Research Associate/Senior Research Associate in Greenhouse Gas Inverse Modelling (x2 posts)

University of Bristol; Bristol; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Bristol seeks a research associate for greenhouse gas modelling and data analysis. This role involves collaboration on national and international projects, developing models, and analyzing emissions data to support climate agreements. Ideal candidates will have a postgraduate qualification in relevant fields and strong computational skills.

Qualifications

• Postgraduate research qualification expected or obtained.
• Strong computational skills required.
• Familiarity with Bayesian methods and atmospheric science desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and utilize greenhouse gas modelling and data analysis frameworks.
• Collaborate with international greenhouse gas monitoring networks.
• Run numerical atmospheric dispersion models and apply Bayesian inference frameworks.

Skills

Computational skills

Bayesian methods

Atmospheric science

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Postgraduate research qualification in physical sciences, computing, mathematics, or related fields

Job description

The role

We are seeking a research associate to develop and utilize greenhouse gas modelling and data analysis frameworks for national and global emissions evaluation. This role involves atmospheric observations of greenhouse gases and ozone-depleting substances, contributing to UK-wide and international projects such as:

1. The UK Greenhouse Gas Emissions Measurement and Modelling Advancement (GEMMA), which aims to develop the next-generation operational greenhouse gas emissions evaluation system for the UK.
2. The Horizon Europe project, PARIS (Process Attribution for Regional Emissions), collaborating with 8 national inventory agencies to improve European greenhouse gas emissions data.
3. The NERC Highlight Topic, InHALE (Investigating HALocarbon impacts on the global Environment), estimating regional emissions of potent greenhouse gases and ozone-depleting substances worldwide.
4. The org project, a cloud-based platform for greenhouse gas data analysis.

The post-holder will run numerical atmospheric dispersion models, applying Bayesian inference frameworks to estimate surface fluxes from in situ and satellite observations. These emissions data will support tracking progress on climate agreements, enhancing national inventories, informing mitigation strategies, and understanding natural emission variations.

What will you be doing?

You will collaborate with UK, European, and international greenhouse gas monitoring networks to interpret measurement data through atmospheric models. You will have opportunities to develop and refine models of varying complexity, analyze regional emissions using high-resolution simulations, and employ Bayesian inverse modelling techniques to combine data and estimate uncertainties.

You will work closely with a team of approximately 10 researchers within the ACRG, engaging with projects like InHALE, GEMMA, and PARIS, as well as with international colleagues in the AGAGE and NOAA networks.

You should apply if

You are an ambitious, self-motivated researcher holding or expecting to obtain a postgraduate research qualification in physical sciences, computing, mathematics, or related fields. Strong computational skills are essential. Familiarity with Bayesian methods and atmospheric science is desirable. Excellent communication and teamwork skills are also required.

The position is initially offered for 1-2 years, with potential for extension, starting as soon as possible.

Additional information

For informal enquiries, contact Prof. Matt Rigby at [e-mail].

Contract type: Open-ended with fixed funding until 31/08/2027

Work pattern: Full-time

Grade: I or J/Pathway 2

Salary: £38,249-£44,128 (Grade I) or £42,882-£48,149 (Grade J) per annum, depending on experience

Application deadline: 23:59 UK time on 18/06/2025

Interviews expected: 26th June 2025

Our strategy and mission

We recently launched our strategy for 2030, aligning our mission, vision, and values. The University of Bristol aims to foster an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential. We value diversity and are committed to attracting, developing, and retaining individuals of varied backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, including people of colour, LGBT+ individuals, and disabled persons, recognizing that diversity is vital to our excellence as a global civic institution.