University of Southern Mississippi

Research Scientist- Geomagnetics

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Research Scientist- Geomagnetics.

Position Details

Location

John C. Stennis Space Center

1020 Balch Blvd

Stennis Space Center, Mississippi, 39529

United States

Division

Marine Science

Position Type

Staff

Employment Status

Full Time

Grant Funded

Yes

Pay Grade

Generic Grade

Posting Close Date

June 20, 2025

Job Summary

During the period of work, Summer 2025, the efforts of the incumbent will support and benefit an existing U.S. Naval Research Lab project on use of the geomagnetic field as a complementary positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) signal. Work will involve developing and implementing multi-physics inverse modeling methods to support reference magnetic map-making. Analytical and model products of magnetic data will be used to ensure PNT and to enable an alternative-to-GPS localization and navigation capability for uncrewed Navy platforms.

The incumbent, under the supervision of the principal investigator, is responsible for the processing and inverse modeling of geomagnetic data to support the generation of improved continuous coverage gridded maps. Magnetic data types include satellite, airborne, shiptrack, and autonomous vehicle data. Methods for generating magnetic data and model products and the products themselves will be documented in written reports and as computer code.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

1. Assist in building digital databases of raw magnetic survey measurement data.
2. Assist in processing magnetic measurement data to produce consistent estimates of the lithospheric magnetic field for individual survey measurement sets.
3. Assist with experiments in modeling magnetic field data from multiple surveys to estimate the lithospheric field from composite magnetic datasets.
4. Assist with experiments in producing estimates of sediment layer thickness and depth to magnetic basement from multi-physics inverse modeling.
5. Assist in making quantitative comparison of newly developed magnetic map products with existing baseline maps using, for example 2D wavelet coherence methods, and perform other duties as assigned.
6. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor Degree in Geophysics, Geoscience, or Engineering.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of fundamental concepts in geophysics and specifically in potential fields and geomagnetics. Familiarity with at least one computer language, e.g., Python, Matlab.

Preferred Qualifications

Previous experience in working with magnetic survey data, including databasing, data processing, map production, and interpretation. Previous experience using Python libraries or Matlab tools to process and visualize magnetic data.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.