PhD Position on the Dynamics of Mediterranean Cyclones in Zürich

100%, Zurich, temporary

The atmospheric dynamics group at ETH Zurich, led by Heini Wernli, is an enthusiastic team that investigates the chaotic complex nature of atmospheric flow. Research is conducted to better understand the genesis, structure and interaction of different weather systems. This involves dynamically-based diagnostics, prognostic simulations with numerical models, and the detailed analysis of observations and simulated data.

This PhD project has been funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF). The ideal starting date of the project is in April/May 2020 are soon thereafter. The main supervisors of the project will be Dr. Emmanouil Flaounas and Prof. Heini Wernli.

Mediterranean cyclones are a fascinating and challenging theme of atmospheric dynamics. In addition to the "typical" processes that affect all extratropical cyclones, Mediterranean cyclones are influenced by the unique geographical environment. The proximity of the Sahara can lead to intrusions of dry and dusty air from North Africa. The high mountains that surround the Mediterranean Sea favour lee cyclogenesis, while due to its latitudinal location between the tropics and the mid-latitudes, cyclones may develop into subtropical systems or even undergo tropical transition with catastrophic socio-economic impacts. Mediterranean cyclones are worldwide unique atmospheric systems, governed by complex dynamics that are however currently poorly understood. For this reason, modelling Mediterranean cyclones is a rather difficult task that renders forecasting of severe weather a real challenge in the region. The first step of this project is to investigate the uniqueness of the dynamics of Mediterranean cyclones. To this end, the dynamics of a large set of Mediterranean cyclones will be compared with the dynamics of other cyclones in the mid-latitude storm tracks, using the potential vorticity framework to quantify the involved processes. In a next step, reanalyses and forecasts from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) will be used to identify Mediterranean cyclones with deep convection in their core, which can be potentially characterised as tropical-like cyclones. These systems are the most challenging ones for forecasting models and thus of special interest for this project. The findings from the two first steps will be be the basis to analyse the systematic biases of the regional forecasting model WRF when simulating the processes related to the development of Mediterranean cyclones.

We are looking for a motivated, open-minded, curious and creative PhD candidate with a MSc degree in atmospheric science, meteorology, environmental/earth science or physics with a solid background in atmospheric dynamics and, preferably, with experience in numerical modeling. The candidate should have a strong interest in cyclone dynamics, potential vorticity diagnostics and numerical weather prediction. In addition, the candidate should be keen on running numerical model experiments and analyzing large amounts of data. Very good spoken and written English language skills for communication within the group, for the presentation of scientific results at international conferences and in written papers are required.

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.