PhD position on climate modelling of aerosol-cloud interactions

90%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Atmospheric Physics Group of Prof. Ulrike Lohmann at the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Sciences at ETH Zurich (IAC-ETH) invites applications for a 3 – 3.5-year PhD position within the project "Glaciogenic seeding on mixed-phase clouds for radiation management (GLANCE)", funded by the Solar Radiation Management (SRM) programme of the Simons Foundation. 

Project background

Solar and terrestrial radiation management is a climate intervention approach to modify the Earth's radiation budget by cooling the planet and mitigating some of the negative impacts from global warming. As a new alternative to solar radiation management proposals such as stratospheric aerosol injection, terrestrial radiation management has the potential to also mitigate polar warming during winter. In particular, a new method of mixed-phase cloud thinning (MCT) has recently been proposed, based on seeding supercooled liquid clouds with ice-nucleating particles (INPs). This causes these clouds to glaciate and precipitate, allowing more longwave radiation emitted to space. However, cloud glaciation is still poorly represented in climate models, so the risks and potential of this and other INP-based climate solutions remain uncertain. GLANCE aims to improve our understanding of cloud glaciation and MCT in order to increase our range of options in the event of a climate emergency and to minimise their potential risks.

Our group has long-standing experience in the representation of cloud glaciation and cloud ice in climate models. In addition, a wide range of computational resources for regional and climate modelling are available in our group and at ETH Zurich.

Job description

The main objectives of the PhD position will be:

1) Assess the cloud phase and radiative forcing in the mixed-phase regime with the global climate models ICON and CESM2.

2) Investigate MCT with ICON and CESM2.

Your profile

The successful candidate should hold an MSc (or equivalent) in chemistry, physics, engineering, atmospheric/environmental sciences, or a related field. Knowledge of oral and written English is required. A good background in thermodynamics and microphysics, and knowledge of programming languages such as Bash (Linux), Python and FORTRAN is expected. We are looking for a highly motivated, committed, and creative person.

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ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

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Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application that includes

• a CV
• academic transcripts
• work certificates (if any)
• a 1-page motivation letter stating research experiences and interests

Please provide the contact information of at least two referees.

Note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

The projectis due to start in May. Applications will be reviewed from 25th March until the position is filled.

For further information please contact [email protected] and visit our website .

About ETH Zürich

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.