ORGANIZATIONAL UNIT:
Cryosphere Monitoring, Predictions and Services Unit – Hydrology & Cryosphere Division – Department of Earth System & Data Prediction

WMO is committed to achieving diversity and a balanced workforce. Applications are welcome from qualified women and men, including those with disabilities. The statutory retirement age after 1 January 2014 is 65. Pursuant to WMO Standing Instructions, the minimum age to be eligible for consideration for vacant positions is 18, and the maximum age must enable the candidate to serve for at least the term of the contract before reaching mandatory age of separation.

ABOUT THE ROLE — ADVANCING GLOBAL CRYOSPHERE MONITORING AND PREDICTION

The Scientific Officer will advance and integrate cryosphere monitoring and prediction capabilities for WMO Members in polar and high mountain regions. Under the direct supervision of the Head of the Cryosphere Monitoring, Predictions and Services unit, this position supports the integration of cryosphere sciences into WMO's global observing, information, and prediction systems.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Technical / Commission Support

   • Support activities of INFCOM, EC‑PHORS, and SERCOM subsidiary bodies focused on monitoring and prediction of global cryosphere status and changes in polar and high mountain regions.
   • Provide technical and administrative support to the Advisory Group on Global Cryosphere Watch (AG‑GCW) for integration of cryosphere sciences into WIGOS, WIS, and WIPPS.
   • Prepare technical meetings, reports, and decision documents for WMO governing bodies.

2. Member Services and Capacity Building

   • Support Members and Regional Climate Centres in developing cryosphere‑related capacities for observing, monitoring, data exchange, and applications.
   • Support WMO engagements with international organizations and initiatives on cryosphere monitoring and prediction, including GCOS and WIPPS World Meteorological Centres.

3. Data Management and Analysis

   • Support coherent data management and standardization of cryosphere data for increased accessibility through WIS and the GCW Data Portal.
   • Conduct analyses and prepare scientific contributions on cryosphere changes in polar and high mountain areas and their global impacts.
   • Assess observation and prediction requirements, capabilities, and gaps.

4. Documentation and Project Support

   • Contribute to technical reports, newsletters, website updates, and community pages.
   • Prepare project concept notes, proposals, work plans, and budget evaluations as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• Master’s degree or equivalent in a scientific discipline with cryosphere‑related studies (e.g. physical geography, hydrology, physics, geophysics, engineering, or environmental studies).
• A first‑level university degree with two additional years of qualifying experience will be accepted in lieu of a Master's degree.

Experience

• A minimum of five (5) years of operational or applied science experience relevant to polar and/or high mountain regions addressing cryospheric variables, monitoring, data processing, or modeling.
• Experience working in multidisciplinary and international teams.
• Experience preparing technical and scientific reports for broad audiences.

Other Requirements

• Strong analytical skills, initiative, originality, dependability, and maturity of judgement.
• Ability to work independently and as a team member in a diverse, multicultural environment.
• Excellent written and oral communication.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Familiarity with WMO Programmes and the UN system would be an advantage.

YOUR PROFILE

Cryosphere science specialist with demonstrated experience in polar and high mountain research. You will contribute to WMO’s integrated Earth system approach by supporting global cryosphere monitoring capabilities and helping Members develop their cryosphere‑related services for climate and environmental applications.

COMPETENCIES

The Scientific Officer, Cryosphere Monitoring and Prediction must demonstrate managerial‑level proficiency in the following competencies:

• Communication and Influence
• Collaboration and Team Dynamics
• Inclusive Mindset and Cultural Awareness
• Decision Making and Problem Solving
• Integrity & Accountability
• Innovation & Digital Agility
• Stakeholder Understanding and Engagement

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English (both oral and written). Knowledge of other official languages of the Organization would be an advantage.
(Note: The official languages of the Organization are Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish.)

ORGANIZATIONAL UNIT
Cryosphere Monitoring, Predictions and Services Unit – Hydrology & Cryosphere Division – Department of Earth System & Data Prediction.WMO is committed to achieving diversity and a balanced workforce. Applications are welcome from qualified women and men, including those with disabilities. The statutory retirement age after 1 January 2014 is 65. Pursuant to WMO Standing Instructions, the minimum age to be eligible for consideration for vacant positions is 18, and the maximum age must enable the candidate to serve for at least the term of the contract before reaching mandatory age of separation.

ABOUT THE ROLE — LEADING GLOBAL CRYOSPHERE SCIENCE AND SERVICES
The Head of the Cryosphere Monitoring, Predictions and Services Unit will lead WMO's comprehensive approach to cryosphere science, coordinating activities across polar and high mountain regions. Under the overall guidance of the Director of Hydrology & Cryosphere Division, this position provides strategic leadership for integrating cryosphere observations, predictions, and services into WMO's Earth system framework.

This leadership role offers the opportunity to shape global cryosphere science policy and coordinate international partnerships that advance understanding and monitoring of Earth's rapidly changing ice and snow systems.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Strategic Coordination and Commission Support

   • Coordinate and support all WMO cryosphere activities carried out by EC‑PHORS, INFCOM (Global Cryosphere Watch), and SERCOM through intensive collaboration with WMO departments and external partners.
   • Lead strategic, programmatic, scientific, and technical coordination of Antarctica‑related activities including the Antarctica Advisory Group.
   • Represent WMO at international, regional, and national meetings on cryosphere, polar, and high mountain activities.

2. International Partnerships and Programme Coordination

   • Develop and maintain strategic engagements with international bodies including IACS, WGMS, IPA, MRI, TPE, SCAR, IASC, and SAON for mutually beneficial cryosphere activities aligned with WMO priorities.
   • Maintain effective partnerships with WMO co‑sponsored programmes: GCOS, WCRP (CliC and GEWEX), and WWRP (PCAPS).
   • Support establishment of Arctic, Antarctic, and Third Pole Regional Climate Centres with regional and research community engagement.

3. Member Services and Capacity Development

   • Provide guidance and assistance to Members on developing and strengthening cryosphere‑related capacities in observing, monitoring, data exchange, and applications.
   • Foster engagements and coordinate maintenance of the Cryosphere Expert Network and National Focal Points network.

4. Unit Management and Programme Delivery

   • Oversee programmatic and administrative tasks of the unit including workplan preparation and implementation supporting WMO Strategic Objectives.
   • Manage budgets, coordinate activities across departments, draft funding requests, report programme performance, and oversee staff management and recruiting.
   • Ensure preparation and publication of scientific and technical reports, newsletters, website updates, and community pages.
   • Seek funding opportunities for cryosphere‑related activities in coordination with relevant WMO units.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• Master’s degree or equivalent in meteorology, hydrology, physics, physical geography (focus on cryosphere) or closely related field. A Ph.D. or equivalent would be an advantage.
• A first‑level university degree with two additional years of qualifying experience will be accepted in lieu of a Master’s degree.

Experience

• A minimum of seven (7) years of combined national and international experience in operational or research activities focusing on cryospheric sciences or polar matters, with progressively increased levels of responsibilities and leadership.
• At least 5 years of experience establishing and managing effective international engagements.
• Experience preparing, reviewing, publishing, and presenting technical and scientific reports.
• Experience conducting consultations with international communities and organizing international scientific/technical conferences.

Other requirements

• Excellent planning and management skills.
• Ability to manage large technical projects of complex nature.
• Sense of responsibility, maturity of judgement, initiative and originality.
• Excellent coordination, analytical, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to foster team spirit, international cooperation and work in a multicultural environment.
• Prior experience with WMO and UN system would be an advantage.

YOUR PROFILE
Senior cryosphere science leader with demonstrated expertise in international programme management and partnership development. You will lead WMO’s global cryosphere activities while building strategic alliances across the international polar and high mountain research communities to advance understanding of Earth’s changing ice and snow systems.

OMPETENCIES
The Head, Cryosphere Monitoring, Predictions and Services Unit must demonstrate managerial‑level proficiency in the following competencies:

• Communication & Influence
• Collaboration & Team Dynamics
• Inclusive Mindset & Cultural Awareness
• Decision Making & Problem Solving
• Integrity & Accountability
• Innovation & Digital Agility
• Stakeholder Understanding & Engagement

Languages
Excellent knowledge of English (both oral and written). Knowledge of other official languages of the Organization would be an advantage.

(Note: The official languages of the Organization are Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish.)

Additional Information:
APPLICATIONS: Applications should be made online through the WMO e‑recruitment system at https://erecruit.wmo.int/public/.
Do not send your application via multiple routes. Only applicants in whom WMO has a further interest will be contacted. Shortlisted candidates may be required to sit a written test and/or an interview.

70-90% | Duration: 5 years | Starting date: March 2026

The research group Ecology at the Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Basel in Switzerland invites applications for a postdoc position within the ERC project 'Global status, trends, drivers and impacts of non-native plant species in mountain ecosystems' (GloNoMo), in collaboration with the Global Observation Research Initiative in Alpine Environments (GLORIA) and the Mountain Invasion Research Network (MIREN).

Project description

The biodiversity crisis is in part driven by invasive species, yet many non-natives are only recognized as invasive once they are widespread. A key challenge is thus to identify which non-native species may spread into natural ecosystems before their eradication becomes unfeasible. Mountain ecosystems remained comparatively natural so far and are thought to be minimally affected, but non-native plants are spreading upslope along roads and trails. However, it remains unknown whether non-native plant species already occur in undisturbed habitats, which species have the potential to spread, which drivers besides roads and trails are decisive, and which species should be classified as invasive. GloNoMo will address these gaps by combining field observations, experiments, and macroecological analyses using so far untapped global monitoring data across all populated continents.

Your position

The successful candidate will focus on macroecological analyses of non-native plant species in mountain ecosystems based on a novel global dataset. In addition, the candidate is expected to join field campaigns in the Swiss Alps and will have the opportunity to develop their own research questions. They are expected to collaborate closely with other team members and researchers from other institutions, will co-supervise PhD and MSc students, and contribute to teaching and other research activities of the research group Ecology.

Your profile

Applicants should hold a PhD degree in ecology, botany, biogeography, environmental science, computational biology or related fields. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a self-organized and solution-oriented work attitude. Strong communication and organizational skills, the ability to work in teams and a commitment to a collegial and inclusive workplace are essential. Candidates should be highly skilled in macroecological analyses and handling large datasets. Very good written and spoken English is a must. Candidates should be able and willing to conduct fieldwork in the Swiss Alps, have experience and knowledge in plant species identification, and hold a valid driver's license. Experience in GIS, project management and supervision is a plus.

We offer you

A five-year postdoc position in a dynamic research group in the international and interdisciplinary Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Basel in Switzerland. You will join a supportive and collaborative working environment, and will be integrated in the international research networks GLORIA and MIREN. Internationally competitive salaries and social benefits are provided according to the rules of the University of Basel, the oldest university in Switzerland. Basel is an international city located at the border to France and Germany and has a high quality of life. Courses to improve hard and soft skills, as well as career development opportunities are available.

Application / Contact

Please upload your application via our online platform. It should include: a motivation letter stating your research interests, fit to the profile and motivation for applying for the position (max. 2 pages), a CV including a publication list with citation numbers, a copy of your PhD degree, and the contact details of 3 references including your relation to them. We especially encourage applications from women and from persons underrepresented in academic research. Review of applications will begin on October 13, 2025 but will continue until the position is filled. Only online applications submitted through the recruiting platform will be considered. For further questions please contact Prof. Sabine Rumpf (sabine.rumpf@unibas.ch)

Click here to view the official Postdoc offer on the Unibas website and apply.

Position Overview

The Regional Information Service (RIS) is a new intervention under ICIMOD’s Action Area: Regional, and part of the organisation’s broader work on Regional Action and Global Advocacy. The overall objective of the RIS is to harness the power of data and rapidly evolving digital tools and technologies to improve decision-making in a way that sustains and protects lives and livelihoods across the rapidly changing Hindu Kush Himalaya region.

The Senior Intervention Manager of the Regional Information Service (RIS) will act as a thought leader in digital information services and technologies, contributing to the team and collaborating closely across ICIMOD and with its partners. This position supervises and manages the RIS team, ensuring successful delivery aligned with organisational standards, and coordinates with other teams across the organisation. The Senior Intervention Manager is accountable for the overall quality and timely execution of RIS, ensuring all components are well integrated, aligned, and mutually reinforcing. The role also includes risk management, clear communication, and coordination across ICIMOD to ensure all personnel involved understand their roles and contribute effectively as a team.

Background

The incumbent will lead the development and delivery of ICIMOD’s Regional Information Service (RIS) in alignment with Strategy 2030 and MTAP V (2023–2026), managing a multidisciplinary team to implement components on regional data, analytics, and innovation. This includes redesigning and integrating the Regional Database System, enhancing data access and usability, developing web and mobile applications using advanced technologies, and fostering strategic partnerships to strengthen data capabilities. The role entails cross-organisational collaboration, resource mobilisation, risk management, and integration of cross-cutting themes such as GESI, biodiversity, and climate change. It also involves high-quality people management, capacity building, and implementing communication strategies to ensure information is widely disseminated, user-driven, and effectively positioned in regional and global fora.

Method of application

Applicants must apply online before 28 September 2025 (11:59 PM Nepal Standard Time) through ICIMOD Vacancy Application Portal.

Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Please note: Candidates who have previously applied for this position do not need to reapply.

See the full job description here.

See more vacancies on the ICIMOD website here.

The Faculty of Science and Medicine of the University of Fribourg, Switzerland, announces an open rank position of Professor in Human Geography in the Department of Geosciences.

A candidate with an outstanding scientific track record in the field of human geography is sought, with a focus on environmental issues. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, climate change debates, resource geographies, urban-rural relations, agriculture, conservation, and sustainability. Qualified applicants must have a clear research and teaching vision and proven teaching and communication skills. This position includes teaching at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels; it requires fluency in French and English and the willingness to acquire German. The candidate is expected to contribute to the Master programs 'Master in Geography' and 'Specialized Master in Nature, Society and Politics' and to integrate students form the Master programs in 'Environmental Sciences and Humanities' in their courses. The successful candidate will develop an internationally recognized competitive research program sustained by external funding. The position may be filled at the level of Assistant Professor (tenure track) or Full Professor (tenured).

Application deadline is 15 October 2025.

For more information, please see the original job posting.