The National Institute of Education invites suitable applications for the position of Senior Research Fellow on an 18-month contract at the Humanities & Social Studies Education Department.

Project Title: The characterization, mechanism, predictability, and impacts of the unprecedented 2023 Southeast Asia heatwave

Project Introduction: In April and May 2023, Southeast Asia experienced an unprecedented heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 42°C across the region and Thailand recording a historic 49°C. This project examines the event's spatiotemporal evolution, synoptic conditions, driving mechanisms, forecasting performance, return period, and multi‑sectoral impacts using high‑resolution meteorological data, satellite imagery, and climate models. It evaluates both natural drivers (El Niño, monsoon anomalies) and anthropogenic factors (urban heat islands, greenhouse gas emissions). The findings will improve forecasting, inform regional policy, and serve as educational resources for NIE's curriculum. By advancing research, transforming teaching, and inspiring learning, this project strengthens NIE's role in preparing future generations to address climate change challenges.

Requirements:

• Ph.D. in Climate Science, Atmospheric Science, Environmental Science, Computer Science, AI/Data Science, Remote Sensing, Urban Sustainability, or a related field.
• Experience with Linux-based high-performance computing environments and GPU computing.
• Proven experience in weather and climate models development and applications.
• Experience in machine learning, deep learning, or AI applications for atmospheric modeling.
• Proficiency in Python and experience with AI/ML frameworks such as PyTorch or TensorFlow.
• Experience handling large geospatial, atmospheric, or remote sensing datasets is preferred.
• Strong analytical and programming skills.
• Strong scientific writing skills.
• Experience in publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in interdisciplinary research teams.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and apply AI-assisted weather and climate models with high spatial and temporal resolution.
• Integrate remote sensing, observational, and numerical model datasets for climate and urban sustainability applications.
• Conduct research on urban climate processes, including urban heat island effects, boundary layer dynamics, air pollution, and building energy consumption.
• Apply machine learning and statistical approaches for climate risk assessment, prediction, and scenario analysis.
• Analyze large-scale atmospheric, environmental, and geospatial datasets.
• Support the development of innovative AI tools and workflows for climate and sustainability research.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams and external stakeholders.
• Prepare scientific manuscripts, technical reports, and conference presentations.
• Contribute to grant proposals and ongoing research projects.
• Any other duties as assigned by the Principal Investigator.

Application

Applicants (external and internal) will apply via Workday. We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Closing Date

Closing date for advertisements will be set to 14 calendar days from date of posting.

Hiring Institution: NIE