Bachelor's degree or higher in Geophysics, Seismology, or a related field with 8+ years of experience in earthquake or explosion seismology.
Proven leadership in R&D projects addressing complex scientific problems in seismology.
Ability to independently perform advanced data analysis.
Exceptional analytical skills for interpreting complex data and creating visualizations.
Proficiency in numerical modeling tools and seismic data processing languages (Python, MATLAB, C/C++, etc.).
Experience with Linux-based high-performance computing systems.
Strong communication skills for collaboration and presenting complex concepts.
U.S. citizenship with eligibility for national security clearance.
Responsibilities
Lead advanced scientific research on geophysical challenges for nuclear test monitoring and defense missions.
Acquire, process, and analyze seismic data to identify natural and human-made signals.
Conduct time-series and spectral-domain analyses using advanced statistical methods.
Design research studies and develop innovative algorithms for data processing and signal detection.
Perform numerical modeling and simulation of seismic wavefields using various methods.
Produce technical reports, publications, and presentations for diverse audiences.
Stay updated on emerging techniques and technologies in geophysics and signal analysis.
Engage with clients to understand requirements and develop effective solutions.
Benefits
Hybrid/remote work flexibility.
Opportunity to work on high-impact projects in national security.
Access to advanced tools and technologies in geophysics.
Professional development through research and publication opportunities.
Collaborative work environment with a focus on innovation.
Full Job Description
Senior Research Seismologist
This is a hybrid/remote position. For the Arlington office, we are relocating to the Alexandria, VA area in early 2027.
For San Antonio, salary range is $120K-$173K.
For Raleigh and Albuquerque, salary range is $120K-$182K.
For Arlington and Santa Barbara, salary range is $120K-$200K.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead and execute advanced scientific research addressing complex geophysical challenges relevant to nuclear test monitoring and other defense missions.
Acquire, process, and analyze seismic data to detect, locate, and discriminate natural and anthropogenic signals.
Perform sophisticated time-series and spectral-domain analyses using advanced statistical and computational approaches.
Design research studies and develop innovative algorithms, tools, and workflows for data processing, signal detection, and event characterization.
Conduct numerical modeling and simulation of seismic wavefields (e.g., finite/spectral element methods, FK analysis, 3D ray tracing).
Produce high-quality technical reports, publications, proposals, and presentations for scientific, programmatic, and sponsor audiences.
Stay current on emerging techniques, technologies, and scientific advances in geophysics, monitoring systems, and signal analysis.
Engage directly with clients to understand technical requirements and deliver effective solutions, including through proposal development.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree or higher in Geophysics, Seismology, or a closely related field, and at least 8 years of direct experience in earthquake or explosion seismology in the professional environment.
Proven experience leading basic and applied research and development (R&D) projects to solve complex scientific problems in seismology.
Ability to perform advanced data analysis independently.
Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and generate compelling visualizations that support scientific conclusions.
Demonstrated proficiency with modern numerical modeling tools and the pre-/post-processing of seismic floating-point data (e.g., Python and scientific libraries, MATLAB, Linux shell scripting, C/C++/Fortran/Julia or other high-performance computing languages).
Experience working with Linux-based high-performance computing systems.
Highly self-motivated with a demonstrated ability to work independently on complex, high-impact projects.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to collaborate effectively and present complex concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. national security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications:
Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Geophysics, Seismology, or a closely related field.
Field experience with geophysical instrumentation and data acquisition, including DAS.
About Applied Research Associates Inc
Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is an employee-owned research and engineering company that provides technical solutions to complex problems in various fields, including defense, homeland security, intelligence, transportation, and energy. The company was founded in 1979 and is headquartered in Albuquerque, NM. ARA has over 1,600 employees and operates from more than 20 locations across the United States and Canada. The company's services include research and development, engineering, testing and evaluation, and consulting.
