What will you be doing?

KNMI develops weather and climate models in order to improve forecasts and explore past and future climates. These models contain numerous parameters. The values of these parameters are uncertain. Forecast skill and projected climate changes depend on these values. Modelers lack algorithms that find parameter values that optimize forecast skill and minimize model biases.

In this project we apply a promising new automatic tuning algorithm to the parameters of the world-leading weather forecasting system, the IFS model of the European Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). This model is part of the global climate model EC-Earth that we co-develop and use in our climate modeling group. This project is part of the multi-year strategic research programme at KNMI. We aim to publish the results in scientific peer-reviewed journals and contribute to improve the forecast skill of IFS and the climate projections of EC-Earth.

You will implement the algorithm in the IFS model and perform tuning experiments in order to assess the ability of the algorithm to find optimal parameter values automatically. You will join the enthusiastic research team working on this project and will be part of the ‘global climate’ cluster of the RDWK department.Also you will interact with modelers at KNMI, ECMWF and with the European consortium that develops EC-Earth and with scientists that work on the assimilation of scatterometer winds in weather models.

This gives you energy

The aim is to implement the algorithm and adjust parameters in order to be able to reduce the biases in surface winds by making use of the scatterometer wind product obtained from satellite observations. The algorithm synchronizes the model evolution with observations and learns parameters on the basis of the synchronization errors. With your dedication, which demands a comprehensive comprehension of vertical momentum transfer in the atmosphere through convective and turbulent processes, as well as its impact on the lifecycle of storms, you derive motivation from achieving successful implementation.

• we are looking for a candidate who has completed a PhD in climate science (or similar)
• you have a result-oriented attitude and the skills to timely manage your work and make progress in the project. You display a pro-active attitude within the research team
• you are fluent in English (spoken and written) and preferably have a basic understanding of the Dutch language
• you have substantial experience in working with complex numerical codes, preferably weather or climate models or other complex dynamical systems
• you have strong communication skills and are able to deliver a message clearly and persuasively to stakeholders

You are able to analyze complex problems, interpret data, and establish connections between different variables. Next to that you have the ability to devise innovative and original approaches to solving research challenges. You possess the ability to critically evaluate and assess existing theories and findings, along with the perseverance and determination required to overcome obstacles and achieve results. As a person you have an intrinsic curiosity about the subject and a desire to acquire new knowledge. You're able to create a plan of action, make bold decisions, and apply your creativity in a trial-and-error process. While you excel at working independently, you also know how to collaborate effectively. Experience with Fortran, Linux, and/or Python is desirable.

Fixed-term contract: 3 years.

Arbeidsvoorwaarden

• Salarisniveau: schaal 11
• Maandsalaris: Min €3.662 – Max. €5.586 (bruto)
• Dienstverband: Arbeidsovereenkomst voor bepaalde tijd
• Contractduur: 3 years
• Maximaal aantal uren per week: 36

Overige arbeidsvoorwaarden

Plenty of growth and development opportunities

The central government attaches great importance to personal growth and career development and offers numerous opportunities for this. These include attending training courses and obtaining certifications. We also offer career coaching if you need it.

Interesting extras

In addition to your salary, you receive an individual choice budget (IKB) consisting of vacation pay of 8% and an annual end-of-year bonus. This IKB consists of money (16.37% of your gross annual salary) and/or time. With the IKB you make the choices that suit you and you can compose part of your terms of employment yourself. For example, you can have part of your monthly income paid out whenever you wish, convert the IKB into leave or spend it on tax-friendly objectives. Our other fringe benefits include company fitness and full reimbursement of your commuting expenses.