Our research group “Cloud and Climate Physics”, led by Fabian Hoffmann, has recently been established at the Institute of Meteorology at the Free University of Berlin. Our primary research objective is the role of clouds in the climate system. For this, we apply and develop a wide range of numerical approaches that cover highly idealized heuristic models to very detailed Lagrangian representations of cloud microphysical processes, with the goal to better understand clouds and their interactions with other Earth system components. Using this framework, we strive for a high degree of process-level understanding, with the aim of generalizing these insights to larger scales.

Job description:
We seek a motivated research assistant (Ph.D. student) willing to support our ongoing research on mixed-phase clouds. Particularly, we would like to address mixed-phase processes in deep convective clouds to understand how these clouds interact with aerosol: How do deep convective clouds affect the aerosol size distribution and their spatial distribution? How do these effects change under environmental conditions (e.g., polluted vs. pristine environments)? For this, some aspects of the group’s Lagrangian cloud microphysical model to represent certain cloud mixed-phase processes need to be further developed or adapted (e.g., partial melting of ice particles, solution effects on homogeneous freezing temperatures). Within this general setting, the research assistant has the opportunity to address their own topics.
Beyond research, the research assistant is expected to support teaching at the Institute of Meteorology (e.g., by teaching exercises and tutorials, and supervising Bachelor’s and Master’s students). The position serves to enhance the candidate’s scientific qualification through participation in research and the acquisition of teaching experience.

Requirements:
Completed university degree in atmospheric sciences, physics, or mathematics (Master's degree).

Desirable:
Experience or willingness to develop model components using the programming language Fortran. Experience or willingness to run numerical models on parallelized supercomputers. Experience in the analysis of model output using Python or a similar high-level programming language. Fluency in English (written and spoken). The ability to work in a team.

For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Fabian Hoffmann (f.hoffmann@fu-berlin.de).