Open position: Atmospheric Inverse modelling of GHG fluxes
The Global Change Research Institute together with Institute of Microbiology, both being part of the Czech Academy of Sciences, and Czech University of Life Sciences set out an ambitious vision to quantify carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) sources, sinks and fluxes from the rural landscape. This will be achieved by combining a unique monitoring program with state-of-the-art atmospheric modelling. We are currently instrumenting 12 CO2 and N2O monitoring sites that will complement an existing 250 m tall National Atmospheric Tower Křešín u Pacova (part of ICOS Atmosphere stations network) which our Institute has operated since 2012. We have assembled a team of ecosystem modelers focused on estimating prior fluxes from the landscape by combining high-resolution spatial process-based modelling, ground observations (e.g. eddy covariance and field trials), and remote sensing. The prior flux estimates provided by the landscape modelling group will be reconciled with concentration measurements from the newly established, relatively dense tower network. This will be done in conjunction with a Lagrangian transport model, known anthropogenic emission sources, and background concentrations using an atmospheric inversion approach. Our goal is to obtain spatially explicit fluxes from agricultural and forestry systems to better understand their capacity to serve as sinks for emissions from other sectors.
For this team mission, we are seeking a postdoctoral team member that would be involved in the entire modelling chain and data analyses. Highly welcomed is experience in atmospheric inverse modelling of land-atmosphere exchange fluxes of greenhouse gas (GHG) fluxes, and/or prior experience with complex modelling systems and/or data analysis and programming skills. This project offers the opportunity to co-lead exciting and cutting-edge research efforts. The position will also be supported by an extensive international collaboration e.g. with the CarbonWatch-NZ project led by NIWA in New Zealand or by leading nitrogen-cycle research team at Aarhus University in Denmark. This position is part of the new AdAgriF project (https://adagrif.cz/) which, besides monitoring GHG fluxes, seeks to understand how agricultural and forest management practices impact the overall GHG budget and how these practices can be modified to maximize climate change mitigation potential. The position will be embedded within an interdisciplinary and international research team that is conducting experimental, observational, and modelling studies focusing on GHG cycle processes at plant-cell, through ecosystems to regional scale.
The main work tasks can be summarised as follows:
- Combine a numerical weather prediction model with a Lagrangian transport model, land surface models, and in situ GHG concentrations measurements from a new cluster of atmospheric towers within the inverse modelling framework to simulate land-atmosphere exchange fluxes at local to regional scale. The on-job training both within and outside Czech Republic is expected.
- Exploit multidisciplinary data sources to be integrated into landscape scale inversion including, e.g., surface-based and airborne observations from recent monitoring campaigns in Central Europe, or satellite retrievals.
- Explore the connection between land cover, land use, and land management with GHG fluxes.
- Conduct atmospheric inversions to evaluate the performance of upgraded biosphere process-based models for simulation of landscape to regional GHG fluxes in the Czech Republic at very high spatial resolution. The interpretation of process model results will be conducted jointly with project team colleagues contributing to modelling results and in situ measurements.
The ideal candidate should meet the following requirements:
- Higher education degree (PhD) in atmospheric or natural sciences (e.g., meteorology, geoscience, or environmental physics) or computer science and/or data analysis.
- Experience in studying surface-atmosphere exchange processes using atmospheric approaches is highly desirable, and a strong commitment to this area of study is essential.
- Experience in one or several of the following disciplines is expected: atmospheric transport modelling, boundary layer meteorology, observation and interpretation of time series of GHG concentrations, inverse optimisation techniques, environmental modelling, data analysis and/or complex modelling chains.
- Solid experience in scientific programming (R, Python, Julia, etc.) is essential.
- Strong publication record including several publications in highly ranked science journals in appropriate fields.
- We seek a flexible and proactive person who is able to work independently and in a larger team.
- Very good written and spoken English is essential.
Terms of employment:
- This is a full-time post-doctoral position to be filled from December 2024 (or sooner) with current funding guaranteed at least till June 2028.
- We offer a collaborative work environment with a friendly and supportive team that fosters growth and creativity. Our office is located in Brno, known for its rich activities, exquisite coffee, fine dining, and beautiful architecture. Beyond our institute, we offer the opportunity to engage and collaborate with international scientists who are recognized experts in their field, providing a unique opportunity for mentorship and growth. We offer a flexible work arrangement, including the freedom of adjustable work hours and the option to work partly remotely.
To submit your application, send the following documents to jobs@czechglobe.cz.
- Cover letter
- CV along with your publication record that demonstrates your strong experience in the relevant or closely related topics
- Three strong recommendation letters from qualified referees
