UNIVERSITY OF LAUSANNE · SWITZERLAND
PhD in Atmospheric Physics and Artificial Intelligence
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
60 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Fully funded for up to 5 yearsFunding Duration
- CHF 54k - 63k annual salarySalary Range
- Access to high-performance computingComputing Resources
- International research networkCollaboration Opportunities
- Five weeks paid holiday per yearAnnual Leave
- Research travel fundingAdditional Funding
The DAWN group at the University of Lausanne offers two fully funded PhD positions at the intersection of atmospheric physics and artificial intelligence. These positions are designed for rigorous and curious candidates eager to develop novel research within these dynamic fields. The research will be hosted by the Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics and UNIL's Expertise Center for Climate Extremes, providing a rich academic environment. Successful candidates will conduct independent research, developing a creative PhD project in collaboration with supervisors and international partners. The roles involve disseminating findings through publications and conferences, making research outputs open and reproducible, and actively participating in group discussions. The program encourages collaboration across disciplines and provides access to UNIL's computing facilities and a supportive research community. This PhD program is ideal for individuals with a strong quantitative background in fields like atmospheric science, physics, computer science, or data science, who possess excellent programming skills and a solid understanding of mathematics and physics. A passion for interdisciplinary research and strong English communication skills are essential.
Careers
This PhD program prepares graduates for research-intensive careers in academia and industry. Graduates will be equipped with advanced skills in atmospheric physics, artificial intelligence, scientific programming, and data analysis, making them competitive for roles in climate modeling, weather forecasting, AI research, and data science.
- Postdoctoral Researcher
- Data Scientist
- AI Researcher
- Climate Modeler
- Weather Forecaster
- Research Scientist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the funding details for this PhD program?
- All positions are fully funded for up to 5 years, including a salary of CHF 54k - 63k annually, research travel funding, equipment, and computing resources.
- What are the specific entry requirements for each position?
- Position 1 requires proficiency in both English and French. Position 2 requires proficiency in English only; French is not required, but free French courses are available.
- What academic qualifications are needed to apply?
- A Master's degree in a quantitative field such as atmospheric science, physics, computer science, data science, or a closely related discipline is required.
- What documents do I need to submit for my application?
- You will need a CV, degree certificates and transcripts, a list of two references, one lead-authored research report, a short statement on research experience, and a personal statement with a PhD project idea.
- When are the application deadlines and desired start dates?
- For Position 1, the deadline is June 15, 2026, with a desired start date of September 1, 2026. For Position 2, the deadline is September 15, 2026, with a desired start date of March 1, 2027.
- What are the career prospects after completing this PhD?
- Graduates are prepared for research-intensive careers in academia and industry, with roles such as Postdoctoral Researcher, Data Scientist, AI Researcher, Climate Modeler, and Weather Forecaster.
Entry requirements
Master's degreeIn a quantitative field related to atmospheric science, climate science, physics, applied mathematics, statistics, computer science, machine learning, data science, or a closely related discipline. Equivalent degrees expected before start date are also considered.
English ProficiencyStrong communication skills required.
For Position 1, proficiency in both English and French is required. For Position 2, proficiency in English is required (French is not required). Free French courses are available at UNIL.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified, but positions are fully funded with salary.
Tuition (home)Not specified, but positions are fully funded with salary.
LivingNot specified, but covered by the provided salary.
The positions are fully funded, including salary, research travel, equipment, and computing resources.
How to apply
1. Review Position DetailsCarefully read the descriptions for Position 1 and Position 2, noting the specific language requirements and deadlines.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all required documents in PDF format: CV, degree certificates and transcripts, list of two references (names, affiliations, emails), one lead-authored research report, a short statement (max 250 words) on research experience, goals, and teaching interests, and a personal statement (max 500 words) detailing a PhD project idea.
3. Submit ApplicationSubmit your complete application through the provided UNIL application portal links for the specific position(s) you are applying for. For Position 1, applicants are automatically considered for Position 2 unless stated otherwise.
4. Attend Interviews (if selected)Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps, which may include interviews.
Accreditation
The Faculty of Geosciences and Environment adheres to the DORA agreement.
Frequently asked questions
What are the funding details for this PhD program?
+
All positions are fully funded for up to 5 years, including a salary of CHF 54k - 63k annually, research travel funding, equipment, and computing resources.
What are the specific entry requirements for each position?
+
Position 1 requires proficiency in both English and French. Position 2 requires proficiency in English only; French is not required, but free French courses are available.
What academic qualifications are needed to apply?
+
A Master's degree in a quantitative field such as atmospheric science, physics, computer science, data science, or a closely related discipline is required.
What documents do I need to submit for my application?
+
You will need a CV, degree certificates and transcripts, a list of two references, one lead-authored research report, a short statement on research experience, and a personal statement with a PhD project idea.
When are the application deadlines and desired start dates?
+
For Position 1, the deadline is June 15, 2026, with a desired start date of September 1, 2026. For Position 2, the deadline is September 15, 2026, with a desired start date of March 1, 2027.
What are the career prospects after completing this PhD?
+
Graduates are prepared for research-intensive careers in academia and industry, with roles such as Postdoctoral Researcher, Data Scientist, AI Researcher, Climate Modeler, and Weather Forecaster.