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- Tasks: Develop cutting-edge paleoclimate reanalyses and collaborate on an international research project.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Cambridge's Department of Geography.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in climate science while working with top researchers.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields and strong programming skills required.
- Other info: Fixed-term position with excellent career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 37694 - 46049 £ per year.
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position for a fixed term of 36 months to work on the ERC Synergy Grant FORAGER. The post will be based in the Department of Geography at the University of Cambridge and will work under the guidance of Dr Matt Osman.
Responsibilities
- The primary expected deliverable is the development of an updated generation of paleoclimate reanalyses spanning the Last Ice Age to the present, building on recent products developed by the C3PO research group.
- Synthesize and pair globally distributed paleoclimate proxy records (e.g. ice core geochemistry, terrestrial and marine biomarkers, speleothems) with ensembles of climate model simulations using probabilistic methods to produce dynamically consistent, spatially complete, and observationally coherent climate fields at decadal to centennial resolution.
- Emphasize uncertainty analytics, proxy system emulation, and the development of statistical spatiotemporal downscaling approaches to improve the gap between native climate-model resolution and end-user sub-regional or seasonal scales.
- Deliver a core explanatory component of the wider FORAGER project and collaborate across a large international and interdisciplinary consortium.
- Develop an independent research programme including work on Bayesian model–proxy comparison, modelling, probabilistic model weighting, or other aspects of climate/paleoclimate dynamics aligned with the broader ongoing research interests of the C3PO group.
Qualifications
- Applicants should hold a PhD (or be close to completion) in climate science, Earth system science, applied mathematics, physics, statistics, or a closely aligned discipline.
- Strong quantitative and scientific programming skills.
- Experience with Bayesian statistics, paleoclimate data, climate modelling, and/or data assimilation is desirable.
- The candidate must be highly motivated and have excellent time management, organisation, communication, and teamwork skills.
Salary and Terms
- Salary Ranges: Research Associate (Grade 7): GBP 37,694 - GBP 46,049.
- Research Assistant (Grade 5): GBP 33,002 - GBP 35,608.
- Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those without a PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level (Grade 5).
- Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will initially be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.
Additional Information
- More details on the role, including responsibilities and person specifications, are available in the Further Particulars document below.
- Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 36 months in the first instance.
- If you have any questions on the application process, please email Mrs Alessandra Uomo, HR Coordinator, at hr@geog.cam.ac.uk.
- Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Matt Osman at mo549@cam.ac.uk.
- The closing date for applications is 26th March 2026. Interviews expected week commencing 13 April 2026 or soon after.
- Please quote reference LC48712 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
Equality and Eligibility
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Paleoclimate Statistics and Dynamics (Fixed Term) in Cambridge employer: University of Cambridge
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate in Paleoclimate Statistics and Dynamics (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the climate science field, especially those who might know Dr Matt Osman or the C3PO group. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of Bayesian statistics and paleoclimate data. We recommend creating a mini-presentation about your past research and how it aligns with the FORAGER project. Show them you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; engage! After submitting your application through our website, follow up with a quick email to Dr Osman expressing your enthusiasm for the role. It shows initiative and keeps you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend or mentor to do a mock interview with you. Focus on articulating your experience with climate modelling and statistical methods clearly. The more comfortable you are, the better you’ll perform!
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate in Paleoclimate Statistics and Dynamics (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in climate science, statistics, or programming. We want to see how your skills align with the specific responsibilities of the Postdoctoral Research Associate role.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t hold back on showcasing your quantitative and scientific programming skills! Mention any experience you have with Bayesian statistics or paleoclimate data, as these are key for this position. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their technical prowess.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to explain your research interests and how they fit with the FORAGER project. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our website by clicking the 'Apply' button! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Don’t forget to quote reference LC48712 in your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest paleoclimate research and methodologies. Brush up on Bayesian statistics and any relevant programming skills, as these will likely come up during your interview. Being able to discuss recent advancements in the field will show your passion and expertise.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions related to climate modelling and data assimilation. Practise explaining complex concepts in a clear and concise manner. You might even want to prepare a few examples of how you've applied these techniques in your previous work or studies.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working with an international and interdisciplinary team, be ready to discuss your teamwork experiences. Share specific examples of how you’ve successfully collaborated on projects, highlighting your communication and organisational skills.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask thoughtful questions about the FORAGER project and the C3PO group’s ongoing research. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
