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701-1222-00L 4 Credits BSC , DR , MSC D-USYS , D-ARCH , D-MATH , D-INFK , D-ITET
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Weather and Climate Modeling

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Martin Wild, Dr. David Leutwyler, Prof. Dr. Andreas Prein
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:33:15

Abstract

Weather and climate models shape decisions from daily routines to battling climate change. This course introduces weather and climate models, from core equations to real-world applications in forecasting and climate projections. You'll run a state-of-the-art model, deepen your skills, and explore key challenges and opportunities. Join to master these essential tools for shaping the future.

Objective

1) Understand fundamental equations governing weather and climate models. 2) Run a state-of-the-art weather model and analyze forecast outputs. 3) Recognize key challenges in weather and climate modeling. 4) Develop critical skills for interpreting and using model results. 5) Explore real-world applications of weather and climate models in decision-making.

Content

This course dives into essential themes of weather and climate modeling, including numerical methods, atmospheric model formulation, and physical process parameterization (clouds, convection, radiation). You’ll also explore data assimilation, limits of predictability including chaos theory, and climate models (coupled atmospheric and oceanic systems). Gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art modeling tools and their analysis using Python in the tutorial.

Resources

Literature

List of literature will be provided.

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC , DR , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 120 minutes
Aids
None
Students hand in a tutorial report (compulsory performance assessment) shortly after the end of the term. Exact date will be announced (oral and written) in the first lecture. The report will be graded with marks. The grade contributes to 20% to the examination grade. It is possible to pass the course, even if the grade for the report is below 4. Ten pages of hand-written notes are allowed during the written exam.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Weather and Climate Modeling
  • Thu 14:15-16:00 (ML D 28)
2 h weekly
exercise Weather and Climate Modeling
  • Thu 16:15-18:00 (ML D 28)
1 h weekly

Offered In