Scientific Collaborator to improve and optimise the data assimilation system

In der aktuellen Covid-19 Situation laufen die Rekrutierungen weiter. Es kann dabei allerdings zu Verzögerungen kommen. Vielen Dank für Ihr Verständnis.

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Center for Climate Systems Modeling (C2SM) at ETH and the Federal Institute of Meteorology and Climatology MeteoSwiss jointly run the weather and climate model ICON and analyse the resulting data. We are seeking a Scientific Collaborator to optimise the data assimilation systemof the ICON model, with special emphasis on the assimilation of volume radar data (80-100%).

Job description

As a scientific collaborator, you contribute to the improvement of the future operational Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) forecasts based on ICON, particularly its data assimilation system. Your main responsibility will be the assimilation of 3D Radar data and the assessment of a high frequency update model configuration targeted for the nowcasting time-range. Additionally, you will also be responsible for the preparation of the data assimilation system for the experimental NWP forecast support for the TEAMx Observational Campaign.

Your tasks will be the following:

• Implement the assimilation of radar volume data (focus on 3D reflectivities) and assess the resulting quality improvement of the forecasts.
• Setup a Rapid Update Cycle with an hourly update frequency for analyses and ensemble forecasts and assess its impact on the quality of the nowcasts.
• Contribute to the setup and tuning of the experimental MeteoSwiss model setup to support the TEAMx Observational Campaign, with a special emphasis on the assimilation of TEAMx observational data.

We offer scientific working with an operational state-of-the-art numerical weather forecast and data assimilation system within a highly motivated team. Your work will have an impact on future operational weather forecasts.

Your profile

You have an MSc in natural sciences or a related field and a PhD in atmospheric science. You have proven expertise in numerical weather prediction, in particular in the area of data assimilation. Additionally, you have excellent programming skills in at least one programming or scripting language, preferably in Fortran and Python. You are an open-minded personality with strong analytic skills and a self-dependent work style who enjoys working in a small team.

ETH Zurich

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.

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