Two PhD positions are available in the research group of Prof. Olivia Romppainen-Martius at the Institute of Geography on the topic of temporal clustering of extreme precipitation starting in fall 2018 or upon agreement. Candidates from a broad range of backgrounds will be considered (e.g. those coming from the field of statistics with little to no experience in the earth sciences, or vice versa). The positions involve using newly available reanalysis data (ERA5) and innovative theoretical frameworks to build statistical models of temporal clustering of precipitation extremes and to analyse the synoptic-scale to sub seasonal dynamics associated with temporal clustering, with the goal of advancing understanding and quantifying temporal clustering of extremes.
The first position will focus on the statistical verification and analysis of extreme precipitation in ERA-5 in general and the detection and quantification of temporal clustering in particular. This PhD project will be co-supervised by Philippe Naveau at LSCE (https://www.lsce.ipsl.fr/Phocea/Pisp/visu.php?id=44). The second PhD position will focus on the synoptic-scale and sub seasonal dynamics associated with temporal clustering and a close collaboration with John Methven at the University of Reading is planned. For both positions proficiencies in statistical programming and data analysis (with e.g., R, Phyton) will be greatly appreciated.

The appointment will be at the Institute of Geography and the PhDs will be part of the Graduate school for Climate Sciences of the Oeschger Centre for Climate Change (http://www.oeschger.unibe.ch/studies/graduate_school/index_eng.html). An MSc degree in a relevant field is required by the start date. The positions are funded for four years by the Swiss Science Foundation and salaries follow the official guidelines (http://www.snf.ch/SiteCollectionDocuments/Annex_XII_Ausfuehrungsreglement_Beitragsreglement_E.pdf). The Swiss Science Foundation has a number of policies and programs in place to support employees as they balance work and family.

Questions regarding the positions can be directed to Olivia Martius at olivia.martius@giub.unibe.ch. Complete applications include a cover letter stating which of the two positions is of interest and why, CV, and the contact information of two references. Applications in PDF format should be sent to olivia.martius@giub.unibe.ch. Review of applications will start on 22 May. For more details on the research group, visit [www.geography.unibe.ch]