Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Nelson Institute Center for Climatic Research

Role of Low-Level Clouds in the Accelerated Warming of the Great Lakes – A Dual Observational and Regional Modeling Assessment

We are exploring the cause of the recent accelerated warming of the Great Lakes in comparison to the overlying air.  We are testing the hypothesis that an earlier melt of lake ice leads to a warmer lake surface in summer, diminished over-lake low-cloud / fog formation, and greater surface downward shortwave radiation, supporting an accelerated lake warming.  The project is funded by the National Science Foundation and is a collaborative effort between the University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. 

The successful candidate will perform and analyze climate simulations of the Great Lakes region, using the International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) Regional Climate Model Version 4 (RegCM4) coupled to both a one-dimensional lake model and the Regional Ocean Model System (ROMS).  S/he must have strong scientific writing and programming skills with an ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals.  Regarding programming skill, s/he must be experienced in Fortran, data analysis / visualization software (e.g. NCL, GrADS, matlab, ferret), and various data formats (e.g. netcdf, binary).  Regional climate modeling experience, particularly with RegCM4, is preferred.  A Ph.D. in atmospheric science, climatology, limnology, or a related field is desirable. 

This is a two-year, full-time position.  Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience.  Full benefits, including health insurance, are provided.  We wish to hire the new postdoctoral research associate during Fall 2012.

We seek candidates who work well in a collaborative setting, have excellent verbal and written communication abilities, and possess creative problem-solving skills.

The Nelson Institute Center for Climatic Research (CCR) is a leading research center in the study of past, present, and future climates.   Established in 1962, CCR is home to 13 research scientists and professors, 9 postdoctoral researchers, and 14 students who are actively engaged in the physical, ecological, and societal impacts of climate change.  

To apply, please send us a cover letter summarizing your research interests and background, a CV that spells out this experience, and the contact information for three references.  This material should be sent to Dr. Michael Notaro (mnotaro@wisc.edu) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.