Lead Researcher, Human Centered Weather Forecasting Initiative
About the Trust
The University of Chicago Trust (the Trust) is a charitable trust in India, established in 2008 by an alumnus of The University of Chicago. The objectives of the UChicago Trust are to provide opportunities for grants to support agriculture, water, educational programs, research programs, and activities for the betterment of India.
The Development Innovation Lab – India (DIL-India)
DIL-India, based at the Trust in India, is dedicated to using the tools of economics to benefit millions of people. We work across sectors like health, education, agriculture, climate change, road safety, and others. We do so by collaborating with government agencies, firms, and non-profits in India to identify, test, and scale evidence-based solutions.
Position Description
The Lead Researcher, Human Centered Forecasting (HCF) will lead efforts to develop and apply methods for forecasting the Indian monsoon, and will conduct related analyses and research, including writing research papers. The Lead Researcher The Lead Researcher will collaborate with leading experts in atmospheric science, AI, and economics, such as William Boos, Pedram Hassanzadeh, Amir Jina, and Michael Kremer.
Responsibilities
Evaluate and develop models for forecasting the Indian monsoon
Develop systems for producing forecasts
Contribute to building a publicly available benchmarking and validation system for forecasts
Conduct qualitative research, desk research, and quantitative analysis to inform research
Oversee research design, data collection, and analysis activities for DIL-India projects
Set research priorities in conversation with collaborators.
Draft and review knowledge products at various stages of research, including policy briefs and journal articles.
Participate and contribute to meetings and technical discussions with internal and external stakeholders.
Perform additional duties as assigned or needed.
Qualifications
Education:
PhD in Climate Science, Atmospheric Science, Agrometeorology, Physical Oceanography, Applied Math, Statistics, Physics, Engineering, or a related field at the time of the appointment.
Experience:
5 or more years of experience required, PhD can count for 3 years of experience
Competencies
Proven record of writing and publishing academic research
Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Strong programming and numerical skills
Experience working with high-performance computing and analysis of large datasets
Expertise in weather forecasting, climate modeling/dynamics, or related geospatial applications
Familiarity with theoretical and practical aspects of scientific deep learning (preferred)
Knowledge of AI weather models (preferred)
Strong communication and presentation skills
Knowledge of and experience with field work in developing countries, preferably including running randomized control trials.
Working Conditions
Possible travel to the United States and across India as per the requirements of their assignments.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in India.
Application Documents
Resume/CV (required)
Professional References Contact Information (3) (required)
Work sample (required)