Research Scientist in Storylines of Extreme Weather Events

Full time, fixed term contract (up to 24 months)

By reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship may be possible under the Skilled Worker Route. Applicants wishing to consider the SWR must ensure that they are able to meet the points requirement before applying. There is further information about this on the UK Visas and Immigration Website.

We seek a motivated researcher to analyse attribution storylines of extreme weather events.
Extreme weather events are increasing in frequency and intensity, leading to more severe impacts. Understanding how these types of extreme event have already changed, and will change in the near-future, is of critical importance to inform decisions on adaptation.
This project will compare at least two existing storyline approaches to event attribution which are translating recent extreme weather events into different climates to quantitatively describe how those weather events and their impacts would be different in warmer or cooler ‘counter-factual’ worlds.
The post-holder will:

• Analyse existing storyline simulations of recent extreme events produced with the 20th Century Reanalysis (20CRv3) and the DESTIN-E systems
• Examine whether these storyline approaches are producing consistent estimates for how different types of extreme events have changed
• Produce recommendations for which approaches should be adopted for future operational attribution of different extreme event types
• Collaborate with project partners (Met Office, KNMI, ECMWF/C3S) and related projects within the scientific community

You will have:

• or shortly expect to receive, a PhD or equivalent experience in physical or mathematical sciences
• knowledge of climate reanalyses and the dynamics of extreme weather events
• experience of analysing climate reanalyses or similar datasets
• the ability to communicate effectively and to develop and maintain productive collaborations
• excellent analytical, problem solving and programming skills

We welcome applications from both external and internal candidates. As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role can be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Internal candidates should discuss this with their line manager prior to applying.

Contact Name Prof. Ed Hawkins
Contact Job Title Professor of Climate Science
Contact Email address e.hawkins@reading.ac.uk
Alternative Contact Name Prof. Ted Shepherd
Alternative Contact Job Title Professor
Alternative Contact Email address theodore.shepherd@reading.ac.uk

The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.

Closing date: on 23:59, 5 January 2026
Interviews will be held: January 2026

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