Postdoctoral researcher / Staff Scientist, Solar-Terrestrial Environment and Climate Unit
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher or Staff Scientist to join the Solar-Terrestrial Environment and Climate Unit at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST). The primary focus of our unit is to investigate the mechanisms by which solar variability and galactic cosmic rays influence the climate system. We are looking for a motivated individual with expertise in numerical modeling of atmospheric circulation and related climate dynamics to contribute to and strengthen the unit’s research.
The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University was established in 2011 to contribute to the development of science and technology worldwide and to serve as a hub of innovation in Okinawa. OIST is a dynamic new graduate university of science and technology in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan which offers a 5-year PhD program and brings together outstanding researchers from across the country and across disciplines to conduct cutting-edge scientific research.
The university is located on 85 hectares of protected forestland overlooking a beautiful shoreline and coral reefs. The campus is striking architecturally, and the facilities are outstanding. To facilitate multidisciplinary research, there are no academic departments. Outstanding resources and equipment are provided and managed to encourage easy access and collaboration.
English is the official language of the University, and the university research community is fully international, with more than 50 countries represented. OIST is rapidly gaining recognition in the worldwide academic community as a model for excellence in education and research, and our unwavering commitment to scientific and technological innovation is dedicated to generating progress that will fuel Okinawa's economic growth.
The applicant will work on the following themes based on their research experience.
- Investigating the influence of solar variability and galactic cosmic rays on the climate system through numerical simulations, with a particular focus on the interactions between tropical cloud dynamics and atmospheric and oceanic circulation.
- Developing or improving numerical models as needed to advance the above research objective.
(Required)
- Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in Earth Sciences or a related field (e.g., Atmospheric Sciences, Paleoclimate Science, Meteorology).
- At least two years of hands-on experience running General Circulation Model (GCM), such as CESM, MIROC, or a comparable climate model.
- For a Staff Scientist, a minimum of 5 years of research experience
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
(Preferred)
- Basic understanding of cloud microphysics, aerosol processes, and aerosol–cloud interactions
For Staff Scientist:
Expected Annual Salary: 5.0M – 7.5M yen
*This amount represents the expected annual salary range for this position, which will be determined based on the candidate’s experience, skills, and background in accordance with the OIST Employee Compensation Regulations.
For Postdoctoral Scholar:
Expected Annual Salary: 4.6M-5.9M yen
In accordance with the OIST Employee Compensation Regulations
Benefits & Resources:
- Relocation, housing and commuting allowances
- Annual paid leave and summer holidays
- Health insurance (Private School Mutual Aid)
- Welfare pension insurance (kousei-nenkin)
- Worker's accident compensation insurance (roudousha-saigai-hoshou-hoken)
- Access to Child Development Center
- Access to Schooling Options
- Language Education
- Resource Center (Daily Life Support in Okinawa)
- Remote Work System
- Disability Support
- LGBTQ+ Inclusion & Support Resources
- Cover letter (English)
- Curriculum vitae (English)
- Names and contact information of 3 referees, one of which should be a previous employer
* Please describe your experience with General Circulation Models (GCMs), including the models used and your role in running simulations.
How to Apply:
Apply by submitting your application documents to:
h.miyahara[at]oist.jp (Please replace [at] with @ before using this email address)
Application Due Date:
Application deadline will continue until the position is filled. (Applications will be screened upon arrival)
- OIST Graduate University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action educator and employer and is committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty, students and staff.
- Information provided by applicants or references will be kept confidential in accordance to the OIST Privacy Policy; documents will not be returned.
- Recruiting Organization: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology School Corporation
- Prevention of Passive Smoking: No smoking indoors
- Please view our policy for rules on external professional activities: Rules for Concurrent Appointment.
- Further details about the University can be viewed on our website.
Full-time, fixed-term appointment for 2 years. Contract initially with 6-month probationary period (inclusive). This contract may be renewed by taking into consideration the performance, conduct, and behavior of the Employee and OIST’s financial and other circumstances.
Working hours: 9:00-17:30 (Discretionary)
Holidays:
Saturday, Sunday, National holidays, and Year-end and New Year holidays (Dec. 29 – Jan. 3)
Leave:
Annual Paid Holidays, Summer Leave, Sick Leave, and Special Leave
Overtime work hours:
Discretionary Working Hours System：
In the discretionary labor system for specialized work, the employee shall be deemed to have worked 7 hours 30 minutes per day.
Thank you for your application. Please note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.