Senior Lightning Scientist

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a technical and scientific authority on lightning physics, detection methodologies, and operational interpretation.
• Lead the development, evaluation, and improvement of lightning detection algorithms using techniques such as TOA, TDOA, interferometry, and hybrid approaches.
• Analyze RF signals across relevant frequency bands used in lightning detection, including waveform characterization, noise mitigation, and signal classification.
• Collaborate with hardware and electrical engineering teams on sensor design, RF front-end considerations, antenna design, placement, and calibration strategies.
• Develop and refine signal processing pipelines for real-time and post-processed lightning data.
• Design, test, and validate algorithms for lightning geolocation, flash clustering, classification (e.g., CG vs IC), and quality control.
• Evaluate network performance, detection efficiency, location accuracy, and timing precision using ground truth and statistical methods.
• Contribute to the integration of lightning data into forecasting, nowcasting, severe weather detection, and machine learning systems.
• Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and guidance to scientists and engineers working on lightning-related systems.
• Document methodologies, assumptions, system limitations, and scientific findings for internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with product, operations, and research teams to translate scientific advances into scalable, customer-facing solutions.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree (PhD or MS with significant experience) in Atmospheric Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Geophysics, or a related field.
• Deep understanding of lightning physics, electromagnetic emissions from lightning, and storm electrification processes.
• Strong background in RF systems, signal processing, and spectral analysis.
• Demonstrated experience with lightning detection techniques such as TOA, TDOA, interferometry, or related geolocation methods.
• Proficiency in algorithm development and data analysis using Python, C++, or similar scientific computing environments.
• Experience working with large-scale, real-time observational data systems.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Ability to communicate complex scientific and technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience designing or working directly with lightning detection hardware, sensors, or ground-based networks.
• Background in antenna theory, antenna design, and RF propagation effects.
• Familiarity with FPGA, SDR, or embedded systems used in RF signal acquisition.
• Experience with cloud-based data platforms and high-throughput data processing.