As part of the Bureau's Research Program, the Forecast Innovation Team (FIT) undertakes research and development applicable to the weather forecast process, in particular the use of ensemble model output to underpin probabilistic forecasts, leveraging guidance from large-scale and convection-allowing modelling systems including processed Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) model output such as IMPROVER. The team also leads the development of improvements to forecast production tools with a focus on severe and high-impact weather, including hazardous conditions for aviation. Overall, FIT is facilitating a more effective forecast process and the production of more reliable and accurate NWP-based guidance products with a strong operational focus.
The team's research delivery and support capability is expanding to include the support of the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC). The VAAC is tasked with volcanic ash monitoring / detection and the dissemination of short-term predictions of hazardous plumes of volcanic ash following a volcanic eruption for the benefit of safe and economical air travel. This function involves the accurate diagnosis of volcanic eruption details based on remote sensing data and the use of numerical dispersion modelling to predict the time evolution of a diagnosed ash plume. A state-of-the-art dispersion modelling system for volcanic ash has been implemented at the Bureau's VACC to support this function: the Dispersion Ensemble Prediction System version 2 (DEPS-2). Gaining a deep understanding of the operational system with its strengths and weaknesses and the ability to initialise the systems with accurate initial conditions will form an essential component of the VAAC support role.
The Bureau is now seeking an able and highly motivated person to become the scientific focal point for the ash advisory service and its underpinning research and development. The successful applicant will need to engage closely with (1) operational staff in order to ensure their current and future requirements are met; (2) other staff in the Research Program with expertise in NWP and/or observations science; and (3) software engineers who support the DEPS-2 system.
Merit pool
The selection process will establish a merit pool that may be used to fill similar positions within 18 months.
How to apply
Applications can be lodged through the Bureau of Meteorology Careers.
Your application will consist of a resume, contact details for two referees and a statement against the selection criteria (maximum of 300 words per criterion).
The key duties of the position include:
The responsibilities of the role include but are not limited to:
1. Under limited supervision, perform scientific research into the generation of volcanic ash plumes and their dispersion through the atmosphere with the goal of improving automated volcanic ash guidance (satellite-based ash retrievals and ash dispersion modelling). Such research benefits from originality, creativity and innovation and the application of knowledge and skills gained from a demonstrated compatible research background.
2. Lead the development and transition to operations of volcanic ash systems, and/or the generation of uplifted or new products. Provide scientific expertise and advice to the Bureau-operated Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre, the Aviation, Land and Maritime Transport program, and the Research program leadership.
3. Liaise with other teams in the Science and Innovation Group (SIG) to provide science advice for improving satellite-based volcanic ash retrievals and for the implementation of volcanic ash guidance system upgrades into an operational production environment.
4. Publish research results in peer-reviewed journals, technical or research reports. Present results at internal meetings and seminars, and at external fora.
5. Be aware of, and apply as necessary, the principles and practices of the various elements of the Bureau's Social Justice Strategy and a demonstrated commitment to the APS Values and Code of Conduct.
Immediate Supervisor: Forecast Innovation Team Leader (Position ref: 6001 5510)
Eligibility
A degree or Doctor of Philosophy of an Australian educational institution, or a comparable overseas qualification, which is appropriate to the duties; OR other comparable qualifications, which are appropriate to the duties.
Getting to know the Bureau of Meteorology
The Bureau of Meteorology is one of the few organisations that touches the lives of all Australians and all Australia, every day. The Bureau works across Australia and remote islands, providing services from the Antarctic to beyond the equator, and from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific. We are Australia's national weather, climate and water agency, in the Agriculture, Water and Environment portfolio of the Australian Government, operating under the authority of the Meteorology Act 1955 and the Water Act 2007. We provide data, information, knowledge, insight and wisdom to help Australians prepare and respond to the realities of their natural environment, including droughts, floods, fires, storms, tsunami and tropical cyclones. Our products and services include observations, forecasts, analysis and advice covering Australia's atmosphere, water, oceans and space environments. We undertake focused scientific research in support of our operations and services. Through regular forecasts, warnings, monitoring and advice, we provide one of Australia's most fundamental and widely used public services. We have strong relationships with our customers, partners and stakeholders in Australia, including the Australian Community and the emergency services sectors, all-levels of Government, and focus sectors including aviation, agriculture, energy and resources, national security and water.