Research Associate: Atmospheric Modelling

Institute for Modern; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Cambridge is seeking a Post-Doctoral Research Associate in Atmospheric Chemistry-Climate Modelling. The role involves developing models to study the environmental impacts of stratospheric aerosol injection. Candidates should have a PhD in physical sciences and experience in numerical modeling. Collaboration with international researchers is expected, along with independent work. The position offers a competitive salary and is funded for 3 years.

Qualifications

• Experience with atmospheric modelling and large dataset analysis.
• Expertise in stratospheric/tropospheric chemistry or atmospheric aerosols.

Responsibilities

• Develop and analyze model functionalities related to stratospheric aerosols.
• Run model simulations and analyze ozone and climate responses.

Skills

Problem-Solving

Numerical Models

Time Management

Education

PhD in Physical Sciences

Tools

Python

R

Matlab

Unified Model

Radiative Transfer Models

Job description

Post-Doctoral Research Associate in Atmospheric Chemistry-Climate Modelling

Funding for this position is available for 3 years initially.

Applications are invited for a 36-month post-doctoral research associate role funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and the Advanced Research + Innovation Agency (subject to contract negotiations). The successful candidate will join the atmospheric chemistry-climate modelling groups of Prof. Alex Archibald, Prof. Chiara Giorio, and Dr. Alison Ming. The role involves working across two projects investigating the environmental impacts of stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI) for solar radiation management (SRM). These projects include:

1. ECLIPSE – Evaluation of Climate Intervention through novel Potential StratEgies, led by Dr. Shaun Fitzgerald at the University of Cambridge.
2. SAIM – Natural Materials for Stratospheric Aerosol Injection, led by Prof. Hugh Hunt at the University of Cambridge.

The main research tools are the UKCA/UKESM1 and NAME models. Experience with either is highly desirable.

We seek a highly motivated, technically skilled physical scientist with a strong record of problem-solving using numerical models. The successful candidate will develop and analyze model functionalities related to the role of stratospheric aerosols and their effects on atmospheric chemistry and climate. Key tasks include developing code to simulate radiative properties of new SAI materials, running model simulations, extracting data from idealized stratospheric trajectories, and analyzing ozone and climate responses. Duties will be tailored to the candidate’s skills. The role involves collaboration with international researchers and requires good time management skills for independent work.

Qualifications include a PhD (or near completion) in physical sciences or relevant experience. Desirable fields include atmospheric science, computational mathematics, and physics. Experience with the Unified Model, atmospheric modelling, radiative transfer models like SOCRATES, large dataset analysis using Python, R, or Matlab, and HPC are essential. Expertise in stratospheric/tropospheric chemistry or atmospheric aerosols is also required.

The earliest start date is July 2025, with interviews likely in mid-June.

To apply, click the 'Apply' button above. Please upload your CV, covering letter, and publications list. Unrequested documents will not be considered.

For queries about the application process, contact [e-mail].

The Department holds an Athena SWAN silver award. The University promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion and encourages applications from all backgrounds. Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK.

Salary range: £32,546 – £45,413 per annum.