Postdoctoral Research Associate in Ice Sheets and Climate Modelling

Overview

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Ice Sheets and Climate Modelling - 2 posts in Earth, Ocean and Ecological Sciences (Job , closing 25-May-2026 23:30). We have an exciting opportunity for two postdoctoral researchers in climate and ice sheet modelling to join our Ocean Science research group at the University of Liverpool. Prof. Tony Payne’s research focuses on the development and application of ice‑sheet models, in particular their coupling with Earth system models (ESMs).

These posts are linked to three projects with complementary aims:

• Horizon Europe projects Optim
  
  ESM and TIPESM – Optim
  
  ESM aims to develop next‑generation ESMs to deliver long‑term projections for assessing the risk of abrupt change at various levels of global warming; TIPESM focuses on understanding climate tipping points and developing early warning indicators.
• Heising‑Simons Foundation’s project ISMIP7 – a large international collaboration delivering community‑based projections of the contribution of the Antarctic and Greenland ice sheets to future sea‑level rise.

Our contribution to each project is focused on tipping associated with the Antarctic and Greenland ice sheets, and on assessing the climate forcing used in these projections.

As a Postdoctoral Research Associate you will work on coupling ice sheets within Earth system models, and improve scientific understanding of the tipping‑point dynamics of the ice sheets. Your duties will include modelling, data analysis, collaboration with international climate and glaciological modelling groups, and contribution to the three projects above.

If you are still awaiting your PhD to be awarded you will be appointed at Grade 6, spine point 30. Upon written confirmation that you have been awarded your PhD, your salary will be increased to Grade 7, spine point 31.

We are committed to enhancing a diversity‑rich workforce and particularly encourage applicants who are of minoritised genders and ethnic backgrounds, living with a disability, and/or are members of the LGBTQIA+ community.