Scientist on EarthCARE Radar/Lidar Data Assimilation

at  ECMWF

THE TEAM

This position is based in the Physical Processes Team, responsible for the improved representation of atmospheric processes in the ECMWF forecast model and the exploitation of cloud and precipitation related observations for assimilation and model evaluation. The team is part of the Earth System Modelling Section of the Research Department. The successful candidate will report to the Physical Processes Team Leader and will work in close collaboration with teams in the Earth System Assimilation Section.
At ECMWF, you will find a passionate community, collectively aiming to build world-leading global Earth system models for numerical weather prediction. This effort supports ECMWF’s strategy of producing cuttingedge science and world-leading weather predictions and monitoring of the Earth system.

EDUCATION

• Advanced university degree (EQ7 level or above) in a physical, mathematical or environmental science, or equivalent professional experience

EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Experience with remote sensing of cloud and precipitation, preferably with radar and/or lidar
• Good knowledge of data assimilation, satellite data analysis or radiative transfer
• Strong programming skills, ideally in Python, Fortran, and UNIX shell scripting or equivalent
• Experience of working with Earth System models is desirable
• Experience in handling large observational and/or modelling datasets and their statistical analysis is desirable

THE ROLE

We have an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated scientist to advance our exploitation of satellite data in the ECMWF’s global forecasting systems. The role is to work on the first-ever operational NWP monitoring and assimilation of space-borne cloud radar/lidar data using measurements from the ESA-JAXA EarthCARE satellite, recently launched in May 2024. The successful candidate will exploit novel cloud and precipitation-related observations from EarthCARE by further developing existing observation operators for radar and lidar, optimizing the assimilation system, performing assimilation experiments and evaluating the impact on the analysis and forecasts. Once benefit has been shown, EarthCARE data will be included in the ECMWF 4D-Var data assimilation system to directly improve operational global numerical weather prediction.
The successful candidate will work with a small team on the ECMWF-led monitoring and assimilation component of the European Space Agency (ESA) funded Data, Innovation and Science Cluster (DISC) for the EarthCARE satellite. The aim of the DISC is to make new observational products exploitable as soon as possible after their launch and to make innovative use of the new information to push forward science and development. The DISC includes over 15 partners from across Europe, therefore some travel to meetings is expected.

MAIN DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Improving observation operators for radar/lidar using the latest scientific research
• Optimizing the assimilation system for the EarthCARE observations through adjustments to observation error definition, bias corrections, quality control and screening
• Performing observation monitoring and reporting to the EarthCARE DISC
• Performing assimilation experiments working towards operational use of the EarthCARE observations
• Preparation and timely delivery of project deliverables for the EarthCARE DISC
• Communicating and documenting scientific results and software developments in technical reports, journal publications, conferences and project meetings as appropriate