Undergraduate Research Assistant (SPRING)

Position Description: Drs. Furtado and Cavallo are recruiting a motivated undergraduate student, to begin in Spring 2026, who is interested in improving the prediction of atmospheric blocking patterns associated with extreme weather events (heatwaves, extreme cold air outbreaks, extreme precipitation, droughts) across the Northern Hemisphere.

The student will work with atmospheric reanalysis data and the latest operational subseasonal forecast model output (i/e forecasts out to 40-60+ days) to quantify the sensitivity of block events to precursors originating from the Arctic, mid-latitude, and tropical regions. The student's research will contribute to and be funded through a US Department of Energy (DOE) research grants.

Work will be 10 hours per week.

Required Attachments (No Self-Identifying Photos):

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Class Schedule
• Statement of Research and Teaching Interest

Required Education: Must be currently enrolled in the Spring semester as a student at the University of Oklahoma. Hiring contingent upon verification of current student status.

• Must attach Spring 2026 class schedule

Skills:

• Strong computer programming skills in a Unix environment (Python preferred)
• An understanding and/or strong desire to learn large-scale atmospheric and/or climate dynamics, and synoptic-scale meteorology
• An intellectual curiosity to learn about subseasonal forecasting
• Ability to work both independently and with a collaborative team setting

Special Instructions: If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy. To view the policy, visit https://hr.ou.edu/Policies-Handbooks/TB-Testing.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma values our community's unique talents, perspectives, and experiences. At OU, we aspire to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere. You Belong Here!

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, gender identity/expression (consistent with applicable law), age (40 or older), religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, housing, financial aid, and educational services.