The Climate Dynamics Group at ETH Zurich is searching for a postdoctoral researcher to work on topics complementing existing research in the group. The Climate Dynamics Group, led by Prof. Robert Jnglin Wills, focuses on the atmospheric and oceanic processes shaping global and regional climate change. Our research uses a variety of approaches including climate modeling, physics-based theoretical understanding, and evaluation of climate model output and observational data with novel data science methods.  

As a postdoc in the Climate Dynamics Group, you will work collaboratively to define and pursue a major research project in climate dynamics. You are encouraged to bring your own project ideas, ideally related to one or more of the following broad themes: (1) the response of the tropical atmosphere and ocean to climatically relevant forcing on various timescales, (2) mechanistic understanding of climate model biases, or (3) the upscale influence of mesoscale and convective-scale processes on climate and climate change. This research would involve the analysis of climate model output and observational data and/or running climate model simulations (in CESM or ICON).

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

The position is fully funded for up to 18 months, and there are pathways to secure one’s own funding to extend the position. The position comes with the possibility to supervise master’s and bachelor’s students working on similar topics.

• Ph.D. in atmospheric science, oceanography, earth/environmental sciences, physics, applied mathematics, or a related field
• Excellent programming skills, preferably with experience applying these skills to climate modeling or climate data analysis
• Intellectual curiosity about the many interdisciplinary aspects of climate science
• Ability to pursue research independently and as part of a team (including the potential supervision of students)
• 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

• ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to a competitive salary, an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.
• The Climate Dynamics Group offers personalized mentoring, a stimulating research group environment embedded within a world-class climate science research institute, an international network of collaborators, and full funding of research costs (computing, conference travel, publication costs).

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents by 21 October 2024:

• Curriculum vitae (including a list of publications)
• A cover letter (1-2 pages) explaining your research interests and motivation to apply for this position
• 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: First half of 2025 with some flexibility.

Further information about  Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Robert Jnglin Wills, robert.jnglinwills@env.ethz.ch (no applications). Administrative requests should be directed to Barbara Wittneben, barbara.wittneben@env.ethz.ch.

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.