Research Assistant / Associate in experimental fluid mechanics to study cloud-turbulence

Location: South Kensington campus

About the role:

Applications are invited for a fully funded fixed-term at the Research Assistant / Associate (PostDoc) level in experimental fluid mechanics 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 “autoconversion”. 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 autoconversion and to assess newly-developed autoconversion parameterisations against historical and satellite data. Achieving this ambitious goal requires obtaining and analysing high-quality experimental datasets in highly turbulent flows.

What you would be doing:

You will conduct advanced laser-based diagnostics (particle image velocimetry, PIV and particle tracking velocimetry, PTV) in the flagship wind tunnel of the National Wind Tunnel Facility (the 10x5 wind tunnel) at Imperial College London, 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:

• PhD in fluid mechanics or related field
• Expertise in turbulence
• Expertise in experimental fluid mechanics, especially PIV/PTV
• Creative problem-solving skills and ability to work independently

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to perform state-of-the-art experiments for cloud-like turbulence
• The opportunity to interact with experts in the field (from the Met Office and Centre for Climate Research Singapore)
• Access to a state-of-the-art, high performance wind tunnel
• 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 are hoping that the successful candidate will start her/his contract on 1^st January  2026. The successful candidate will be supervised in the Department of Aeronautics at Imperial College London but will also interact with colleagues in the Departments of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Physics.

If you require any further details on the role please contact:

Oliver BUXTON – o.buxton@imperial.ac.uk.

Please note that job descriptions are not exhaustive, and you may be asked to take on additional duties that align with the key responsibilities mentioned above.

If you encounter any technical issues while applying online, please don't hesitate to email us at support.jobs@imperial.ac.uk. We're here to help.

About Imperial

Welcome to Imperial, a global top-ten university where scientific imagination leads to world-changing impact.

As a member of our vibrant community of 22,000 students and 8,000 staff, you’ll collaborate with passionate minds across nine London campuses and a global network.

Advert information