At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct high-resolution modelling to improve UK climate projections and storm track understanding.
- Company: Join a leading research team at the forefront of climate science.
- Benefits: Receive a tax-free stipend and cover tuition fees while gaining valuable experience.
- Other info: Collaborate with experts and expand your professional network in a dynamic research environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on climate predictions and contribute to vital environmental research.
- Qualifications: A background in climate science or related fields is preferred.
The predicted salary is between 32963 - 40289 £ per year.
The North Atlantic storm track drives changeable weather, ranging from rain-bringing depressions in autumn and winter to the blocking patterns that bring prolonged drought in spring and summer. In the last 12 months, the UK has experienced both: prolonged winter rainfall driving extreme flooding, and spring and summer drought. Despite this, almost every state-of-the-art climate model places the storm track too far equatorward and too zonal, a bias that has resisted decades of model development. Fixing this bias would significantly increase confidence in predictions of future UK climate, and the associated risks, as the latest Independent Assessment of UK Climate Risk (2026) highlights.
This project will quantify how much increased resolution over the storm track reduces this bias through enhanced air-sea coupling and latent heating (Schemm, JAMES, 2023). The researcher will use LFRic, the Met Office’s new state-of-the-art climate model, to embed local high-resolution grids over key parts of the North Atlantic, investigating how the strength of diabatic processes affects cyclone propagation and storm track biases. Complementary experiments with Isca, Exeter’s own simplified climate model, will isolate the role of diabatic heating more cleanly.
The researcher will shape these experiments from the outset, leading directions of their own choosing, such as the storm track’s response to climate change or tropical SST changes. Training will combine on-the-job supervision in model development, nested-grid configurations, large-dataset analysis and scientific writing with formal LFRic courses co-delivered by Sergeev, and courses in mid-latitude dynamics and atmospheric fluid dynamics from Catto, Thomson and Seviour.
The studentship coincides with a funded Isca development project, letting the researcher work alongside experienced Research Software Engineers, enhancing technical training. Visits to Sergeev’s group at Bristol and work with Morcrette’s group at the Met Office will link the researcher to operational model development and an extensive early-career network.
PhD Studentship: Fixing the North Atlantic storm track bias: high-resolution modelling for improved UK climate projections employer: University of Exeter
The University of Exeter is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With flexible working opportunities, generous annual leave, and a commitment to diversity and social justice, staff can thrive while contributing to meaningful initiatives that enhance student employability. Located in Exeter, this role provides a unique chance to engage with a diverse community and make a tangible impact on the future of underrepresented students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship: Fixing the North Atlantic storm track bias: high-resolution modelling for improved UK climate projections
✨Join Research Communities
Get involved with scientific research communities online, like ResearchGate or even niche forums related to your specific field of interest. These platforms often have internship listings and can put you in touch with researchers who are keen on mentoring interns like you!
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Keep an eye out for academic conferences or workshops happening in your area or even virtually. They’re fantastic networking opportunities where you can meet professionals who could help you land that internship you’re after. Plus, you can showcase your enthusiasm and ask about any upcoming openings!
✨Tap into University Resources
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✨Pitch Yourself to Labs
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We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship: Fixing the North Atlantic storm track bias: high-resolution modelling for improved UK climate projections
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Research Skills:In the scientific research field, your ability to conduct experiments and analyse data is key. Be sure to highlight any relevant coursework, lab experience or research projects you've been involved in. If you've used specific techniques or software (like Python for data analysis), mention them — they can really make your application shine!
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Make sure your CV is tailored to the internship you're applying for at University of Exeter. Include sections that detail relevant courses, projects, and any lab techniques you’re proficient in. If you've done any work that resulted in tangible outcomes (like publications or presentations), make sure to feature these prominently to showcase your potential!
Passion and Motivation Matter:Your cover letter is a chance to show your enthusiasm for the position and the field. Talk about what drives your interest in scientific research and how this internship at University of Exeter fits into your career goals. We're looking for passion here, so don’t hold back!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any certifications related to scientific research (like Good Laboratory Practice or safety training), definitely include them! This extra detail can set you apart and demonstrate that you're serious about working in the field. It shows you're prepared and understand the standards required in research settings.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Exeter
✨Master the Fundamentals
In scientific research, it's crucial to brush up on the basics of your field. Make sure you can discuss core concepts with confidence. We might be quizzed on specific methodologies or experimental designs related to the projects University of Exeter is involved in, so be prepared to showcase your understanding.
✨Your Passion Matters
As an intern, showing enthusiasm for the research area can set you apart. Make sure to articulate why you're excited about this specific role at University of Exeter and how it aligns with your learning goals. Your potential to grow and learn is just as important as your current skill set!
✨Soak Up Online Resources
Utilise online resources and journals to familiarise yourself with recent developments in your chosen research area. If University of Exeter is working on groundbreaking studies, knowing about them can really impress your interviewers and show you've done your homework.
✨Practical Experience Counts
If you have any lab work or relevant projects, prepare to discuss them in detail. Even if it's a class project, understanding the results and what you learned will help demonstrate your practical skills. We can also consider having a digital portfolio ready for specific examples, just in case!
