Associate Research Scientist – Sub-Seasonal to Seasonal Climate Prediction

The International Research Institute for Climate and Society (IRI) is seeking an outstanding individual to develop sub-seasonal to seasonal (S2S) climate forecasts using hybrid statistical-dynamical methods, and to build the capacity to implement them in developing country settings. Tasks will include climate research to develop and test improved S2S forecasts, including downscaling and tailoring of the forecasts to meet agricultural user needs in Africa, and analysis of historical data and model output. The work will support capacity-building through regional institutions in Africa, and will include conducting training workshops and considerable travel. The successful applicant will use the databases of the North American Multi-model Ensemble (NMME) and the WWRP/WCRP Sub-Seasonal to Seasonal Prediction (S2S) projects, statistical tools including the Climate Predictability Tool (CPT), and recently developed high spatial resolution merged satellite-gauge observed precipitation datasets (ENACTS, CHIRPS). This position is part of a broader collaboration with the CGIAR Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS), with the goal of developing S2S climate forecasts for agriculture.

Qualifications: Applicants must have a PhD degree in climate or a related discipline. The successful candidate will have excellent statistical skills and a strong track record in climate analysis, monitoring or prediction. Experience with seasonal climate prediction and multivariate statistical methods are essential. Familiarity with Matlab, R, or another scientific programming language is required, and experience in the use of climate information tools such as the IRI Data Library and the Climate Predictability Tool is desirable. Some experience in applying climate science to agricultural development or food security challenges would be an advantage. Outstanding written and verbal communication skills in English, including peer-reviewed scientific publications are essential, and French competency is desired.

Appointment: The successful candidate will form part of IRI’s multidisciplinary team of scientists engaged in its mission to enhance society’s capability to understand, anticipate and manage the impacts of climate in order to improve human welfare and the environment, especially in developing countries. The IRI is a catalyst for the creation and provision of science-based outcomes that address climate risk. Our approach is based on collaborative partnerships with local, national, regional, international, public and private institutions facilitating the open exchange of ideas, information, and technology between many disciplines and regions.

As all standard research staff positions at Columbia University, the successful candidate will be appointed on a year-to-year basis, with the opportunity of renewal contingent on performance and availability of funding.

Columbia University benefits accompany this Officer of Research appointment.

Application:

Please visit our online application site at https://academicjobs.columbia.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=61502 for further information about this position and to submit your application, cv and statement of interest (up to 2 pages) and contact information for three references.

Search will stay open for 30 days after the ad appears and will continue until the job is filled. Candidate review will begin after the ad has appeared for 30 days. The successful candidate will begin work as soon as possible after the search is closed.

This position is located in Rockland County, NY at the Lamont Campus of The Earth Institute at Columbia University.

Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer –Race/Gender/Disability/Veteran.

Prospective candidates must apply online.