Two PostDoc Positions in km-Resolution Climate Modeling in Zürich

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science at ETH Zurich has two open positions in the Climate and Water Cycle research group of Prof. Christoph Schär.

The aim of our research is to better understand the role of the water cycle in a changing climate, and to improve the predictive power of climate models. We are using an accelerated GPU-version of the COSMO model and are among the first groups that are able to perform decade-long continental-scale km-resolution climate simulations. The two positions are embedded in an experienced research team, provide access to high-performance computing systems, and are embedded into ongoing international and national initiatives (e.g. Horizon2020 projects EUCP and CONSTRAIN, ETH project EXCLAIM, SNF projects trCLIM and scCLIM). 

The targeted activities include: development of research and modeling strategies, execution of extended climate model simulations, contact and interaction with project partners, analysis and publication of results, as well as co-supervision of MSc and PhD students. The two positions have a focus in the following areas:

(A) The first position will be devoted to regional climate modeling over Europe at convection-resolving resolution (around 2 km grid spacing). The research will address the occurrence of extreme events and severe weather (heavy precipitation, thunderstorms, hail, lightning) in a changing climate.

(B) The second position will be devoted to cloud feedbacks in the tropics, with the intent to better constrain uncertainties in global climate change projections. The research will employ km-resolution numerical simulations over large computational domains covering the subtropical and tropical Atlantic.

We offer an attractive research environment, excellent infrastructure, and a friendly atmosphere in an ambitious research team at a leading climate research institute. The ideal starting dates for the positions are (early) fall 2021. The positions are for a period of two years with options for extensions. Further information about our research group can be found at .

We are looking for independent and result-oriented researchers with the ability to work well in a team. Requirements include: a PhD in atmospheric or climate sciences or a related discipline, experience in atmospheric modeling, a solid background in Python and Unix, proficient writing skills in English, as well as good communication skills. Some experience with atmospheric dynamics, analysis of large datasets, and/or high-performance computing will be a plus.

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.