PostDoc position: Weather4UN – Globally consistent impact forecasting of extreme weather events with the CLIMADA platform

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

We invite applications for a 2-year PostDoc position within the Weather4UN Project. The main goal of this interdisciplinary project is to enable easy access to authoritative weather, water and climate information and the provision of expert advice to the humanitarian community in order to anticipate and better prepare for and respond to disasters, emergencies and crises. Among other activities the projects aims to simulate the risks of upcoming events over different time horizons in order to inform forecast-based financing and decisions, and ultimately trigger early action at the national level.

Job description

You will be working at the interface of physical weather modeling and the socio-economic outcomes of extreme weather events. In particular, the goal is to design and implement a modular interface between a probabilistic multi-hazard risk-modelling tool and hydromet forecast model data. You will use latest numerical weather ensemble prediction models and maps of expected flood inundation extents to quantify impacts on assets, infrastructure and people worldwide, yet at high (down to 1 kilometer) resolution on the open-source and -access Python-based CLIMADA platform . Using state-of-the-art probabilistic modelling CLIMADA allows to estimate multi-hazard socio-economic impacts on diverse spatio-temporal scales, e.g. from impact-based warning applications (regional to local, timescale of days) to providing an open and independent global (yet still high-resolution) view on physical risk (including tail risk quantification) for strategic decision-making. Based on newly developed model components, the integration of CLIMADA into operational, impact-based warning systems aiming to provide sector-specific information to users will be prototyped. Scientists and stakeholders from various disciplines and institutions will collaborate closely to advance impact-based forecasting worldwide. We therefore seek a person who is highly motivated to work in such environment of inter-and transdisciplinary spirit.

Your profile

A PhD degree (or equivalent) in atmospheric, climate, or environmental science, but applications from other relevant backgrounds and/or industry experience with demonstrated knowledge of natural hazard or impact modeling are welcome. Besides being enthusiastic about weather impact research, you should have a strong quantitative background. Solid Python and OOP programming skills and willingness to contribute to open-source development are required. Familiarity with risk concepts and the ability to work and communicate effectively across disciplines are desired. You are expected to be fluent in English.

The expected starting date is January 1, 2022 and the position (80-100% working contract, salary follows ETH regulations ) is available for a duration of 2 years with the possibility to extend to a maximum of 4 years.

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