Lehigh University’s Center for Catastrophe Modeling and Resilience is seeking a PhD candidate in Earth and Environmental Sciences to join the research group of Associate Professor Benjamin Felzer. The successful applicant will work closely with Dr. Felzer and postdoctoral fellow Richard Sullivan on projects involving the use of physics-based computer models to study Atlantic tropical cyclones, their landfall potential, and associated hazards such as compound flooding from storm surge and rainfall. The research will also explore the influence of climate variability phenomena like ENSO and other modes under both historical and future climate scenarios.

The position is ideal for candidates with a strong background in meteorology, atmospheric sciences, and statistics. Preference will be given to those who already hold a Master of Science degree. The research group is part of the newly established Center for Catastrophe Modeling and Resilience, which fosters interdisciplinary collaboration on natural disaster modeling and resilience, and is involved in high-impact research on climate change, land use, and ecosystem services.

Lehigh University’s Earth and Environmental Sciences department offers a vibrant academic environment with access to advanced resources and mentorship. The group’s research interests span terrestrial carbon cycling, biogeochemical modeling, and the impacts of land use and climate change on ecosystem services. The Center also provides opportunities to engage with broader catastrophe modeling topics, including disaster resilience and risk analysis.

Most graduate students in the College of Arts and Sciences receive some form of funding, though specific details for this position are not provided. Interested applicants should contact Dr. Benjamin Felzer at [email protected] for more information and apply through the College of Arts and Sciences graduate portal. For further details about the research group and the Center, visit Dr. Felzer’s profile and the Center for Catastrophe Modeling and Resilience website.

Key research keywords: Earth and Environmental Sciences, Catastrophe Modeling, Climate Change, Tropical Cyclones, Meteorology, Statistics, Physics-based Modeling, ENSO, Compound Flooding, Climate Variability.