Reto Knutti

This postdoctoral position at ETH Zürich focuses on advancing the application of artificial intelligence (AI), large language models (LLMs), and machine learning to extract trustworthy climate information from large-scale geospatial and Earth system datasets. The research is embedded within the NCCR CLIM+ program, which aims to bridge climate science and AI by developing novel methods for climate data analysis, downscaling, and synthesis using foundation models such as Google Earth AI, AlphaEarth, and TerraTorch on a high-performance computing platform. The successful candidate will design, develop, and apply AI/ML methods—including LLMs and foundation models—to extract, synthesize, and reason about climate information from satellite, reanalysis, and climate model datasets. The role involves advanced physics-aware machine learning for kilometer-scale climate process representation, implementing generative AI models for high-resolution climate downscaling, data assimilation, emulation, and post-processing of weather-to-climate predictions. Methods for uncertainty quantification in projections of extreme weather and climate hazards will also be developed. The researcher will work with multimodal Earth system data, including satellite, airborne, in-situ, reanalysis, and high-resolution climate model outputs. Responsibilities include building robust, scalable software tools and data pipelines for processing large geospatial datasets, enabling CLIM+ project partners and the broader research community to leverage AI-driven climate information. Maintaining reproducible research workflows using modern software engineering practices (version control, testing, documentation, containerization) is expected. Original, publishable scientific research generating novel insights at the intersection of AI and climate science is a core component. The researcher will write and submit peer-reviewed journal papers, present at international conferences, and contribute to NCCR CLIM+ reporting and grant proposals. Collaboration with research groups at ETH Zürich (Prein, Knutti, Fischer) and the University of Zurich (Leippold, Vaghefi, Colesanti Senni) is integral to aligning AI development with climate science research questions. Participation in CLIM+ programme activities, workshops, and cross-project initiatives is encouraged, as is contributing to the supervision of students and interns. Applicants must hold a PhD in climate science, atmospheric science, computer science, data science, physics, applied mathematics, remote sensing, or a related field. A strong publication record in AI, machine learning, or Earth system data science is required. Experience with large geospatial datasets, remote sensing, reanalyses, or climate/weather model output is expected. Proficiency in Python and machine learning frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, or JAX is necessary. Experience with HPC and GPU-accelerated computing, familiarity with foundation models and LLMs, and interest in reproducible workflows and scientific software development are preferred. Candidates should demonstrate an independent, proactive, and collaborative working style with strong communication skills. ETH Zürich offers an exciting interdisciplinary research environment at the forefront of climate science and AI, a collaborative and supportive team culture, strong support for career development, access to state-of-the-art computing infrastructure, and unique large-scale climate and geospatial datasets. Opportunities exist to develop independent research ideas and build a scientific profile. The institution values diversity, sustainability, and provides a modern, inclusive workplace with attractive employment conditions and flexible working arrangements. Applications must be submitted online via the ETH Zurich application portal. Required documents include a letter of motivation, CV with publication list, copies of relevant degree certificates, and contact details of two or three academic references. Applications sent by email or post will not be considered. All applications submitted before 11 May 2026 will be reviewed. For further information, contact Prof. Andreas Prein, Prof. Reto Knutti, or Prof. Markus Leippold (emails provided in the post).

The Climate Physics group at the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science, ETH Zürich, is offering a full-time postdoctoral position focused on understanding and quantifying weather and climate extremes in a warming climate. This role is part of the National Competence Centre in Research NCCR CLIM+, which aims to support Switzerland’s transformation towards a climate-resilient society and train a new generation of experts with strong disciplinary and transdisciplinary expertise. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to collaborate with leading experts in atmospheric and climate science within NCCR CLIM+ and ETH Zürich. The project centers on the study of weather and climate extremes using coupled global and Earth System Models, regional climate and convection-permitting models, AI weather models, and process-based or statistical analysis of model results and reanalyses. The postdoc is expected to contribute actively to NCCR CLIM+, take leadership in the research field, and supervise students. The position is initially for two years, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The starting date is flexible and can be negotiated. Applicants must hold a PhD in physics, atmospheric and climate sciences, statistics, or related subjects. Ideal candidates will have working knowledge of climate models, experience with shell scripting, high performance computing, or advanced statistics and data analysis frameworks (python, R). Fluency in English (written and spoken) and strong communication skills, especially in publishing research results in peer-reviewed journals, are required. The role demands motivation to work with cutting-edge numerical climate models, the ability to conduct research in an interdisciplinary and international environment, and a strong desire to disseminate results at conferences and in journals. ETH Zürich offers a dynamic and inspiring research environment, excellent work conditions, supercomputing infrastructure, and a large degree of freedom for candidates to bring in their own research ideas and experience. The Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science is a world-leading institute in global and regional climate change research, situated at one of the top international universities for natural sciences and technology. ETH Zürich values diversity and sustainability, promoting equality of opportunity and nurturing a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core value, with ongoing efforts towards a climate-neutral future. To apply, submit your online application via the ETH Zürich application portal. Required documents include a CV, publication list, brief paragraphs highlighting three scientific achievements, motivation statement, research ideas, and names and contact details of three professional references. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. The application deadline is 15 May 2026, but review of applications will continue until the position is filled. For further information, contact Prof. Erich Fischer ([email protected]) or Prof. Reto Knutti ([email protected]). Administrative requests can be directed to Barbara Wittneben ([email protected]). ETH Zürich is renowned for its excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries, the university promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence, working together to develop solutions for global challenges.