Snr Research Scientist/Research Scientist (Numerical Weather Prediction Branch)

National Environment Agency; Singapore; On-site; SGD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental agency in Singapore is seeking a candidate for a research position involving numerical weather prediction. The role requires advanced knowledge in atmospheric sciences and programming skills in Fortran and Python. You will work with local and international partners, publish findings in peer-reviewed journals, and engage with diverse stakeholders. A PhD and postdoctoral experience are highly desirable, along with a passion for delivering impactful research. This opportunity offers a chance to contribute to societal benefits through scientific advancement.

Qualifications

• Degree in relevant scientific field.
• Experience in scientific programming.
• Postdoctoral research experience highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Keep updated on km-scale local NWP research.
• Test and optimize ensemble prediction capabilities.
• Liaise with MSS forecasters for product development.

Skills

Scientific programming (Fortran, Python)

Communication skills

Interest in societal benefits

Education

BSc/Master degree/PhD in atmospheric/computer/data science, mathematics, physics

Tools

High Performance Computing (HPC)

Job description

What the role is:

The Centre for Climate Research Singapore (CCRS) is a division of the Meteorological Service Singapore (MSS). At CCRS, our mission is to advance scientific understanding of tropical climate variability and change and its associated weather systems affecting Singapore and the wider Southeast Asia region, so that the knowledge and expertise can benefit decision makers and the community. Our vision is to be a world leading centre in tropical climate and weather research focusing on the Southeast Asia region. Within CCRS, the Department for Weather Research (DWR) leads the research and development (R&D) of our core ‘SINGV’ physical modelling system for convective-scale weather and climate change applications in the Southeast Asia region. DWR also oversees broader R&D (e.g., AI-based prediction, data assimilation, etc.) and the research to operations (R2O) transition of numerical weather prediction (NWP) capabilities with lead times up to two days ahead. The DWR works closely with CCRS’s Department of Climate Research (DCR) and High Performance Computing (HPC) Branch, and MSS forecasters. Externally, CCRS is developing strategic collaborations with local universities and research institutes through the recently formed Climate and Water Research Alliance Singapore (CAWRAS). CCRS also works closely with a number of international organisations including the UK Met Office, Australian Bureau of Meteorology, and US National Centre for Atmospheric Research (NCAR). Since 2022, CCRS has been a core member of the international Momentum (formerly Unified Model - UM) partnership. The DWR Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) Branch is specifically responsible for R&D in numerical model and data-driven (AI) weather prediction (from rainfall nowcasting to 1-2 day NWP), verification techniques, and NWP post-processing. The NWP Branch also works closely with CCRS’s HPC Branch to transition NWP system via the R2O process, liaising closely with MSS’s Weather Services Division and local agencies to consider local stakeholder requirements of downstream applications e.g. aviation, flooding, etc.

What you will be working on:

The specific job responsibilities of this position include:

• Keeping abreast of the latest research development in km-scale local NWP, including both physical and data-driven (AI) approaches.
• Testing, evaluating and optimising CCRS’ ensemble prediction capabilities, including changes to model science and workflow orchestration.
• Liaising with MSS weather forecasters and external stakeholders to support further development of ensemble-based NWP products and promote probabilistic forecasts.
• Working in collaboration with CCRS’ local and international strategic partners to leverage research and development in the wider community to enhance CCRS’ ensemble prediction capabilities.
• Publishing research outcomes in peer-reviewed publications and presenting findings at international meetings

What we are looking for:

The job might be for you if you possess the following:

• BSc/Master degree/PhD in atmospheric/computer/data science, mathematics, physics, or a related field.
• High level of proficiency in scientific programming (e.g., Fortran, Python) and experience using HPC.
• Good written and verbal communication skills, including publications in reputable refereed journals.
• At least 3-year postdoctoral research experience in weather/climate modelling, artificial intelligence, mathematical modelling and advanced data analytics (highly desirable)
• Familiarity with NWP systems and ensemble prediction (highly desirable).
• Experience working as part of a multi-disciplinary, international scientific team (desirable)
• Ability to work effectively to deadlines on individual projects and as part of a diverse team.
• Interest and passion to deliver relevant R&D for societal benefits.
• Ability to network effectively with the local and international research community.
• Ability to engage and communicate with scientists and stakeholders from diverse communities

As part of the shortlisting process for this role, you may be required to complete a medical declaration and/or undergo further assessment.

About National Environment Agency

The National Environment Agency (NEA) is the leading public organisation responsible for ensuring a clean and sustainable environment for Singapore. Its key roles are to improve and sustain a clean environment, promote sustainability and resource efficiency, maintain high public health standards, provide timely and reliable meteorological information, and encourage a vibrant hawker culture. NEA works closely with its partners and the community to develop and spearhead environmental and public health initiatives and programmes. It is committed to motivating every individual to care for the environment as a way of life, in order to build a livable and sustainable Singapore for present and future generations.