Machine Learning Scientist for Weather and Climate

ETH Zürich Center for Climate Systems Modeling

Machine Learning Scientist for Weather and Climate (Varda project)

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Center for Climate Systems Modeling (C2SM) at ETH Zurich, in partnership with the Federal Office of Meteorology and Climatology (MeteoSwiss), is pioneering innovative methods to leverage machine learning for numerical weather forecasting and climate modeling.

Project background

We are looking for a motivated Machine Learning Scientist to join the development team of the Varda machine learning weather prediction system. The model is being trained using archive data from MeteoSwiss operational forecasts and observations, with the objective to provide accurate and fast forecasts for the short- to medium term. A central component of this effort is Anemoi, a framework developed by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) to support AI applications in weather and climate science.

Job description

• Further develop and train machine learning model in Anemoi with a focus on regional weather predictions
• Improve the system by integrating observation data or working on ensemble methods
• Work on integrating the machine learning pipeline into production
• Fine tune and validate model against existing numerical model and observations
• Curate and validate ML training datasets

The position is limited to two years.

Profile

• University degree (MSc or PhD) in data science, computer science, physics or a related field
• Experience in training and validating large-scale deep-learning models on distributed systems
• Strong programming skills in Python and familiarity with a modern ML stack (e.g., PyTorch, hydra, zarr, dask) and best practices MLOps
• Experience in handling and processing large datasets or experience in high-performance computing (HPC) is an advantage
• Experience with weather and climate applications and weather ensemble forecasting is an advantage
• You are creative, solution-oriented and have excellent communication skills and the ability to work with interdisciplinary teams
• Good knowledge of spoken and written English

Workplace

We offer

• Unique opportunities to develop state-of-the-art Machine Learning system and shape the future of weather forecasting
• You will join a dynamic team operating at the intersection of cutting-edge research and real-world applications
• We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and offer flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance for all team members

chevron_right Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• CV
• Motivation letter
• List of references

Further information about C2SM can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr Xavier Lapillonne, xavier.lapillonne@meteoswiss.ch (no applications).

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.