

Additional Notes: Advanced contact with a potential host mentor is strongly encouraged.  An applicant may wish to suggest more than one host institution, since the committee takes an active role in distributing fellowships among institutions. In the case of specific laboratory needs, a letter should accompany the application from the specific institution willing to provide the resources.

Step 1. 

When you begin the application process you will see the screen below. Select “Upload a resume/CV document”. 

Step 2. 

You will then be prompted to submit your résumé or CV as seen below.  At this point Upload your complete application as one (1) PDF document.
 
Step 3. 

Continue the application process as prompted.

Questions on the OpenHire application process may be addressed to nfithian@ucar.edu, or 303-497-8715.

Step 4. 

Please have reference letters sent by email to UCAR Visiting Scientist Programs at vspapply@ucar.edu:

• Applicants are responsible for contacting at least four referees to have letters sent to UCAR/VSP by the application deadline. One letter may be from thesis advisor, but not from a potential host, and letters from more than one institution are encouraged. Referees should be directed to online reference requirements.

Questions on the VSP application process may be addressed to vspapply@ucar.edu or 303-497-8649.

U.S. citizenship is not required to participate in this program, but the selected postdoctoral fellows must be hosted at a research institution within the Continental U.S. Appointed scientists are employees of UCAR. The two-year fellowships include a fixed annual salary and benefits: health & dental insurance, paid time off, paid holidays, mandatory participation in TIAA/CREF retirement fund, and life insurance. A relocation allowance is provided as well as an allowance for travel to scientific conferences and other support costs.

Program Announcement

How to Apply

• Postdoctorates
• Hosting Institutions
• Hosting Database
• Selection Criteria & Program Policies
• Reference Letter Guidance

Resources for Appointed Fellows

• Fellowship Guidelines & Procedures
• Pregnancy & Maternity Guide