Research Scientist in Storylines of Extreme Weather Events

University of Reading; West Hagbourne; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A UK-based research institution is seeking a motivated researcher to analyse attribution storylines of extreme weather events. The position offers a full-time, fixed-term contract for up to 24 months. Ideal candidates will have a PhD or equivalent experience in physical or mathematical sciences, along with strong analytical and programming skills. Responsibilities include analysing climate data, collaborating with project partners, and developing attribution methods. Applications from diverse backgrounds are encouraged.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent experience in physical or mathematical sciences.
• Knowledge of climate reanalyses and dynamics of extreme weather events.
• Experience in analysing climate reanalyses or similar datasets.
• Ability to communicate effectively and develop collaborations.
• Excellent analytical, problem solving and programming skills.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Programming skills

Communication skills

Education

PhD or equivalent in physical or mathematical sciences

Job description

Job Overview

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 UK Visas and Immigration Website.

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.

Responsibilities

• Analyse existing storyline simulations of recent extreme events produced with the 20th Century Reanalysis (20CRv3) and the DESTIN-E 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

Qualifications

• 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

Additional Information

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

Prof. Ed Hawkins, Professor of Climate Science, [e-mail]

Prof. Ted Shepherd, Professor, [e-mail]

Diversity and Inclusion

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.