School of Science, UNSW Canberra
Description
The oceans are the “engine room” of the climate system - an enormous reservoir of heat, energy, and moisture. Changes in ocean conditions can have a dramatic effect on weather – at times, the ocean provides the energy to transform an event from benign to destructive. However, the role that the ocean’s play in extreme weather is poorly understood – even less so in the Australian context. In this project, the student will combine observations and reanalysis datasets with new coupled atmosphere-ocean modelling tools developed at the Australian center for climate modelling (ACCESS-NRI) to identify how the oceans shape extreme rainfall events. Potential phenomena to be investigated are tropical cyclones, east coast lows, and monsoon systems. The outcomes of this project will guide the development of future coupled prediction systems, such as those in development by the Bureau of Meteorology. Collaboration with the Australian Center of Excellence for 21st Century Weather and the ACCESS-NRI, as well as internationally, is expected.
Desired background
An undergraduate degree in physics, mathematics, or engineering with Honours (H1 or H1E) or a Master by Research, with strong mathematical skills. Solid programming skills are highly desirable. The successful applicant must meet Australian Government requirements and UNSW PhD entry standards.
School
Research Area
Coastal Impact
Program Code
1082 | 2042
