Min-Jeong Kim

Dr. Min-Jeong Kim is a Research Physical Scientist at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, specializing in atmospheric data assimilation and satellite data applications. She is an expert in integrating satellite observations into Earth system models, focusing on advancing data assimilation techniques central to NASA’s Earth Science objectives. Dr. Kim leads the development of the Joint Effort for Data Assimilation Integration (JEDI)-based Observing System Simulation Experiment (OSSE) systems, enhancing capabilities for evaluating new observational data. Her work includes the utilization of new observation data in GEOS systems, advancing Earth system modeling through NASA missions. She also focuses on developing advanced data assimilation techniques, including machine learning and AI-based algorithms, and evaluates satellite data quality through OSSE and Observing System Experiments (OSE) to guide future NASA missions.

Ph.D. in Atmospheric Sciences from the University of Washington, Seattle

M.Sc. in Atmospheric Sciences from Seoul National University, Korea

B.Sc. in Atmospheric Sciences and Physics, Pusan National University, Korea

Performance Award, Earth Science Division, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, August 2025

Special Act Award, Global Modeling and Assimilation Office, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, April 2025

Special Act Award, Global Modeling and Assimilation Office, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, August 2024

Performance Award, Earth Science Division, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, July 2024

Outstanding Scientific Contribution, GMAO Peer Award, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, March 2019

NASA PMM Science Team, Best PI Award, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, October 2018

Contractor Award for Exceptional Scientific Achievement, Morgan State University, Division of Research & Economic Development, February 2015

Outstanding Scientific Contribution by a New GMAO Member, GMAO Peer Award, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, February 2015

NWP SAF Visiting Scientist Fund, Hosted by Stephen English in Met Office and Peter Bauer in ECMWF, UK, October 2008

Outstanding Publication Award, Hydrospheric and Biospheric Sciences Laboratory, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, August, 2005

Rotary Ambassador Scholarships, Dept. of Atmospheric Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 1998-2000

Member, NASA Source Evaluation Board (SEB)

2024 – Present

Evaluate the GLOMAS contract to support NASA’s mission success, contributing to critical assessments that align with the agency’s strategic goals.

Science PI NASA ESTO Advanced Information Systems Technology (AIST)

2025 – Present

Contributing to the development of an Analytic Collaborative Framework for Earth System Observatory (ESO) missions, based on realistic, science-based observing system simulations and the Program of Record (PoR). This framework will be integrated into a cloud-based cyberinfrastructure, enabling the creation of a 3D, comprehensive view of Earth through ESO’s unique satellites to enhance Earth system modeling and observational capabilities.

Co-Chair, GeoXO Science Team Data Assimilation Subgroup

2024 – Present

Spearheaded the organization of the inaugural GeoXO Data Assimilation Subgroup meeting, engaging over 80 participants from NASA, NOAA, academic institutions, and international organizations (e.g., ECMWF). Coordinated agenda development, facilitated speaker outreach, and laid the groundwork for integrating geostationary hyperspectral sounder data into U.S. operational systems.

Co-Investigator, NASA TROPICS Mission Science Team

2023 – Present

Played a key role in evaluating TROPICS constellation data and its integration into NASA GEOS Earth system models. Strengthened collaborations across NASA Earth Science Division labs and external partners to advance mission objectives and improve Earth system modeling capabilities.

Principal Investigator, NASA PMM Science Team

2016 – 2022

Led research initiatives focused on assimilating satellite data into operational Earth system models. Managed research activities, mentored junior scientists, and collaborated with mission leaders to ensure that data products aligned with NASA’s Earth Science Division objectives.

Chairperson, Korean Atmospheric Scientists in America (KASA)

2014 – 2016

Directed the strategic growth and development of KASA, fostering collaboration between atmospheric scientists from Korea and the U.S. Organized community-building events, scientific workshops, and international conferences to strengthen the network and advance atmospheric research.

Co-Chair, JCSDA Cloud and Precipitation Data Assimilation Working Group

2011 – 2013

Co-led a working group focused on developing innovative methods for assimilating cloud and precipitation data into Earth system models. Promoted collaboration among U.S. agencies and international partners to enhance model accuracy and improve forecasting techniques.

Organizing Committee, ECMWF-JCSDA Workshop on Assimilating Satellite Observations of Clouds and Precipitation into Earth System Models

June 15-17, 2010, Reading, UK

Contributed to the organization of this workshop aimed at improving methods for assimilating cloud and precipitation data into Earth system models. Facilitated cross-agency and international collaborations to advance assimilation techniques.

Editor, Korean Atmospheric Scientists in America (KASA)

2007 – 2008

Oversaw editorial activities for KASA publications, curating content related to advancements in atmospheric science research. Collaborated with members to highlight key research developments and disseminate information through scientific channels.