PhD in Climate Science – Understanding and quantifying changes in precipitation extremes

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

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

We invite applications for a PhD position under the supervision of Dr. Erich Fischer and Prof. Reto Knutti at the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science, ETH Zurich, Switzerland.

Project background

The overall objective is to understand, quantify and reduce uncertainties in projections of future extreme precipitation intensities with the help of dynamical constraints. The project will combine large initial condition ensembles of global climate models with reanalysis data and observations of extreme precipitation intensities. Storylines of future regional changes in extreme precipitation will be developed following different dynamical changes. Constrained estimates of future extreme precipitation changes will be produced considering the models' fidelity in representing the driving weather systems, seasonality and relation to the large-scale spatial patterns. The PhD is part of the project "dynamicAL ConstrAints on regional projections of future PrecipitatiON Extremes (AL CAPONE)", funded jointly by the German Research Foundation and the Swiss National Science Foundation as a collaborative project between ETH Zurich and the Weather and Climate Processes Group of Prof. Stephan Pfahl at FU Berlin.

Job description

We offer a dynamic and inspiring research environment, excellent work conditions, supercomputing infrastructure, and a large degree of freedom for the successful candidate to bring in her/his own research ideas and experience. The position is fully funded for 3-4 years, the typical time to complete a PhD at ETH. The Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science www.iac.ethz.ch is a world-leading institute in the field of research on global and regional climate change.

Your profile

Successful applicants have a MSc degree, Diploma or equivalent in physics, atmospheric or climate sciences, or related subjects, ideally experience with UNIX/Linux operating systems and data analysis frameworks (such as Python, R, NCL etc.). Regardless of background, the successful applicant will have an interactive personality, motivation to work with cutting-edge numerical climate models and their output, the ability to carry out research in an interdisciplinary and international environment, and a strong desire to disseminate results in conference talks and journal articles. Fluency in English (written and spoken) and strong communication skills are required.

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.

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich