Research

Introduction to Cloud Parametrization

This lesson will take you through the basic concepts for the design of a cloud and precipitation microphysics parametrization.

Sources of Uncertainty

All numerical weather prediction models have sources of uncertainty. In this lesson you will learn about these uncertainties and chaotic behaviour, why ensemble prediction is needed, and about ECMWF model set up.

An introduction to Data Assimilation

Data assimilation is used in NWP to define ‘optimal' initial conditions for numerical forecasts. In this lesson you will define data assimilation and explore how it is used at ECMWF.

An introduction to single-column modelling

The SCM is a tool to investigate the physical processes of a global model in isolation. This lesson will introduce what a SCM is, its applications and limitations.

Cloud and precipitation parametrization 1: overview and warm-phase microphysics

This lesson describes the key microphysical processes of cloud and precipitation parametrization with a focus on warm-phase processes and how these are used in NWP.

Cloud and precipitation parametrization 2: ice and mixed-phase microphysics

This lesson describes the key microphysical processes for ice and mixed-phase cloud and precipitation in the atmosphere, and the uncertainties in parametrization.

Introduction to the parametrization of sub-grid processes

Sub-grid-scale processes are not explicitly simulated in NWP so must be parameterized. This lesson describes how the parameterization is done at ECMWF and the challenges faced.

Land surface: introduction to cold processes

Snow’s specific properties impact forecast ranges from a few days to seasonal and climate. In this lesson, you will learn about the role of snow at different time scales.

Numerical Weather Prediction: Parametrization of diabatic processes - case studies (convection)

This lesson contains four case studies which explore the conditions that cause and how to identify deep convection including predictability and forecast errors.

Overview of satellite observations and their role in Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP)

This module will teach you about data sources, the role of satellite observations, satellite data measurements, assimilation, and monitoring of satellite observations.

Using stochastic physics to represent model uncertainty

All numerical weather prediction models have uncertainty. This lesson will explore why there is uncertainty and sources of it and how model uncertainty is represented in the IFS using stochastic physics.