"Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Oceanography"

Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Oceanography

Location: Alexander Crum Brown Road, Edinburgh EH9 3FF, United Kingdom

School: GeoSciences, College of Science & Engineering

Contract Type: Fixed Term, 24 months (Full Time, 35 hours/week)

Work Pattern: Hybrid working (minimum 3 days/week on campus)

Salary: Grade UE07, £40,497 – £48,149 per annum

Job Reference: 12481

Closing Date: 21 June 2025, 06:59 AM BST

Interview Date: Around 25 June 2025 (Virtual)

The Opportunity

The University of Edinburgh is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Assistant (PDRA) to join the PROMOTE project, a cutting-edge, multi-institutional initiative funded by ARIA (Advanced Research and Invention Agency). The role focuses on using Earth System Modelling to study potential tipping points in the North Atlantic sub-polar gyre circulation due to Greenland freshwater flux.

You will use UKESM (UK Earth System Model) to generate calibrated model variants that are more sensitive to meltwater impacts—paving the way for early warning system innovations related to climate tipping points.

This is an exciting opportunity to work at the frontier of climate modelling, oceanography, and Earth system science, alongside national leaders in the field.

Key Responsibilities

• Run and calibrate UKESM ocean/sea-ice models to simulate sub-polar gyre dynamics
• Collaborate with PROMOTE team members across 7 UK institutions
• Contribute to high-impact journal publications and research dissemination
• Support future funding proposals related to climate tipping points and modelling
• Participate in local group activities and contribute to a strong modelling community at Edinburgh

Your Skills and Attributes for Success

Essential:

• PhD (or equivalent) in Physical Oceanography, Climate Sciences, or a numerate discipline such as Physics or Mathematics
• Proven experience running ocean models (from fjord to global scale)
• Strong computational and analytical skills
• Effective communicator with experience working in multidisciplinary teams
• Self-motivated, with the ability to work independently

Desirable:

• Experience calibrating models to observational datasets
• Familiarity with UKESM or similar coupled Earth system models
• Background in data assimilation or inverse methods

Application Instructions

Your application must include:

• Academic CV
• Cover Letter: Explain your interest in the role, your relevant experience, and highlight how you meet the essential and desirable criteria
• Scientific Highlight: Identify one publication you are most proud of and explain why

School of GeoSciences

Why Join Us?

As part of our team, you’ll benefit from:

• Working in one of the UK’s leading Earth system science communities
• Being part of the PROMOTE project, addressing urgent global climate questions
• Access to world-class computing infrastructure and collaborative research networks
• A supportive work culture with family-friendly and hybrid work options
• Comprehensive staff benefits, including generous holiday allowance, pension schemes, and wellbeing resources
• Reward calculator & benefits

Right to Work and Visa Sponsorship

• Visa sponsorship is available
• Applicants requiring a Skilled Worker Visa must meet UK Home Office English language criteria
• Right to work guidance

Equality and Inclusion

The University is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment.

We are proud to hold a:

• Silver Athena SWAN Award for advancing gender equality
• Membership in the Race Equality Charter
• Recognition as a Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champion