Welcome to the Joint Office for Science Support

The Joint Office for Science Support (JOSS) of the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) is a team of professional and skilled technical and administrative specialists whose mission is to collaborate with the scientific community. JOSS works closely with scientists and research managers to plan, organize and conduct scientific programs in the most productive, efficient and cost-effective ways.

JOSS works on many levels, from consulting with individual investigators to working with research managers and funding agency officials who are planning large-scale geophysical field experiments and monitoring projects.

JOSS will help you establish working relationships with key people in other institutions and agencies, the U.S. Department of State and other governments. We can collaborate on planning and conducting meetings, workshops and conferences of all sizes and at all levels. We can draw on the extensive breadth and depth of our collective knowledge and many years of experience in most regions of the world to advise and consult about every aspect of research activities or operations in the United States and other countries.

The JOSS team will work closely with you to evaluate the feasibility of operations in particular locations. We can help you translate scientific plans into a successful field effort through detailed budgeting, site surveys, and logistical and operational support. Our administrative and management specialists can handle your banking, contracts, insurance and other financial matters.

JOSS will establish and staff an operations center for your field project and direct daily operations under the guidance of your scientific investigators. We can supply ground support for aircraft, ships, radar and other observing platforms and systems. We can hire and supervise local workers and procure equipment and material for use in the field. We can provide technical training for observers and equipment operators, transportation to remote areas and maintenance of equipment at field sites.

These are a few examples of what JOSS can and will do for you. The JOSS team is always ready to consult with you face to face, by phone, or by e-mail to discuss and analyze your particular needs and explain how we can meet those needs most efficiently and effectively.