Research Associate in Environmental Sciences

The Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Virginia invites applications for a postdoctoral research associate focusing on our improved understanding of cloud processes in global climate models.

The successful candidate will explore relationships between modeled tropical climatology, deep convection, and high clouds as part of a project funded through the Department of Energy. The overarching goal of this work will be to identify sources of inter-model spread in high clouds and their response to perturbations among global climate models participating in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP).

The postdoctoral research associate will be advised by Dr. Kathleen Schiro (University of Virginia) and co-advised by Dr. Mark Zelinka (Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory) and will have opportunities to travel to LLNL to maintain active collaborations with PCMDI scientists.

Responsibilities include (a) analyzing publicly-available CMIP output from multiple coordinated experiments, (b) analyzing and augmenting a perturbed physics ensemble (PPE) in the DOE’s Energy Exascale Earth System Model (E3SM), (c) analyzing observational data to create constraints on cloud processes through relevant atmospheric processes, (d) presenting work at conferences and engaging broadly in the climate dynamics community (e.g., through participation in workshops), and (e) publishing results in the peer-reviewed literature.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: A PhD in Atmospheric Science, Environmental Sciences, or a related field is required by the start date. Experience analyzing global climate model output to study atmospheric processes is required.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Apply online at https://uva.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UVAJobs and search for R0080251. Attach a curriculum vitae, a brief cover letter describing relevant experience, and contact information for three references. Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the CV box.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin on March 15, 2026, but the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

This is a one-year appointment, with an expected start date in Summer or Fall 2026. However, the appointment may be renewed for one additional one-year increment, contingent upon satisfactory performance.

For any questions on this position please contact Kathleen Schiro, Assistant Professor, at kschiro@virginia.edu

For questions about the application process, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Academic Recruiter, at rkh6j@virginia.edu

For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits .

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .