Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Probabilistic Storylines of Climate Extremes

Reading; Reading; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Reading invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist in probabilistic storylines of climate extremes. The role focuses on developing a novel statistical framework to frame extreme event storylines in likelihood space, using conditional probabilities to separate dynamical and thermodynamic effects.

Work in the Department of Meteorology under Professor Ted Shepherd with co-supervision by Prof. Hayley Fowler, contributing to the EXTREME-FUTURES project.

Qualifications

• PhD in meteorology or related field.
• Proven track record through peer-reviewed publications.
• Proficiency in atmospheric data analysis.
• Strong written and communication skills.

Skills

Atmospheric data analysis

Multivariate statistics

Machine learning knowledge (desirable)

Education

PhD in meteorology or related field

Job description

Job description

Full-time, Fixed-term Contract (36 months)

The closing date for applications is 23:59 on 30th Nov 2026

Interviews will be held: 16-17th Dec 2026 (include a presentation during the interview slot)

By reference to applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship may be possible under 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 UK Visas and Immigration Website UK Visas and Immigration Website.

Postdoctoral research scientist at the University of Reading in probabilistic storylines of climate extremes

A postdoctoral research scientist post is available to develop a novel statistical approach to frame extreme event storylines in likelihood space, using conditional probabilities to distinguish between dynamical and thermodynamic effects. The post-holder will work in the Department of Meteorology under the supervision of Professor Ted Shepherd FRS, within the context of the EXTREME-FUTURES research project (https://gtr.ukri.org/projects?ref=UKRI2165), which is led by Professor Hayley Fowler FRS at Newcastle University and aims to create a seamless framework for attribution, forecasting and climate change risk assessment of extreme weather events. Professor Fowler will also co-supervise the post-holder. The University of Reading is a world-leading centre for meteorology and climate, with a large and vibrant community of early-career researchers, and with the ECMWF moving onto campus in 2027.

You will have:

• A PhD or equivalent in meteorology or a related field
• A proven track record in research, demonstrated through excellent peer-reviewed publications
• Proficiency in atmospheric data analysis
• Good written and communication skills
• Capability of independent thought
• Knowledge of multivariate statistical modelling, atmospheric dynamics, extreme weather events, climate variability and change, and weather and climate modelling

Knowledge of one or more of machine learning, causal effect networks, and climate storylines is desirable but not essential.

Informal contact details

Contact Name: Ted Shepherd

Contact Job Title: Grantham Professor of Climate Science

Contact Email address: [e-mail]

Alternative Contact Name: Hannah Cloke

Alternative Contact Job Title: Regius Professor of Meteorology and Climate Science

Alternative Contact Email address: [e-mail]

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.

£37,369 to £46,970 per annum. Grade 6