Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA)
Position Title
Graduate Teaching Assistant – Climate and Atmospheric Sciences
Position Summary
The Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) in Climate and Atmospheric Sciences supports faculty in the delivery of undergraduate and graduate courses, laboratory sessions, and field activities related to climate science, meteorology, and atmospheric dynamics and climate physics. The GTA assists in instruction, grading, and student engagement while gaining professional experience in teaching, scientific communication, and atmospheric data analysis.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist instructors in preparing lectures, lab exercises, and course materials for classes such as Climate Science, Climate Data Analysis, Meteorology, Climate Change in the PNW, Atmospheric Dynamics and Climate Physics.
- Lead or co-lead laboratory or discussion sections, demonstrating atmospheric science principles and analytical techniques.
- Provide instruction and support in using programming tools and software (e.g., MATLAB, Python, IDL, ArcGIS, or climate data visualization programs).
- Grade assignments, lab reports, exams, and projects accurately and efficiently.
- Maintain records of student performance and attendance.
- Hold office hours and provide tutoring sessions to support student learning.
- Assist in the setup, calibration, and operation of atmospheric observation instruments (e.g., ATS 295 Observing Climate)
- Support field courses, data collection activities, and real-time weather monitoring exercises.
- Support OSU-approved learning management platforms.
- Manage and maintain laboratory safety, data archives, and equipment inventories.
- Contribute to online learning platforms such as Canvas.
- Participate in GTA orientation, departmental meetings, and training sessions as required.
- Perform other duties as assigned by supervising faculty or the department.
Qualifications
- Enrollment in a graduate program at Oregon State University.
- Academic background in atmospheric or climate science, or a related field
- Experience with atmospheric data collection, numerical modeling, or analysis tools.
- Proficiency with relevant programming or data visualization software (e.g., Python, MATLAB, IDV, Panoply).
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage time effectively and work collaboratively with faculty and students.
Relevant Health and Safety Information
- Public Safety: Dial 9-1-1 or call 541-737-7000
- 24/7 Dispatch/Non-Emergency: 541-737-3010
- University Environmental Health and Safety: 541-737-2273
- Non-Emergency Hotline : 541-713-7233
- Online Training Portal
Learning Outcomes
- Gain hands-on teaching experience and strengthen communication and leadership skills.
- Enhance technical and analytical skills in atmospheric science education and research.
- Build professional preparation for careers in academia, government, or the private sector in atmospheric and climate sciences.
- Receive professional mentorship from faculty and exposure to academic
instruction.
Questions or Concerns
If you have any questions about your GTA assignment or have concerns regarding your
current position, please contact Robert Allan.