Chalmers University of Technology
Postdoc in Cold clouds - bridging the gap between satellite observations and models
Om jobbet
Ice and mixed-phase clouds remain a significant challenge for both observational methods and atmospheric modeling. However, recent advances in both areas offer promising opportunities for progress. We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to explore novel, in-house and external, satellite retrievals and compare them with high-resolution model data, to improve our understanding of these cold cloud systems.About us
At the Division of Geoscience and Remote Sensing, part of the Department of Environmental and Energy Sciences, we conduct research, education, and utilisation within various scientific and engineering disciplines, including ground-based, airborne, and satellite measurements, numerical modelling, and data analysis. The division's goals are to enhance understanding of the Earth system and global environmental issues, and to provide and interpret global datasets. We pursue scientific knowledge and provide tools to tackle problems of importance to society, such as climate change, Earth system science, air pollution, natural hazards, and monitoring of the Earth's surface. We have extensive experience in developing and applying remote sensing across the electromagnetic spectrum and studying problems at different scales, from molecular processes in clouds to global environmental change. Our research environment is unique in Sweden, combining expertise in measurement technique development, atmospheric modelling, and advanced methods for integrating observational and model data through data assimilation and machine learning.
About the research project
The overall aim of the project is to apply newly developed satellite retrievals, in conjunction with modelling and reanalysis results, to improve our understanding of cloud physics and feedbacks. In particular, the division has developed two retrieval approaches providing unique data on ice clouds. The two resulting datasets, CCIC and CHIP-AWS, complement each other and can be claimed, in different ways, to represent the state of the art (https://clouds-and-precip.group). Another new source of observations is the emerging set of EarthCARE data products. These new satellite-based observations will be used to verify and complement atmospheric model data, enabling the investigation of cloud processes and feedback mechanisms. Special attention will be given to km-scale-resolution models, as they provide data that are more easily comparable to observations. Long-term changes will be studied using reanalysis data (ERA6).
The datasets developed by the division are, so far, most relevant for ice clouds, but mixed-phase clouds are also within the project's scope. Exact study areas and the project's specific focus are partially up to the candidate, depending on their research background.
Who we are looking for
The following requirements are mandatory:
- A doctoral degree in meteorology, atmospheric physics, physics, mathematics, or a closely related field. This eligibility requirement must be met no later than the time the employment decision is made.
- A research background that aligns with the research project.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
The following experience will strengthen your application:
- A doctoral degree, obtained within the last three years before the application deadline.
- Programming skills in Python and data analysis.
- Track record of scientific publications in international peer-reviewed journals.
- Knowledge of atmospheric science and/or atmospheric modelling.
- Experience in applying or deriving remote sensing data.
- Experience in working with climate model data.
- Experience in teaching at the university level.
- You have a collaborative mindset and enjoy working in team environments, where you share best practices and take ownership of your responsibilities.
- You are self-driven, eager to learn, and possess good analytical problem-solving skills.
What you will do
As a postdoctoral researcher, your primary responsibility is to conduct and publish research.
The work will include:
- Develop and expand your scientific expertise on cloud physics, satellite remote sensing, reanalysis data and model data.
- Work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Analyse satellite products in comparison to reanalysis and model data.
- Explore and contribute new research ideas.
- Present results at conferences and meetings.
- Write manuscripts and publish papers in scientific journals.
- Supervise master's and/or PhD students to a certain extent.
- Possibility to engage in teaching at undergraduate/master's level.
The position is meritorious for future roles in academia, industry, or the public sector.
Contract terms
The position is a temporary full-time employment for two years with the possibility of a one-year extension.
The position requires physical presence throughout the entire employment. A valid residence permit must be presented by the start date, otherwise the offer may be withdrawn.
What we offer
- As a postdoc at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.
- A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
- Read more about Sweden's generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.
Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence. We celebrate diversity and consider equality and inclusion as fundamental aspects of all our activities.
If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.
Application procedure
The application should be written in English be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.
CV
- A comprehensive CV, including a complete list of publications.
- Details of previous teaching and pedagogical experience.
Personal letter
- A brief introduction about yourself.
- A summary of your previous research fields and key research outcomes.
- An outline of your future goals and research focus.
Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.
A background check may be conducted as part of the application process.
Please note:The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Contact details to references will be requested after the interview.
We welcome your application no later than May 17
For questions please contact:
Patrick Eriksson, patrick.eriksson@chalmers.se
Luisa Ickes, luisa.ickes@chalmers.se
We look forward to your application!
*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***
Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society.
Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez - forward.
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