Researcher (M/F) for the study of scale interactions in the ocean (theory/numerical modeling)

CNRS; France; Sur place; EUR 40 000 - 60 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

A research organization in France is seeking a researcher to setup and analyze numerical simulations for ocean dynamics. The role involves collaborations to optimize simulations, understand potential vorticity, and contribute to the MOTIONS project aimed at integrating advanced models for ocean analysis. Ideal candidates should hold a Ph.D. in physical oceanography or fluid mechanics and possess strong numerical modeling and programming skills. The position is full-time and offers a temporary contract.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. level in physical oceanography or fluid mechanics.
• Strong understanding of hydrodynamic processes.

Responsabilités

• Set up numerical simulations using the CROCO-NS code.
• Analyze results and develop diagnostics.
• Define and code diagnostics to analyze scale interactions.

Connaissances

Numerical modeling for hydrodynamics and ocean circulation

Programming of numerical codes

Analysis of physical and process data

Teamwork

Scientific rigor

Creativity

Autonomy in applying skills

Formation

Ph.D. level in physical oceanography or fluid mechanics

Description du poste

Organisation/Company CNRS Department Laboratoire d'Etudes en Géophysique et Océanographie Spatiales Research Field Environmental science Environmental science » Earth science Environmental science » Global change Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Country France Application Deadline 22 Dec 2025 - 23:59 (UTC) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 35 Offer Starting Date 1 Apr 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

Set up numerical simulations using the CROCO-NS code for different configurations and analyze the results by developing diagnostics highlighting scale interactions.

Activity 1: Numerical Simulations of the Strait of Gibraltar Region

• In cooperation with the project teams (LEGOS, LAéro, and other project participants)
• Set up configurations of the CROCO-NS model and optimize them to reduce computational cost; the configurations will be academic and realistic
• Define and code a number of diagnostics to analyze scale interactions (turbulent cascade, mixing) and their impacts on the characteristics of the Mediterranean gravity current and the generation of Meddies (Mediterranean vortices)
• Monitor potential vorticity and its evolution during turbulent phases, analyzing the respective impacts of diapycnal mixing and bottom friction on the dynamic characteristics of a gravity current

Activity 2: Participate in the discussion on extending the concept of potential vorticity to non-hydrostatic flows

• Fundamental studies on the evolution of potential vorticity in non-hydrostatic regimes
• Performance and analysis of numerical simulations of turbulent cascades; identification of diabatic transformation zones (related to viscosity and density mixing)

The position is part of the MOTIONS project, which aims to prepare the next generation of numerical models for ocean dynamics. These models will incorporate local refinements in key areas where very small-scale (non-hydrostatic) dynamics are dominant and can be modeled directly. The project's main objective is to implement this model integration and analyze the continuity of physical processes during downscaling.

Knowledge & Expertise

• Numerical modeling for hydrodynamics and ocean circulation; numerical analysis; understanding of hydrodynamic processes from small to geostrophic scales
• Ph.D. level in physical oceanography or fluid mechanics

Required Skills

• Programming of numerical codes
• Analysis of physical and process data

Personal Qualities

• Teamwork
• Scientific rigor
• Creativity
• Autonomy in applying skills