Missions

The LSCE is offering a post-doctoral contract as part of the ANR BIOCOD project to gain a better understanding of changes in biological productivity during climate transitions between glacial (cold) and interglacial (warm) periods, also known as deglaciations, over the last 800,000 years. The role of past changes in marine and terrestrial productivity is still poorly understood, despite the fact that they have a significant impact on the carbon cycle, and a fortiori on atmospheric CO2 concentrations. Existing tools, such as signals from the isotopic composition of air trapped in ice cores (δ13CCO2, Δ17O of O2 and δ18O of O2), provide elements of understanding, but they integrate simultaneous changes of several components of the Earth system (ocean, continent), which do not provide a detailed understanding of the mechanisms at play. In this context, it is necessary to use numerical models to separate the effect of each process and each component. This project aims to use a model including isotopes to better understand and separate changes in biological productivity and their impact on the carbon cycle during deglaciations.

Activities

We are looking for a dynamic and motivated researcher to join the project team, made up of modelers and experts in geochemical tools. The postdoc will run simulations with the iLOVECLIM model on past deglaciations, analyze them to assess changes in marine and terrestrial productivity, and compare model outputs with paleoclimate data (δ13CCO2, Δ17O of O2 and δ18O of O2).
The post-doc will join the CLIM (climate modelling) team and actively participate in the regular team meetings. He/she will also benefit from the numerous scientific seminars organized every week at LSCE. Project meetings with all participants will be held twice a year.

Skills

Required
- PhD in climate, environmental or closely related sciences
- Good computer programming skills (Python or equivalent)
- Good written and oral communication skills
- Ability to work in a team and independently

Optional
- Knowledge of Fortran programming language
- Knowledge of the carbon cycle
- Experience in using numerical climate models
- Knowledge of Quaternary climate

Work Context

The LSCE is a stimulating research laboratory near Paris, bringing together around 300 scientists, engineers, technicians, post-docs and PhD students working on environmental and climate issues (https://www.lsce.ipsl.fr/fr/index.php). It is a unique place to carry out research on climate and the carbon cycle, with experts in past, present and future climates, working with both experimental data and numerical models.

Additional Information

The application must include a CV, a cover letter describing the candidate's motivations, a copy of the doctoral examination and the names, telephone and e-mail addresses of at least 2 references. The deadline for applications will be Saturday, November 30, 2024 at 11:59 pm.