BrightSpark Postdoctoral Research Associate(UK visa sponsorship available)

Job Description

About the Role

The University of Reading is seeking a talented and motivated Postdoctoral Research Assistant (PDRA) to join the BrightSpark Project, a new and exciting ARIA-funded initiative investigating the role of charge release in enhancing the reflectivity of marine stratus clouds to help mitigate global warming.

This project represents an important contribution to understanding potential climate intervention strategies and their wider implications for atmospheric processes. The post will focus particularly on modelling the effects of charge release on cloud microphysics.

You will join a dynamic research environment within the Department of Meteorology, internationally recognised for its excellence in atmospheric science and climate research.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct numerical and theoretical modelling to explore the impact of charge release on cloud microphysics.

Analyse and interpret simulation outputs to assess implications for cloud reflectivity and climate cooling potential.

Collaborate closely with other members of the BrightSpark project team and external research partners.

Contribute to scientific publications, reports, and conference presentations.

Support the supervision of research students and assist in wider project dissemination activities.

About You

You will have:

A PhD (or near completion) in Atmospheric Science or a closely related discipline.

A proven research track record in atmospheric or climate modelling.

Knowledge of cloud microphysics and/or aerosol science.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Experience with high-performance computing, model development, or numerical weather prediction systems would be advantageous but not essential.

Sponsorship Information

This post may be eligible for sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker Route. Applicants considering this route must ensure they meet the points-based immigration requirements. Further details are available on the UK Visas and Immigration website

Our Commitment to Equality and Inclusion

The University of Reading is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We proudly support:

The Athena SWAN Charter for gender equality,

The Race Equality Charter, and

LGBT+ equality initiatives.

We are also a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and welcome applications for job-share, part-time, or flexible working arrangements, which will be considered in line with operational requirements.

About the University of Reading

The University of Reading is internationally renowned for its leadership in climate and environmental research. Home to one of the world’s leading Departments of Meteorology, we bring together cutting-edge expertise to address the scientific and societal challenges of a changing climate.

Join us and be part of a global effort to understand, predict, and respond to one of the most urgent issues of our time.