PhD positions in Climate Dynamics

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The newly formed Climate Dynamics group at ETH Zurich, led by Prof. Robert Jnglin Wills, seeks 2 PhD students to investigate future changes in the large-scale circulation of the atmosphere, the role of ocean-atmosphere coupling in climate variability and change, and/or the influence of the atmospheric circulation on regional climate change and extreme weather.

Project background

Using a combination of climate modeling, physics-based theoretical understanding, and data science methods, our group pursues research on a broad range of topics in climate science such as: (i) patterns of sea-surface temperature response to forcing on various timescales and their influence on the atmospheric circulation, (ii) the role of mesoscale (storm-scale) processes in the atmospheric response to anomalous surface conditions, (iii) mechanisms and predictability of earth system variability on interannual and longer timescales, and (iv) persistent atmospheric circulation anomalies and their role in extreme weather. These research topics are all part of broader mission to understand how global climate change manifests at the regional scale, in order to better contextualize extreme weather events in the modern climate and help society prepare for regional climate trends in the coming decades.

Job description

As a PhD student in the Climate Dynamics group, you will work collaboratively over 3+ years to define the main research direction of your PhD thesis. We have project ideas on topics such as persistent atmospheric circulation regimes and their role in extreme weather, storm-resolving climate modeling, the ocean’s role in climate variability and change, tropical climate change, and statistical and machine learning methods to identify the pattern of climate response to forcing, however, you are encouraged to bring your own expertise and pursue research in areas outside of but complimentary to these topics.

You have strong background in physics, math, and/or statistics, some specialized knowledge in one or more components of the coupled climate system (especially the atmosphere or ocean), and an intellectual curiosity about the many interdisciplinary aspects of climate science.

This position is fully funded for up to 4 years.

Your profile

• Master’s degree in atmospheric science, oceanography, earth/environmental sciences, physics, applied mathematics, or a related field.
• Strong background in physics, math, and/or statistics.
• Programming experience is preferred.
• Intellectual curiosity about the many interdisciplinary aspects of climate science.
• Ability to pursue research independently and as part of a team.
• Very good spoken and written English language skills for communication within the group and for the presentation of scientific results at international conferences and in written papers.

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer
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Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents by 16th of January 2023:

• Curriculum vitae (including a list of publications, if any, and indicating relevant coursework)
• A letter (1-2 pages) explaining your research interests and experience, any project idea(s) you may have, and your motivation to apply for this position
• Copies of BSc/MSc transcripts from which the grades are evident
• Names and contact details of two professional references.

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

Possible starting dates: Flexible between 1 April 2023 and 1 October 2023

Further information about  Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science can be found on our website www.iac.ethz.ch . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Robert Jnglin Wills, [email protected] (no applications). Administrative requests should be directed to Barbara Wittneben, [email protected] .

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.