The Applied Physics Laboratory is a research unit at the University of Washington. Our research expertise is in ocean physics and engineering, ocean and medical acoustics, polar science, environmental remote sensing, and signal processing. We conduct research and development that is sponsored by a variety of federal and state agencies and take great pride in our long-standing status as a US Navy-designated University Affiliated Research Center (UARC). Our work takes place not only on the University of Washington campus and medical centers, but in field locations around the world – at sea, in the air, and on polar ice caps. We apply rigorous scientific inquiry and engineering excellence in pursuit of solutions to important problems for the good of our region, nation, and world.We are seeking a full-time, Research Oceanography Intern to join our APL-UW Expeditionary Physical Sensing team. This experience will involve computational analysis, autonomous system piloting, and observational deployment efforts supporting a series of oceanographic measurement programs. The position will be involved in the preparation of autonomous systems for deployment, fieldwork, data analysis, review, simulation, development, and low-level system diagnostic and debugging. As a field-going group, participation in sustained ocean sensing programs is to be expected, with a share of operations responsibility. As needed, fieldwork support may require flexibility to work irregular work hours, including evenings and weekends.

This project is anticipated to pursue the following outcomes:1. Develop a working understanding of how UUV-acquired observations are used to support 4DVAR assimilation in ROMS-based studies of ocean variability.2. Gain experience in pre-deployment planning, including the use of path prediction tools to support safe and effective UUV operations.3. Participate in international field work and understand the operational demands of 24/7 piloting and mission support.4. Learn how to coordinate research activities across multiple institutions, including academic collaborators and Navy partners.5. Conduct real-time data analysis to assess the fidelity and usefulness of field measurements.6. Evaluate model forecasts, nowcasts, and hindcasts to examine how ocean physics influences UUV sea-keeping and operational performance.7. Strengthen programming and analytical skills through the use of Matlab and/or Python.8. Enable clear communication of methods, findings, and recommendations.

Interested in learning more? Contact our recruiter at lojones@uw.edu for more information and we’ll reply with next steps!