Postdoctoral Appointee - Convective Storms and Severe Weather

Argonne National Laboratory; Lemont (IL); On-site; USD 72,879 - 121,465; Full time

Job summary

Argonne National Laboratory is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to enhance severe weather prediction through physics-based and AI/ML approaches. The successful candidate will conduct high-resolution simulations and contribute to model development while publishing findings and collaborating with the Earth system science community.

This role requires a Ph.D. in Atmospheric Science or related field, strong numerical modeling skills, and proficiency in programming languages like Python and C++. The position offers a comprehensive benefits package and a competitive salary range of $72,879.00-$121,465.00.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. typically completed within the past 0–5 years in Atmospheric Science or a related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in convective storms, precipitation processes, or severe winds.
• Strong experience in numerical modeling and high-performance computing.

Responsibilities

• Conduct high-resolution model simulations of convective storms.
• Contribute to model development using AI/ML approaches.
• Analyze model outputs alongside observational datasets.

Skills

Numerical modeling

High-performance computing

AI/ML methods

Scientific writing

Team collaboration

Data analysis techniques

Education

Ph.D. in Atmospheric Science or related field

Tools

Python

Fortran

C++

Job description

Position Overview

The Environmental Science Division at Argonne National Laboratory seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to advance the understanding and prediction of severe weather using both physics-based and AI/ML approaches. This position focuses on high-resolution Earth system modeling and the analysis of convective storms and weather and hydrological hazards to improve predictability, particularly at subseasonal and seasonal lead times. The successful candidate will lead simulations of convective systems using high-resolution regional and global models, evaluate model performance, and develop innovative approaches to enhance predictive skill. The role also involves integrating AI/ML techniques to advance physical parameterizations and improve severe weather prediction skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Conducting high-resolution model simulations of convective storms
• Contributing to model development using AI/ML approaches in areas such as clouds, turbulence, land–atmosphere interactions, and aerosol–cloud interactions
• Analyzing model outputs alongside observational datasets to advance physical understanding
• Publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals and presenting results at scientific meetings
• Collaborating closely with scientists in the broad Earth system Science community and with industry partners

Position Requirements

• Ph.D. (typically completed within the past 0–5 years) in Atmospheric Science or a related field
• Demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas: convective storms, precipitation processes, severe winds, land–atmosphere interactions, or aerosol–cloud interactions
• Strong experience in numerical modeling and high-performance computing
• Experience applying AI/ML methods to model development, with strong programming skills (e.g., Python, Fortran, C++)
• Knowledge of data analysis techniques and statistical methods
• Proven scientific writing and oral communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment, with creativity and strong organizational skills
• Commitment to upholding Argonne’s core values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience applying AI/ML algorithms to severe weather prediction
• Proficiency in C++ and experience running simulations on GPU-based systems
• Familiarity with convection-permitting models such as E3SM and ERF

Pay Range and Benefits

The expected hiring range for this position is $72,879.00-$121,465.00. Compensation will be determined based on scope, qualifications, and other factors. Comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

Employment Conditions

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check and may require a government access authorization. Failure to obtain or maintain such authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.

Equal Employment Opportunity

As an equal employment opportunity employer, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.