Senior Hydro-Climatologist

The Centre for Ecology and Hydrology is a world-class research organisation focusing on land and freshwater ecosystems and their interaction with the atmosphere. Our mission is to underpin evidence-based decisions and innovation by policy-makers and business and engage with people, supporting sustainable development and improving society’s environmental legacy.

About the role

We are looking for an enthusiastic and committed hydro-climatologist to work on a variety of exciting, high-impact, applied research projects within a dynamic, research-focused team based at our Wallingford site. The aim of the research is to better understand hydro-climatic variability at timescales from seasonal to multi-decadal – including future impacts of anthropogenic climate change. The area of work will examine the relationships between climate and hydrology with the aim to improve the forecasting of hydrological extremes in the UK. The work will mainly be using selected climatic and hydrological datasets and hydrological computer models along with statistical analysis.

You will work on a range of externally funded projects including IMPETUS, an RCUK-funded project aiming at improving the seasonal forecasting of droughts in the UK, and EdGE, a European project aimed at developing climate services for the water sector; as well as National Capability projects like the UK Hydrological Outlook. You will also be expected to present your work at national and international scientific events, to actively engage with the international scientific community such as e.g. HEPEX, UNESCO Euro-Friend, to publish their research in peer-reviewed journals and to contribute to writing proposals for internal and external funding.

About you

We are looking for applicants with the following skills and experience:

Essential:

• a degree (at least 2:1) in an appropriate subject (earth/environmental/physical sciences, engineering or maths)
• PhD (with several years’ post-doctoral experience), or equivalent relevant experience
• a background of conducting hydrological or climatological research and of applying it to climate impact assessments or seasonal forecasts
• proven ability of the application, or development, of conceptual or physically-based models
• proficiency in a scientific programming language (e.g. R, Python or FORTRAN)
• excellent numeracy, including statistical analysis of hydrological or climatological data
• proven ability of writing proposals/grant applications and of winning external research funding
• track record of successfully delivering research projects on-time and within budget
• team leadership with the ability to successfully manage and develop staff within area of work
• excellent communication with different audiences, including senior managers, scientists and stakeholders
• evidence of paper writing and presenting results at international scientific conferences or meetings is essential
• works independently with minimal supervision, keeping managers appraised as appropriate
• willingness and ability to work overseas for short periods is essential.

Desirable:                                                                

• active involvement in national or international networks or evidence of successful collaborations in the UK and elsewhere would be advantageous.

What we can offer

Our Wallingford site is set in a beautiful location by the River Thames, with on-site restaurant. We offer a public sector pension scheme, 30 days annual leave and 10½ days public and privilege holiday per annum.

How to apply

Applications are handled by the UK Shared Business Services; to apply please visit our job board http://www.topcareer.jobs/Vacancy/irc240662_7088.aspx please ensure that you complete an application form as CVs will not be accepted as a standalone. The form should be uploaded via the "My Account" menu option on the "Jobs Home" page. If you are unable to apply online contact us by telephone on 01793 867000, please quote reference number IRC240662.

Closing Date: 19^th April 2017

Interview Date: 12^th May 2017