PhD Position in Regional Climate Modeling via EURAXESS

The aim of our research is to better understand the role of the water cycle in past, current and future climates, and to improve the predictive power of climate models. Recent work of our group has established km-resolution climate modeling over Europe. This particular position will be devoted to regional climate modeling at different resolutions (12 – 2 km grid spacing). The position is part of the interdisciplinary project “Biodiversity, Earth, Climate Coupling in Yunnan” (BECCY), funded through an ETH+ grant. The overarching goal of this project is to better understand fundamental principles of biodiversity, with a focus in the Hengduan mountains, which is a region of outstanding biodiversity.

The main objective of the current PhD project is to investigate the climate of East Asia during past, current and possibly future time periods, and to assess the role of the Tibetan Plateau’s topography in shaping the monsoon climate. The targeted work includes extended climate simulations, statistical analysis, interpretation of results using physical and meteorological principles, and publication of results in peer-reviewed journals. The PhD is embedded in an interdisciplinary project and will collaborate and interact with scientists from Europe and China, covering disciplines from geology to ecology and evolution. The PhD position is embedded in an experienced research team, provides access to high-performance computing systems, and is linked to ongoing international and national initiatives (e.g. CORDEX, COPERNICUS, HORIZON2020).

We are looking for a curious young scientist with the ability to work well in a team. Requirements include:

• a degree in atmospheric or climate sciences or a related discipline;
• solid background in computing, ideally including experience with Unix, Python, Fortran and atmospheric models;
• proficient writing skills in English; good communication skills

We offer an attractive research environment at a leading climate research institute, a friendly working atmosphere in a young and ambitious research team, and excellent infrastructure.

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.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• cover letter
• CV
• transcript of records
• names and contact details of 2-3 references

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. The evaluation of applications will start on March 15 and proceed until the position is filled.

Further information about the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science can be found on our website www.iac.ethz.ch. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Silje Lund Sørland, Tel +41 44 632 6672 or email silje.soerland(at)env.ethz.ch (no applications).