Two PhD Research Fellowships in Climate Dynamics University of Bergen in Norway

Two PhD Research Fellowships are available in Climate Dynamics at the Geophysical Institute, University of Bergen, Norway. The positions are affiliated with the Bjerknes Centre for Climate Research and the strategic GRADIENT project, Global Responses and Drivers of the Tropical Pacific Zonal SST Gradient Trend.

The project addresses an important climate dynamics problem: climate models do not consistently reproduce the historical trend in the tropical Pacific zonal sea surface temperature (SST) gradient, a discrepancy with implications for climate sensitivity, teleconnections, and regional climate projections. The successful candidates will join an interdisciplinary research environment with expertise in climate dynamics, paleoclimate, data assimilation, and climate and isotope modelling.

Research tasks include analyzing model simulations and a new paleo-reanalysis built with a state-of-the-art data assimilation system and a large collection of paleo-proxy records. The PhD fellows will also design and run targeted climate model experiments to investigate mechanisms linking tropical Pacific SST trends with external forcing and the effects on regional climate, including the Atlantic and Indian Oceans and East African rainfall trends.

The positions are full-time, fixed-term appointments for 3 years, with the possibility of a 4th year that may include teaching or other career-promoting work. The annual gross salary is NOK 593,700 in the state salary scale. One fellowship is financed by the GRADIENT project and one by the University of Bergen.

Applicants should have, or be close to completing, a master's degree in climate dynamics, meteorology, oceanography, physics, mathematics, or a related field. A strong background in mathematics and physics and experience with scientific programming such as Matlab or Python are required. Experience in statistical analysis of climate data and climate dynamics is considered an advantage. Strong English skills, independent working habits, structured work methods, and collaborative ability are also expected.

The application should include a statement of research interests and motivation, a detailed qualification statement addressing the requirements and preferred criteria, CV, transcripts and diplomas, proof of thesis submission if relevant, references/certificates, English documentation where needed, and a publication list with links. Two referees must be listed, including the main advisor for the master's thesis where applicable. Applications must be submitted via Jobbnorge by the deadline.

The University of Bergen emphasizes an inclusive research culture and welcomes applicants with disabilities, immigrant backgrounds, or gaps in their CV. The institution notes that public access rules may apply during recruitment.