Postdoctoral Fellow in aerosol-cloud processes in polar regions

The Department of Meteorology (MISU) at Stockholm University conducts research and education spanning the atmosphere, ocean and physical climate sciences. We offer educational programmes at the Bachelors, Masters and PhD levels. Our research addresses fundamental questions concerning the dynamics, physics, chemistry and biogeochemistry of the atmosphere and ocean relevant for weather and climate. We study questions originating from the deep ocean to the upper atmosphere and from the tropics to the poles. In this effort, we use and develop theory, statistical methods, and numerical models in close interplay with observations. We also develop and lead observational research using satellite and surface-based measurements, including icebreaker expeditions to the Arctic. 

MISU is embedded in a larger research environment including the Bolin Centre for Climate Research, the Baltic Sea Centre, and the Swedish e-Science Research Centre. The department is highly international, with over half our employees coming from outside Sweden. You can read more here about the Department of Meteorology. 

Project description

Dramatic sea ice loss over the Arctic and Antarctic triggers climate feedback processes that can both enhance or dampen global warming. Cloud feedbacks - encompassing changes in cloud fraction, altitude, thickness, and phase (liquid or ice) - are among the most uncertain factors. The postdoctoral project’s specific aim is to enhance our understanding of cloud formation and its link to aerosol processes during warm-air intrusions and cold-air outbreaks in the polar regions. More specifically, the successful candidate will develop relevant aerosol and cloud microphysical processes in the large-eddy simulation code MIMICA and investigate the importance of these processes for polar cloud feedbacks.

This position is associated with a project funded by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation called Feedbacks between sea ice, ocean, clouds, and aerosols in changing polar climates (ACCELERATE). The overall ambition of ACCELERATE is to deliver more robust future climate projections by providing constraints on global climate models regarding polar cloud feedbacks.

Main responsibilities

The main task will be to compile available observational data of warm-air intrusions and cold-air outbreaks in the Arctic and Antarctic and set up and apply MIMICA for these cases. Furthermore, you will develop the aerosol parameterization module in MIMICA and investigate its importance for cloud evolution and cloud radiative properties in the present and in a warmer climate. The position can also include some project management.

Qualification requirements

In order to qualify for a Postdoctoral position, applicants are required to hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent relevant degree from another country. The degree must have been completed no later than when the employment decision is made.

Assessment criteria

It is considered an advantage if the doctoral degree or an equivalent degree was completed no more than three years prior to the application deadline. Under special circumstances, an older degree may also be an advantage. Special circumstances refer to sick leave, parental leave, elected positions in trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical attachment or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.

In the appointment process, special attention will be given to research skills within the area of the employment. The doctoral degree must be in meteorology, atmospheric sciences, oceanography or a related field. An excellent command of written and spoken English is also required. 

About the employment

The position involves full-time employment for a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years, with the possibility of extension under special circumstances. Start date 2025-09-01 or as per agreement.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

Further information about the position can be obtained from Prof. Annica Ekman, annica.ekman@misu.su.se.

For information about the recruitment process and terms of employment, please contact Head of Administration Sara Engström, sara.engstrom@misu.su.se.

Application

Apply for the position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.