Vacant job

The Department of Meteorology at Stockholm University (MISU) conducts research and teaching spanning the atmosphere, the ocean, and physics-based climate science. We offer degree programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Our research seeks answers to fundamental questions regarding the dynamic, physical, chemical, and biogeochemical properties of the atmosphere and oceans that are relevant to weather and climate. The research activity is broad, encompassing processes ranging from the deep ocean to the upper atmosphere, and from the tropics to the poles. We utilize and develop theory, statistical methods, and numerical models in close interaction with observations. Furthermore, the department develops and leads observation-based research supported by satellites, Arctic icebreaker expeditions, and land-based instruments.

MISU is part of a larger research environment at the university, including the Bolin Centre for Climate Research, the Baltic Sea Centre, and the Swedish e-Science Research Centre. The department is an international workplace, and more than half of the staff have backgrounds outside of Sweden. More information about us can be found at the Department of Meteorology.

Project Description

Turbulence is a fundamental property of atmospheric flows that transport heat and momentum across different scales. Turbulence constantly mixes the atmosphere in the planetary boundary layer near the Earth's surface. In the stratosphere, turbulence is rarer, more sporadic, and harder to predict and model. We aim to understand how large-scale processes in the atmosphere control when and where bursts of stratospheric turbulence occur. We also aim to evaluate how stratospheric turbulence is represented in global atmospheric models, where the largely non-turbulent stratosphere is often modeled using equations developed for the part of the boundary layer that is in constant motion.

Responsibilities

In your role as a postdoctoral researcher, you will have significant freedom to shape your project within the two overarching project goals, as well as freedom to choose an observation-based, modeling-based, or combined approach. For an observation-based focus, in situ data from aircraft, rockets, and balloons will likely be used. A modeling-based focus will likely concentrate on global kilometer-scale simulations, particularly from ICON and IFS, as well as the upcoming ERA6 reanalysis. Useful simulations are already available for analysis, meaning you do not need to run models yourself unless you wish to develop a new modeling experiment.

The research involves analyzing observations and/or model results, establishing and maintaining collaborations, visualizing and presenting scientific results, and authoring scientific publications. You will join a newly established research group at MISU and will therefore receive a high degree of individually tailored support. If desired, the project leader can also provide guidance on applying for external funding.

Qualifications

To be eligible for employment as a postdoctoral researcher, a completed doctoral degree or a foreign degree assessed as equivalent to a relevant doctoral degree is required. The degree must be completed by the time the employment decision is made.

Selection Criteria

The doctoral degree should be in meteorology, atmospheric science, oceanography, or another relevant subject. If the degree is from a different field, the applicant must describe their motivation for changing fields and how their own competencies can be applied within the position. It is meritorious if the doctoral degree or equivalent was completed no more than three years before the last day of application. If there are special reasons, a previously completed degree may also be considered meritorious. Special reasons include leave due to illness, parental leave, trust positions within trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.

During the appointment process, particular weight will be placed on scientific expertise within the area of employment. In addition, the applicant is expected to have very good programming skills (preferably in Python), excellent oral and written skills in English, and an interest in working in a group and building collaborations.

About the Position

The position is full-time for a minimum of two and a maximum of three years, with the possibility of extension under special circumstances. The start date is 2027-01-01 or by agreement. There is an opportunity to start earlier, but not later.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination, offering equal rights and opportunities for all.

Contact

Further information about the position can be obtained from Associate Professor Rachel Atlas, [email protected].

For information about the recruitment process and terms of employment, you are welcome to contact Administrative Manager Sara Engström, [email protected].

Application

You apply for the position via Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a cover letter and CV, as well as the attachments requested in the application form. As an applicant, you are responsible for ensuring the application is complete and submitted to the university no later than the last day of application.

Instructions for applicants are available on the webpage: how to apply for a position.

Stockholm University contributes to the development of a sustainable democratic society through knowledge, enlightenment, and the pursuit of truth.