Application Guide
How to Apply for Staff Scientist, Modeling Applications
at Convergentresearch
🏢 About Convergentresearch
[C]Worthy is a non-profit research organization on a mission to transform research-grade oceanographic models into decision-support tools for ocean-based carbon dioxide removal (CDR). Unlike typical climate tech companies, they build open-source infrastructure (C-Star) that standardizes regional biogeochemical ocean modeling, enabling transparent and science-backed Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV). This is a rare chance to work at the intersection of climate science, software engineering, and policy, contributing directly to scaling safe and effective ocean CDR solutions.
About This Role
As a Staff Scientist, Modeling Applications, you will be the technical bridge between the C-Star modeling platform and its real-world applications in CDR research and MRV. You will lead the design and execution of modeling experiments, develop workflows for model configuration and analysis, and collaborate with external partners to ensure the platform meets their needs. Your work will directly influence how ocean CDR projects are measured and verified, shaping the credibility of the entire field.
💡 A Day in the Life
You might start your day with a stand-up meeting to sync with the development team on C-Star's latest features. Then, you'll dive into configuring a regional model for a partner's CDR project, debugging a workflow script, or analyzing simulation output to assess carbon uptake. In the afternoon, you could join a call with external researchers to discuss their modeling needs or document your work for the open-source community. Expect a mix of hands-on technical work, collaboration, and strategic thinking about how to improve MRV for ocean CDR.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Convergentresearch Is Looking For
- PhD in oceanography, climate science, or a related field, with deep expertise in regional ocean modeling (e.g., ROMS, MITgcm, MOM6) and biogeochemical cycles.
- Proven experience in scientific software development, particularly with Python, and familiarity with open-source tools and collaborative platforms (e.g., GitHub).
- Strong track record of applying models to real-world problems, ideally in carbon cycle research, CDR, or MRV, with a focus on reproducibility and automation.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work with diverse stakeholders (scientists, developers, industry partners) and translate complex modeling concepts into actionable insights.
📝 Tips for Applying to Convergentresearch
Highlight any experience you have with ocean CDR, MRV, or carbon cycle modeling—this is central to [C]Worthy's mission and will set you apart.
Showcase your contributions to open-source scientific software, especially if you've built or maintained tools for model configuration, execution, or analysis.
Demonstrate familiarity with C-Star or similar modeling frameworks by referencing specific components (e.g., input/forcing data creation, automated workflows) in your application.
Emphasize your ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative non-profit environment; mention any experience with agile development or cross-disciplinary teams.
If you're applying remotely, address how you'll stay connected and productive, as the role prefers Boulder, CO, but considers remote work.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Your specific experience with regional biogeochemical ocean modeling and how it aligns with C-Star's goals.", "Concrete examples of how you've used models to address carbon cycle or CDR-related questions, ideally with a focus on MRV.", "Your approach to building reproducible, automated workflows and how you've contributed to open-source projects.", "Your motivation for working at a non-profit like [C]Worthy and how you'll contribute to their mission of accelerating ocean CDR."]
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Explore the C-Star platform on GitHub to understand its architecture, current capabilities, and how it's being used in CDR research.
- → Read [C]Worthy's published papers or blog posts on ocean CDR and MRV to grasp their scientific approach and key challenges.
- → Learn about the broader ocean CDR landscape, including different technologies (e.g., alkalinity enhancement, nutrient fertilization) and the role of MRV in carbon markets.
- → Investigate the backgrounds of the team members you'll be working with, especially their modeling and software development work, to tailor your questions and answers.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Focusing only on your modeling expertise without demonstrating how you've applied it to real-world problems or collaborated with stakeholders.
- Ignoring the open-source aspect of the role; [C]Worthy values transparency and community-driven development, so not mentioning relevant experience is a missed opportunity.
- Underestimating the importance of software engineering skills; this role requires more than just scientific computing—you need to build robust, maintainable tools.
- Failing to show enthusiasm for the mission; [C]Worthy is a non-profit tackling a critical climate challenge, and they want candidates who are genuinely passionate about ocean CDR.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Convergentresearch!