Postdoctoral Scholar Opportunities in Fundamental Fluid Processes in Climate Modeling at UChicago

The Department of Geophysical Sciences at the University of Chicago invites highly motivated and creative postdoctoral scholars to apply for two postdoctoral scholarship positions exploring Fundamental Fluid Processes in Climate Modeling, starting in Winter 2025. The positions are part of a Simons Foundation grant on “Fundamental Fluid Processes in Climate, Stellar, and Planetary Modeling” and will be supervised by Prof. Tiffany Shaw. The postdocs will study different problems related to regime transitions between horizontal & vertical transport (e.g. Radiative-Convective equilibrium and Radiative-Advective equilibrium) and wave induced transport of angular momentum in the tropical atmosphere (e.g. disruptions to the quasi-biennial oscillation) using theory, a hierarchy of numerical simulations and laboratory experiments. Both postdocs will also be part of an interdisciplinary collaboration team studying similar problems with applications in planetary science, atmospheric science, and oceanography.

Appointments will be for a one-year term, with the possibility to extend for a second year. The start dates are flexible. The salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. While the start date can be flexible, the position will become available from January 1, 2025 and will be open until filled. 

Minimum qualifications: 

Completed a doctoral degree in atmospheric science, climate science, fluid dynamics, or a related field at the time of appointment. However, we will seriously consider any outstanding candidates from other fields with rigorous training in mathematics and physics if they are strongly motivated to study the atmosphere and climate.

Demonstrated ability to address significant scientific questions using the scientific method. 

Demonstrated excellence in written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred qualifications: 

Strong background in at least one of the following areas: climate change, atmospheric/fluid dynamics, or machine learning. 

Capacity to analyze large datasets such as output from high-resolution models. 

Proficiency in numerical analysis and high-performance computing. 

Experience with atmosphere/climate models of various complexities.

Strong planning and organizational skills, with the capacity to effectively prioritize multiple tasks, set clear deadlines, and consistently meet them.

Applications/How to apply:

Please email Prof. Tiffany Shaw (tas1@uchicago.edu) with the following documents: (1) a cover letter stating the position you are interested in, (2) a curriculum vitae, and (3) the names and contact information of three references. We will begin reviewing applications on December 16, 2024, and the positions will remain open until filled. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

All University departments and institutes are charged with building a faculty from a diversity of backgrounds and with diverse viewpoints; with cultivating an inclusive community that values freedom of expression; and with welcoming and supporting all their members.

We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages diverse perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange. The University’s Statements on Diversity are at https://provost.uchicago.edu/statements- diversity

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-834-3988 or email equalopportunity@uchicago.edu with their request.