Research Scientist (North Atlantic Climate Tipping Points, PROMOTE WP3)

By reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship may be possible under the Skilled Worker Route. Applicants wishing to consider the SWR must ensure that they are able to meet the points requirement before applying. There is further information about this on the UK Visas and Immigration Website .

Closing date: 23:59 on 11 June 2025

Interview date: 23 June 2025

We seek a talented post-doctoral scientist to carry out research to better understand the predictability of subpolar North Atlantic tipping points.

Full time, fixed term position up to 30 Months, and is available to start immediately.

Tipping points, where the climate system undergoes rapid and abrupt changes, or changes that are irreversible on societal timescales, are one of the most uncertain and potentially impactful consequences of a warming climate. The North Atlantic subpolar gyre and the Greenland Ice Sheet are two such suspected tipping points with the potential to drastically change European weather. However, there is a large uncertainty in the processes that are leading to such tipping points and it is currently unknown how predictable these events could be.

To make progress, you will use statistical and physical models to improve our understanding of the predictability of subpolar North Atlantic tipping points and identify the regions and variables that enable successful predictions. Additionally, you will work to understand the physical processes that are shaping subpolar tipping points and their representation within earth system models.

You will have:

1. PhD (or shortly expect to receive) or equivalent experience in mathematical or physical science
2. Strong scientific analytical ability, and self-motivation
3. Experience of analysing output from climate models or similar datasets
4. Good communication skills
5. The disposition to collaborate effectively with both internal and external project members

The post will be based in the National Centre for Atmospheric Science, within the Department of Meteorology, and is part of the PROMOTE (Progressing Earth System Modelling for Tipping Point Early Warning Systems) project, funded under the Forecasting Tipping Points (FTP) programme of the ARIA.

Please note that candidates are required to be based in Reading for the entire duration of the contract.

Application guidance:

Candidates should include a cover letter indicating their interest in the role and motivation for applying.

Contact Name: Jon Robson

Contact Job Title: Professor

Contact Email address:

Alternative Contact Name: Ed Hawkins

Alternative Contact Job Title: Professor

Alternative Contact Email address:

The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.