Global Climate Change

Careers in Science From the Field

Clark Weaver, PhD, is an Atmospheric Scientist at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, as well as staff at the University of Maryland-Baltimore County. Dr. Weaver grew up in Worthington, Ohio. He obtained a BA in Chemistry, and Masters Degree from Ohio State University. He received a PhD in Atmospheric Science from Colorado State University, where his completed a dissertation entitled "Entrainment instability of marine-stratocumulus". His hobbies include photography, guitar and woodworking.

What is your profession?

I am an Atmospheric Scientist working at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center.

What are the responsibilities of your position?

To better understand how atmospheric aerosols effect the Earth's energy budget. The atmosphere has different types of aerosols: mineral dust from deserts (e.g. Africa and Mongolia), sea salt aerosol from breaking ocean waves, carbon from biomass burning and trees (e.g. Brazil and tropical Africa), and sulfate from industrial pollution (Europe and North America). Since these aerosols are of different composition they have a different effect on the Earth's temperature.

Can you describe a typical week in your position?

My time is divided between writing the computer code for the numerical models I use to simulate the atmosphere, analyzing the satellite data and model output using a convenient graphical software package, writing papers for publication in scientific journals, and preparing and giving presentations.

What part of this job do you personally find most satisfying? Most challenging?

There are still lots of things we do not understand about earth science. I am satisfied by adding a bit of insight or understanding to some of these unsolved issues.

What are the biggest challenges facing your field?

Communication with the public is a big challenge. In order to get adequate funding for scientific research, scientists need to demonstrate to the public that the fruits of their research are beneficial to society—this could be writing an article for the media or just talking with someone at a party.

What are the skills that are most important for a position in this field?

Writing, communication and understanding of mathematics and physics.

What kind of experience, paid or unpaid, would you encourage someone to gain if s/he is interested in pursuing a career in this field?

Working as a student intern in a laboratory.

What type of education background is required?

Masters of Science or PhD

What are the typical entry-level job titles and functions? What entry-level jobs are best for learning as much as possible?

If you want a position as a researcher you need a PhD, so graduate school is must.

What are the salary ranges for various levels in this field?

$50,000 to $150,000 per year

What special advice do you have for a student seeking to qualify for this position?

Study as much math as possible in high school and read popular articles about science, like Scientific American or the Science section of your local paper.

Submitted by: Matt Mosgin, 2003 Summer Intern