Assistant Researcher – Earthquake Analyst

This position does not require prior academic exposure to earthquake or seismic theory. Candidates who enjoy performing scientific data analysis, working with scientific instruments, and are skilled in computing are encouraged to apply.

25%: Update and maintain earthquake database and map earthquake locations. Perform rigorous quality control checks to ensure accurate time picks and minimal location errors. Assimilate earthquake locations and attributes to identify spatial and/or statistical patterns in earthquake characteristics. Perform enhanced analysis, such as correlation to detect weak events and earthquake relocation, programming/coding to improve efficiency and/or accuracy of products. Collaborate with geophysicists and geologists to interpret earthquake and fault characteristics.

10%: Review events detected by the automated earth quake detection system. Update database to omit non-earthquake events. Work with KGS web administrator to update the earthquake websites. Make graphs, maps and tables, and assist with writing reports and newsletters.

Field Support
5%: Assist with mobilization/demobilization, site selection and preparation, installing permanent and temporary earthquake stations, and installing and troubleshooting electronic equipment. Monitor station state-of-health through continuous live feed observations for station problems or equipment failures. Occasional visits to installation sites might be necessary for data retrieval, equipment welfare checks, troubleshooting, and routine maintenance, likely involving a significant number of self-driven miles to remote Kansas locations using KGS vehicles. Some publication and presentation of findings to peer community will be necessary. Interaction with local community leaders, landowners, and the news media might be necessary. Assist with data reduction tasks and section field crews as needed.

• Bachelors in Physics, Astronomy, Geophysics, Electrical or Computing Engineering (or related degree with relevant coursework or research) by time of appointment.
• Scientific or engineering data analysis experience in academic or employment setting, submission of example(s) required.
• Advanced computing skills (e.g. experience with command line computing, scripting, or computer programming and/or experience using a specialized scientific or engineering program, etc.).
• Demonstrated experience to follow written and/or oral instructions, and good oral communication skills. Written skills will be evaluated by the quality of the application materials and oral communication skills will be assessed during the interview, by reference checks, and through scientific writing.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

• Valid Class "C" driver’s license at onset of employment.
• Ability to travel away from home-base for extended periods of time.
• Ability to work out of doors in possibly extreme conditions.

• Computer programming (e.g. C++, Matlab, etc.) or relational database experience (e.g. Oracle, SQL, etc.).
• Experience with GPS data mapping using Google Earth, ArcGIS, or similar software.
• Experience operating scientific instruments in a lab or field setting.
• Experience with signal analysis.
• Mechanical and electrical skills as demonstrated by work experience.
• Experience working independently and making decisions with remote guidance as evidenced by work experience.