Research Associate in Atmospheric Dynamics

About the role

We are seeking a Research Associate to study how the lower and middle atmosphere drive and control the dynamics of the Earth's upper mesosphere, lower thermosphere, and ionosphere (MLTI), a critical boundary region linking the atmosphere below and space above! You will primarily focus on the role of atmospheric gravity waves in this driving. 

The MLTI is by far the least-understood part of the atmospheric system, and our knowledge of how it varies over time and space is very limited. You will support the NERC-funded DRIIVE and MesoS2D projects, two major projects aimed at understanding this complex atmospheric region. Both projects are multi-institution programmes combining novel observations and cutting-edge atmospheric models to characterise and understand the MLTI system.

Working with colleagues at a wide range of UK and international institutions, you will use NASA and ESA satellites, supported by ground-based instruments and reanalysis output, to measure the effects of small-scale atmospheric ('gravity') waves. You'll examine these measurements to identify the signatures of phenomena such as local and regional weather, the output of the sun, El Nino and the Madden-Julian Oscillation. You will compare these observed effects to simulations run using the leading WACCM weather model, and to ionospheric data from the state-of-the-art EISCAT-3D radar. The ultimate goal of both projects is to drive a step-change in our knowledge of and ability to predict the MLTI, and you will play a key role in delivering this goal.

This position is available full time, fixed term with an expected end date of 26th August 2025.

About you

Our ideal candidate will have:

• A PhD or equivalent in a relevant subject area
• An understanding of atmospheric dynamics and/or atmospheric remote sensing
• The ability to organise and prioritise own workload
• Proficiency in analysis and interpretation of geophysical scientific data

Further information

As a member of Research Staff at the University of Bath, you will be encouraged to take up a minimum of 10 days professional development pro rata per year.

You will join a growing atmospheric dynamics research group led by Prof Wright, and work with colleagues studying topics as diverse as the triggering of dramatic sudden stratospheric warming events, ways to improve the accuracy of innovative weather models, and identifying techniques to better predict extreme hurricanes and typhoons. 

What we can offer you:

• A very generous employer contributory pension scheme
• Generous annual leave allowance with an additional 5 discretionary days so that you can enjoy a positive work life balance
• We are a family-friendly University and with an increasingly agile workforce, are open to flexible working arrangements
• An excellent reward package that recognises the talents of our diverse workforce
• A wide range of personal and professional development opportunities
• A number of support options available for new and existing staff to help with the cost of some immigration expenses which you may be eligible for: Relocation allowance, Visa Reimbursement, Interest-Free Loan.