Research Scientist

Closing date: 23:59 on 20th May 2025.

By reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship may be possible under the Skilled Worker Route. Applicants wishing to consider the SWR must ensure that they are able to meet the points requirement before applying. There is further information about this on the UK Visas and Immigration Website.

We seek a talented post-doctoral scientist to develop innovative methods to represent and evaluate climate tipping points in a leading Earth system model. This research is part of the PROMOTE project (Progressing Earth System Modelling for Tipping Point Early Warning Systems) in the wider Forecasting Tipping Points research programme. The post will be based in the National Centre for Atmospheric Science, within the Department of Meteorology.

This research focuses on the North Atlantic Subpolar Gyre and the Greenland Ice Sheet. Tipping of these two systems has not been observed in the instrumental record and existing models rarely simulate tipping, therefore providing very few examples to study the consequences of simulated tipping. You will therefore develop methods to simulate tipping more efficiently in the UK Earth System Model (UKESM). You will also conduct research to evaluate the plausibility of the simulated tipping behaviour and to assess the meteorological impacts of tipping.

You will have:

• A PhD or equivalent research experience in mathematical or physical/Earth System sciences, or should expect to shortly receive one,
• Strong scientific analytical ability, creativity, self-motivation,
• Experience of working with weather/climate models and/or their output, or similar models and data,
• Good communication skills and the disposition to collaborate effectively with both internal and external project members.

Please note that candidates are required to be based in Reading for the entire duration of the contract. The position is to start as soon as possible for a period of 4 years.
Please also note that we will shortly advertise for another position with a similar skill set in this project (‘PROMOTE WP3’).

Interviews will be held: early June, date to be confirmed.

Contact Name: Dr Reinhard Schiemann
Contact Job Title: Associate Professor
Contact Email address: r.k.schiemann@reading.ac.uk

Alternative Contact Name:  Dr Andrea Dittus
Alternative Contact Job Title: Senior Research Scientist
Alternative Contact Email address: a.j.dittus@reading.ac.uk

We welcome applications from both external and internal candidates. As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role can be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Internal candidates should discuss this with their line manager prior to applying.

The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.

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