Research Scientist in Storylines of Extreme Weather Events

University of Reading; Reading; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

An esteemed educational institution is seeking a motivated researcher to analyze attribution storylines of extreme weather events. This role involves comparing existing storyline approaches to quantitatively describe how extreme weather events would differ in varying climates. Ideal candidates should have a PhD or equivalent experience, alongside strong analytical and programming skills. This position offers a full-time, fixed-term contract, and supports a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent experience in physical or mathematical sciences or expected soon.
• Knowledge of climate reanalyses and extreme weather dynamics.
• Experience analyzing climate reanalyses or similar datasets.

Responsibilities

• Analyse existing storyline simulations of recent extreme events.
• Examine consistency of storyline approaches for extreme events.
• Produce recommendations for future operational attribution.
• Collaborate with project partners in scientific community.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Programming skills

Effective communication

Education

PhD or equivalent experience in physical or mathematical sciences

Tools

Climate reanalyses

Job description

Full time, fixed term contract (up to 24 months)

Closing date: on 23:59, 5 January 2026

Interviews will be held: January 2026

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 .

We seek a motivated researcher to analyse attribution storylines of extreme weather events.

Extreme weather events are increasing in frequency and intensity, leading to more severe impacts. Understanding how these types of extreme event have already changed, and will change in the near-future, is of critical importance to inform decisions on adaptation.

This project will compare at least two existing storyline approaches to event attribution which are translating recent extreme weather events into different climates to quantitatively describe how those weather events and their impacts would be different in warmer or cooler ‘counter-factual’ worlds.

The Post-holder Will

• Analyse existing storyline simulations of recent extreme events produced with the 20 Century Reanalysis () and the systems
• Examine whether these storyline approaches are producing consistent estimates for how different types of extreme events have changed
• Produce recommendations for which approaches should be adopted for future operational attribution of different extreme event types
• Collaborate with project partners (Met Office, KNMI, ECMWF/C3S) and related projects within the scientific community

You Will Have

• or shortly expect to receive, a PhD or equivalent experience in physical or mathematical sciences
• knowledge of climate reanalyses and the dynamics of extreme weather events
• experience of analysing climate reanalyses or similar datasets
• the ability to communicate effectively and to develop and maintain productive collaborations
• excellent analytical, problem solving and programming skills

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.

Contact

Contact Name Prof. Ed Hawkins

Contact Job Title Professor of Climate Science

Contact Email address [e-mail]

Alternative Contact Name Prof. Ted Shepherd

Alternative Contact Job Title Professor

Alternative Contact Email address [e-mail]

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.