Missions

Spaceborne LiDAR/Radar systems are the preferred tools for retrieving the vertical microphysical, optical, and dynamic properties of clouds on a global scale. For practical reasons, retrieval algorithms often neglect certain radiative effects related to cloud spatial heterogeneities, multiple scattering, or attenuation.

To interpret spaceborne LiDAR/Radar observables (A-Train, AEOLUS, EPS-Aeolus, EarthCARE, AOS/NASA, WIVERN/ESA, etc.), the LaMP is developing the McRALI reference LiDAR/Radar simulator (Szczap et al., 2021), which accounts for the three-dimensional heterogeneous structure of the cloudy atmosphere, multiple scattering, attenuation, polarization, and the Doppler effect.

As part of projects funded by CNES (EarthCARE, POLARICON, C2OMODO), the recruited candidate will be responsible for continuing the development and output analysis of the McRALI simulator.

Activités

As part of the EarthCARE and AOS space missions, the activities will include:
- Implementing in McRALI measurement techniques used by spaceborne radar systems, such as those based on the pulse-pair method (EarthCARE), the pulse-pair method with polarization diversity, and the displaced phase center antenna technique (C2OMODO).
- Analyzing the effects of multiple scattering on the radar observables of these missions.

Compétences

- Knowledge of atmospheric science.
- Experience in radiative transfer.
- Proficiency in numerical computing (Fortran90, Unix, Matlab, etc.).
- Experience with LiDAR and radar would be a plus.
- Experience in writing scientific articles.
- A good command of English is a prerequisite.

Contexte de travail

This fixed-term contract (CDD) will take place at the Laboratoire de Météorologie Physique (LaMP) in Clermont-Ferrand, in collaboration with the Microphysics of Clouds and Precipitation team.

LaMP is a joint research unit of UCA/CNRS, specializing in the study of the cloudy atmosphere, from nucleation processes to precipitation, in the context of global change. Its research aims to better understand cloud formation mechanisms, their interactions with the climate, and the anthropogenic impacts that alter their life cycle.

LaMP approaches these topics through unique experimental and theoretical methods, employing state-of-the-art instrumental suites with precise measurement control, as well as innovative and high-performance numerical models.

By joining CNRS, we offer you:
• A stimulating work environment in close collaboration with research personnel
• An office, a personal computer, and access to local computing servers
• A site accessible by public transport, with parking available