About the project/work tasks:

Multiple lines of evidence show that the circulation of the North Atlantic Ocean is changing. One notable expression of these changes is a regional cooling that is in striking contrast to the global trend; the “warming hole”. While the similarity between this cooling and the fingerprint of AMOC weakening in climate models has been used to argue that the decline in circulation present in virtually all simulations of future climate is already underway, recent observations call the hypothesized mechanism into question. This debate highlights both the complexity and urgency of contextualizing the changing subpolar North Atlantic. Here the University of Bergen will focus on two fundamental aspects underlying the current uncertainty, (1) the interaction of surface gyre and deep overturning circulation, and (2) a paleoceanographic perspective of natural variability in the region.

Potential approaches include the analysis of large ensembles of coupled climate models and the forward modeling of paleoceanographic archives such as foraminifera. University of Bergen aims to explicitly address the complexity of this problem with data of adequate width (ensemble simulations) and length (paleocean. reconstructions). Ideal candidates have firm roots in physical oceanography or neighboring fields and a keen interest in paleoclimate research.

Qualifications and personal qualities:

  • Applicants must hold a master's degree or equivalent education in oceanography, physics, applied mathematics, meteorology or neighboring fields. Master students can apply provided they complete their final master exam before 01.08.2022. It is a condition of employment that the master's degree has been awarded.
  • The position requires an interdisciplinary interest and enthusiasm for paleoclimate research.
  • Previous experience in scientific programming Python, Matlab or similar is considered an advantage.
  • Applicants must be able to work independently and in a structured manner and demonstrate good collaborative skills.
  • Applicants must be proficient in both written and oral English.
  • Personal and interpersonal qualities will be emphasized. Research experience, ambitions and potential will also count in the assessment of the candidates.

About the PhD Research Fellowship:

The fellowship will be for a period of 3 years, with the possibility for a 4th year, consisting of 25% compulsory work (e.g. teaching responsibilities at the department) distributed over the employment period. The 4th year is contingent on the qualifications of the candidate and the teaching needs of the department and will be decided by the head of department upon appointment.

About the research training:

As a PhD Research Fellow, you must participate in an approved educational programme for a PhD degree within a period of 3 years. The deadline for applying for admission to the PhD programme at The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences is 2 months after you start your position or after the start of the research project that will lead to the PhD degree. It is a condition that you satisfy the enrolment requirements for the PhD programme at the University of Bergen.

Deadline - 10th May 2022.

More information on the position and how to apply here.