Position Overview
Organization: Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Kanpur
Title: Project Scientist 1 (Two positions)
Position Description: 
The goal is to use machine learning algorithms such as deep neural networks, and 
support vector machines as surrogate models to accurately estimate the vertical 
turbulent fluxes in the regional Indian Ocean model at low resolutions thereby 
improving the accuracy of the ocean circulation at low resolutions. The project 
scientist will use the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 
Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory’s (GFDL) Modular Ocean Model (MOM5) to 
collect high-resolution and low-resolution SGS flux data at all grid points and 
will develop machine learning-based surrogate models that will take low and 
high-resolution data, obtained from the previous step, as input and output 
respectively. Once the surrogate model is validated and tested it will be 
incorporated into the regional Indian Ocean model for estimating the SGS fluxes 
for different initialization and surface forcings at low resolution. Finally, 
the project scientist will compare these results with analogous high-resolution 
simulations/observational data.  
This is a full-time appointment. The successful candidate will receive a salary 
of ₹56,000 + 18% HRA (if housing is not provided by the hosting institute) as 
per DST regulations. The initial appointment is for one year with the 
possibility of a second-year renewal subject to satisfactory performance.  
Qualifications
The candidate must have a Ph.D. degree, preferably in oceanography, geophysical 
fluid dynamics, computer science, or a related field, and be prepared to adapt 
or develop codes. Experience with Ocean models such as the Modular Ocean Model 
(MOM5), Regional Ocean Modeling System (ROMS), or HYbrid Coordinate Ocean Model 
(HYCOM) is highly desirable. Additional preferable skills include a good 
knowledge of Python, or PyTorch, and Machine learning.  
Instructions:
The position remains open until filled. Applicants will be asked to provide a 
current CV, publication list, a maximum two-page research statement including 
references, and two referees’ names and contact details. Review of the 
applications will start immediately. Interested candidates may please send all 
the above-mentioned details to Dr. Anikesh Pal (pala@iitk.ac.in), Department of 
Mechanical Engineering IIT Kanpur.