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<p>As part of the new <a href="https://apply.mfccdt.ac.uk/">Centre
for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Mathematics for Our Future
Climate</a>, we have two PhD position opportunities at the
intersection of data assimilation and machine learning at the
University of Reading.</p>
<p>The two projects are:</p>
<p><strong>Large ensembles of machine learning forecasts for
advanced nonlinear filters in atmospheric data assimilation</strong><br>
<em>Advised by Eviatar Bach, Sarah Dance, and Amos Lawless</em></p>
<p>Recently, machine learning (ML) weather forecasting models have
shown deterministic forecast skill approaching that of
physics-based models, at a small fraction of the computational
cost. This provides the opportunity to create very large ensembles
of ML forecasts, with the potential to improve data assimilation
(DA), the process of optimally combining forecasts and
observations to improve the accuracy of weather predictions.</p>
<p><strong>Machine Learning Approaches in Bayesian and Ensemble Data
Assimilation</strong><br>
<em>Advised by Eviatar Bach and Jochen Broecker</em></p>
<p>Data assimilation (DA), the process of combining model
predictions with observations, is essential for weather
forecasting. Computational limitations render typical DA
algorithms suboptimal. This project will use machine learning to
infer new DA algorithms that are as close to optimality as
possible, leveraging variational inference, in order to improve
forecasts.</p>
<p>Both projects would have the opportunities to work with
operational forecasting centres, the European Centre for
Medium-Range Weather Forecasting (ECMWF) and the Met Office, as
well as the CDT partners Imperial College London and the
University of Southampton.</p>
<p>The positions would start in October 2024, and are for fully
funded 4-year PhD studentship. Interested students should apply as
soon as possible through the <a href="https://www.reading.ac.uk/maths-and-stats/phd/mathematics-for-our-future-climate">University
of Reading’s application page</a>. Applicants should have a
strong mathematics background.</p>
<p>Feel free to contact Eviatar Bach (<a href="mailto:e.bach@reading.ac.uk" class="moz-txt-link-freetext">e.bach@reading.ac.uk</a>)
with any questions about the projects or application process.</p>
<p>Below is additional information about the CDT in Mathematics for
Our Future Climate.</p>
<hr>
<p><em>Are you ready to be at the forefront of mathematical
solutions for climate challenges?</em></p>
<p>Imperial College London, the University of Reading and the
University of Southampton are thrilled to invite passionate and
dedicated individuals to apply for our exciting new EPSRC CDT in
the Mathematics for our Future Climate starting in October 2024.</p>
<p><em>About the programme</em></p>
<p>Our PhD programme is a dynamic and interdisciplinary initiative
that harnesses the power of mathematics to address the urgent
issues presented by climate change. By joining our community, you
will embark on a journey of cutting-edge research, collaboration
with leading experts, and hands-on experience in shaping the
future of our planet.</p>
<p><em>Eligibility</em></p>
<p>Candidates must hold a master’s degree in mathematics or a
related field with a strong mathematics content by the start of
the PhD programme.</p>
<p><em>Why Choose Our Programme?</em></p>
<p><strong>Innovative Research Opportunities:</strong> Engage in
groundbreaking research focused on weather and climate modelling,
data analysis, and novel mathematical approaches to environmental
challenges.</p>
<p><strong>Interdisciplinary Collaboration:</strong> Collaborate
with experts from diverse fields, including climate science,
atmospheric physics, and related disciplines, to foster innovation
and holistic solutions. Our partners include leading ocean,
weather and climate services, such as the National Oceanography
Centre, the National Centre for Earth Observations, the UK
Meteorological Office, the European Centre for Medium-Range
Weather Forecasts and the Hong Kong Observatory.</p>
<p><strong>Cohort culture:</strong> Be a part of a vibrant
cohort-based research environment and learn and grow your personal
skills through a bespoke cohort training programme.</p>
<p><strong>Tailored internships:</strong> Gain practical experience
by undertaking a research internship with external partners,
including research institutes and industries from key sectors of
the UK economy, notably insurance, energy, water, and marine
sectors.</p>
<p><strong>State-of-the-Art Facilities:</strong> Access cutting-edge
facilities and resources that provide the support you need to
excel in your research endeavours.</p>
<p><strong>Mentorship from Renowned Faculty:</strong> Benefit from
mentorship by experienced faculty members committed to guiding and
nurturing your academic and professional growth.</p>
<p><strong>Fully funded studentships:</strong> Study while receiving
a full stipend (with London weighting), PhD fees paid for 4 years,
and a generous allowance for research-related travel. Some funding
for overseas students is available.</p>
<p><em>Join Us in Shaping the Future:</em></p>
<p>Your expertise and passion for mathematics can play a pivotal
role in advancing our understanding of climate change. Embark on
an enriching academic journey with our PhD programme, where
diversity is celebrated, and excellence thrives. We welcome
applicants from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives,
recognising the immense value each individual brings to our
scholarly community. Committed to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
(EDI), our programme fosters an environment where everyone’s voice
is heard and respected. Join us in advancing cutting-edge research
and addressing societal challenges through collaborative and
inclusive scholarship. Apply now to be a part of a vibrant
community dedicated to making a difference in the world.</p>
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