Observation Based Research Scientist

Met Office

Cardington, UK

Description

The quality of Met Office products depends on the quality of the forecast models that allow us to predict the weather and climate. The models need to accurately represent key processes occurring in the atmosphere, to enable us to provide the general public and our customers with the most relevant and up-to-date meteorological information. In this unique role you will work with a team of experts here at our Cardington research station as you carry out a range of ground based weather observations. Using state of the art instruments like surface energy flux stations (up to 50m altitude), Doppler Lidars, microwave radiometers, a tethered weather balloon system, an instrumented van, and a small unmanned aircraft (UAS), you will gather these observations and conduct research in to how the atmosphere works. You'll then use these observations to assess and help us improve the performance of our Numerical Weather Prediction and Climate models. Aside from analysing the captured data and undertaking experiments, you'll also spend some of your time conducting research to develop new instruments which will allow us to harness even more information from the atmosphere in the future. Whilst primarily based at our Cardington research station, we also undertake remote research at other sites across the UK. As such, you'll need to have a flexible approach to your working location as some travel will be required from time-to-time.

Requirements

Along with a PhD in the physical sciences (or equivalent professional experience), you'll have worked with research grade meteorological instrumentation before, and you will understand the importance of data quality. You've got your eye on technological improvements in this area, so you'll understand where we can make improvements to our data collection methods and instruments. Enthusiastic and proactive, organised and efficient, you're a great team player used to maintaining superb attention to detail while working to tight deadlines. You've first-class communication skills too and can easily analyse and interpret data. Due to the nature of the role, you'll need to be prepared to spend some of your time working outdoors, hold a full valid driving licence and have a reasonable level of physical fitness.

More information and applications

Along with a competitive salary (£25,500 up to £35,040 for exceptional candidates + benefits), you can look forward to a corporate performance payment, Civil Service pension, 25 days holiday, enhanced maternity and adoption leave, plus excellent learning and development opportunities.

To find out more, and to apply online, please visit http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/about-us/jobs/current-vacancies/002654