Research Assistant/Associate in computational fluid dynamics to study cloud-turbulence

About the role:

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant/Associate in Computational fluid dynamics to study cloud-turbulence.

Rain formation is a critical part of the planetary energy balance yet the uncertainties in our ability to predict it are high. A large portion of this uncertainty is driven by the as-yet unknown interactions between high Reynolds number cloud-turbulence and liquid water droplets in clouds. This uncertainty can lead to a lack of accuracy in numerical weather prediction, driving uncertainty in future climate projections. Cloud adjustments in climate models are represented through changes to processes converting cloud water to rain, known as “auto-conversion”. Cloud droplets initially form via condensation of humid air; however, the formation of raindrops is accelerated by the turbulence-driven collision/coalescence process between these smaller droplets.

The objective of this project is to reduce uncertainty in parameterisations of auto-conversion and to assess newly developed auto-conversion parameterisations against historical and satellite data. Achieving this ambitious goal requires performance and analysis of high-fidelity simulations of droplet dynamics in highly turbulent flows.

What you would be doing:

You will perform high-fidelity simulations of cloud-like turbulence in various set-ups with a focus on better understanding how turbulence and associated intermittency can impact droplet dynamics, and hence rain formation in clouds. Furthermore, you will contribute towards developing more accurate numerical weather prediction models based on your findings.

What we are looking for:

• Hold a PhD in high performance computing, and/or computational fluid dynamics, or a closely related discipline, or equivalent research, industrial or commercial experience (Associate level); or a first/masters degree (or equivalent) in fluid mechanics, and/or computational fluid dynamics, or a closely related discipline (Assistant level)
• Knowledge of turbulence and cloud dynamics
• Practical experience in high performance computing and/or computational fluid dynamics, especially DNS or LES
• Creative approach to problem-solving
• Ability to organise own work with minimal supervision

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to perform state-of-the-art simulations of cloud-like turbulence
• The opportunity to interact with experts from the Met Office and Centre for Climate Research Singapore
• The opportunity to contribute to DALES & SPARKLE, two open-source framework flow solvers dedicated to the study of turbulent flows on supercomputers
• Access to state-of-the-art high performance computing facilities
• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• Grow your career: Gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes).

Further Information

We anticipate that this role will start on 1 July 2025. The successful candidate will be based in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering but will work across the Departments of Aeronautics and Physics.  

Please refer to the job description for full details and essential requirements for the post.

This is a fixed term post for 2 years.

For informal enquiries about the post please contact Maarten van Reeuwijk on m.vanreeuwijk@imperial.ac.uk.

For queries regarding the recruitment process please contact Briony Webb on b.webb@imperial.ac.uk.

Advert information