PhD Researcher in Atmospheric Sciences – Emerging Extreme Fire Weather Risks
Investigate unprecedented fire weather extremes and their evolution under climate change in a multidisciplinary research environment.
Best for:Best for meteorologists, atmospheric scientists, or climate researchers with strong programming skills (Python, shell scripts) and a passion for extreme weather and fire risk analysis.
Overview
This PhD position at Wageningen University & Research focuses on understanding the most extreme fire weather conditions—combining heat, drought, wind, and aridity—and how they may intensify in a warming world. The project, led by Dr. Laura Suárez-Gutiérrez in collaboration with Prof. Guido van der Werf, will analyse historical extreme events alongside state-of-the-art climate models. The successful candidate will contribute to critical fire risk assessment and preparedness while working within the dynamic Meteorology and Air Quality (MAQ) Group. The role involves independent research, data analysis, and collaboration in a multidisciplinary setting with expertise in climate extremes and fire dynamics.
What you'll do
- Conduct research to identify and analyse the most extreme fire weather events in historical records and climate models.
- Compare current and projected fire weather extremes under future warming scenarios.
- Investigate atmospheric and climatic mechanisms driving extreme fire weather conditions.
- Assess the relationship between extreme fire weather and actual fire occurrence and behaviour.
- Develop and apply computational methods to process large datasets (weather, climate models, satellite data).
- Collaborate with the MAQ Group and contribute to interdisciplinary research on climate extremes and fire dynamics.
- Present research findings at conferences and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in meteorology, atmospheric sciences, climate sciences, physics, engineering, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; C1 proficiency level (internationally recognised certificate may be required)
Instruction: English
- Proven academic background in meteorology, atmospheric sciences, or climate sciences
- Experience handling large datasets (weather/climate models, satellite data)
- Strong programming skills in Python and shell scripting
- Familiarity with climate modelling or atmospheric dynamics research
- No specific nationality or residency restrictions mentioned
- No age or prior experience caps
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-30
Applicants should submit their CV, a motivation letter, and proof of English proficiency (if required) via the Wageningen University & Research application portal. Additional documents may include academic transcripts and reference letters.
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
- Academic transcripts (BSc + MSc)
- Reference letters (likely 2-3)
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