U.S. CLIVAR Monthly Newsgrams

2006
OCT
NOV
DEC

January 2006
U.S. CLIVAR News-gram
Table of Contents
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i – Calendar of Upcoming Events

Research Opportunities and Call for Papers

Position Announcements

Announcements:

Meeting and Workshop Announcements

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CALENDAR of UPCOMING EVENTS (for more information -  www.usclivar.org/calendar.html)

January 2006:
21-26: 1st iLEAPS Science Conference
30-Feb3: AMS Annual Meeting
31: U.S. CLIVAR Town Hall Meeting at AMS

February 2006:
1: U.S. CLIVAR Committee Meeting
13-16: CLIVAR WGSIP Meeting
15-17: CLIVAR Pacific Panel Meeting
20-24: AGU Ocean Sciences Meeting
23: U.S. CLIVAR Salinity Session at Ocean Sciences

March 2006:
13-18: 2nd ARGO Science Meeting
21-24: Climate Prediction Applications Science Workshop
27-29: Workshop on Tropical Cyclones and Climate
27-31: DOE ARM Meeting

Research Opportunities and Call for Papers

1. NASA Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Sciences

"Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Sciences" (NNH05ZDA001N) will be posted on its home page Web site at http://nspires.nasaprs.com/ (select "Solicitations" then "Open Solicitations" then "NNH05ZDA001N" then "Program Elements" then "Advanced Information Systems Technology").

This amendment establishes a new program element in Appendix A.33 entitled "Advanced Information Systems Technology."  This new program element solicits proposals for development of selected key technologies to enable an evolution of distributed Earth system sensors and processing components into sensor webs.  This AIST program solicitation will concentrate on the architecture (i.e., the design, structure, and behavior) and development of system building blocks leading to autonomous sensor webs.  Scenarios are required to show the relevancy of the proposed technology to the objectives of NASA Earth science.  During the course of the technology development, the awardees will be required to participate in ESTO-sponsored sensor web technology workshops to advance information sharing on components and concepts.  Notices of Intent to propose are due January 17, 2006, and proposals are due March 17, 2006.

2. NASA National Leadership Computing System Resources

Proposal Submission Deadline: Monday, 16 January 2006
The complete Call for Proposals is available online at: http://www.nas.nasa.gov/Users/Accounts/pi_NLCS.html

Questions about the proposal procedure should be directed to:
Tsengdar Lee
NASA Headquarters
Phone: 202-358-0860
E-mail: tsengdar.j.lee@nasa.gov

As a commitment to continued U.S. leadership in high-end scientific and technical computing and computational modeling, and in response to the recommendations of the Federal High-End Computing Revitalization Task Force (HECRTF), NASA is extending access to its premier high-end computing system, called Columbia, to include research from outside of existing NASA projects.

Four of Columbia's nodes have been linked to form a unique 2048-processor shared memory environment, currently the world's largest single-system-image configuration, referred to as NASA's National Leadership Computing System (NLCS).

Scientists and engineers are invited to request large allocations of time and storage on the NLCS. Applicants must present evidence that they can make effective use of the shared memory architecture and a major fraction of the processors. Four and a half million processor hours are being made available through the Call for Proposals for the year 1 March 2006 to 28 February 2007.

3. NASA Earth System Science Fellowships

NASA announces graduate student fellowships for persons pursuing Master of Science (M.Sc.) or Doctoral (Ph.D.) degrees in Earth System Science and related disciplines. The purpose of NASA's Earth System Science (ESS) Fellowship Program is to ensure continued training of interdisciplinary scientists to support the study of the Earth as a system. NASA places particular emphasis on the applicant's ability and interest in pursuing academic training and research using observations and measurements from NASA's Earth orbiting satellites, and in developing inter- or cross-disciplinary research about the Earth system that is not currently emphasized in the research and development portfolio of NASA's Science Mission Directorate (SMD).

Students intending to apply to the ESS Fellowship Program are encouraged to consult with their advisors and seek their guidance and review of the research proposal which is a major part of the application; however, the proposals must be written by the student applicants.

Proposed research may stem from atmospheric chemistry and physics, ocean biology and physics, ecosystem dynamics, hydrology, cryospheric processes, geology, geophysics, engineering, and computing or information science. Specific research, whether relating to observations, process studies, modeling, and/or analysis, should emphasize the use of remote sensing and be relevant to NASA's objectives in Earth Science.

The maximum amount of award is $24,000/annum. The fellowship may be used to defray student's stipend, living and educational expenses, travel expenses to scientific conferences, research supplies (other than equipment), tuition, and fees. For the 2006/2007 academic year, NASA expects to award up to 50 new ESS fellowships.

Submission Deadlines
Deadline for receipt NEW applications: 4:30 p.m., EST February 1, 2006
Deadline for receipt of RENEWAL applications: 4:30 p.m., EDT, March 15, 2006

4. NSF Synthesis of Arctic System Science (NSF 06-523)

National Science Foundation (NSF), Office of Polar Programs, Arctic System Science (ARCSS) Program
This solicitation is for research that synthesizes our understanding of the arctic system. The arctic system is a set of interconnected and interacting physical, biological, and human components and processes in the northern region influenced by the existence of perennial ice (sea ice, ice sheets, glaciers, permafrost, etc.). Research efforts supported will build on and integrate the wealth of existing data and knowledge to advance our understanding of the behavior of the arctic system or key subsets of the system and to understand the role it plays in the global system and society.

ARCSS issued a solicitation in 2005 for proposals on synthesis. This solicitation seeks additional proposals to undertake this synthesis and complement the research underway under awards that were made in 2005 (http://www.arcus.org/ARCSS/synthesis_projects.html). This call for proposals is timely because the pace of arctic change has accelerated; an integrated system understanding is now essential to establish a scientific basis for predicting environmental change and —most importantly— for supporting decision-making processes in society and formulating policy options.

For the full program solicitation, see the NSF website at:
http://www.nsf.gov/publications/pub_summ.jsp?ods_key=nsf06523
Full Proposal Deadline: Friday, 24 March 2006

5. NSF Carbon in Water Systems
Full Proposal Deadline Date:  March 15, 2006
This solicitation continues some activities of the Biocomplexity in the Environment (BE) initiative, and in particular aspects of the programs Coupled Biogeochemical Cycles, Integrated Carbon Cycle Research, Biogeosciences, and Water Cycle Research. These previous solicitations were aimed at increasing our fundamental understanding of links among the physical, chemical, geological, hydrologic, atmospheric, and biological processes that comprise the Earth’s natural systems. This solicitation is more limited in scope, but continues the central BE theme of interrelationships by focusing on enhanced understanding of carbon and water cycle processes related to Earth’s hydrosphere, atmosphere, geosphere, and biosphere, as well as exchanges among these different reservoirs.
For background, interested proposers may wish to examine examples of recent scientific reports on the Carbon Cycle ( for example www.carboncyclescience.gov/planning.html), Water Cycle (for example www.usgcrp.gov/usgcrp/Library/watercycle/wcsgreport2001/default.htm), and Climate Change ( for example www.climatescience.gov). However, this solicitation does not cover all the topics addressed in these reports.

Additional information can be found at http://www.nsf.gov/funding/pgm_summ.jsp?pims_id=13651&org=GEO&from=home

Position Announcements

6. Staff Scientist – International CLIVAR Project Office

James Rennell Division, National Oceanography Centre, Southampton
A scientist is required to join an international team that provides support for the international activities of the World Climate Research Program's study on Climate Variability and predictability (CLIVAR). The post involves work with teams of leading international scientists, involved in atmospheric, oceanic and climate modeling and climate change detection. These are working towards the development and implementation of CLIVAR's program of research on phenomena ranging from monsoons and El-Niños to human impacts on climate with focus on the oceans' role in decadal-scale climate variability.

The successful applicant should have a Masters degree or PhD in Meteorology, Oceanography or Climate Science. A broad awareness of how the climate system works and specialist knowledge in a relevant area of the physical sciences is important as is experience of atmosphere, ocean or coupled modeling. You should have excellent communication skills, spoken and written, and have experience of using computer packages (e.g. Word, Excel, Adobe Illustrator). This position will involve short periods of overseas travel.

The post is initially available for a period of 17 months and the salary will be in the range £23,457 - £28,850 per annum, depending on qualifications and experience.

Further information regarding this position may be obtained from our Website: http://www.clivar.org/recent/jobs/jobs.htm or Email: icpo@noc.soton.ac.uk

An application form and further particulars may be obtained from the Human Resources Department (E), University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, Tel: 023 8059 2750, e-mail: recruit@soton.ac.uk or minicom: 023 8059 5595, alternatively visit our website at http://www.jobs.soton.ac.uk. Closing date for applications is 6 January 2006. Please quote reference number 05E0364.

7. Postdoctoral Scholar Position - Physical Oceanography and Polar Processes Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) California Institute of Technology

The California Institute of Technology, Postdoctoral Scholars Program at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) invites applications for a postdoctoral research position in physical oceanography and polar processes. The position will involve analysis of high-latitude satellite data and high-resolution global-ocean and sea-ice data syntheses from the ECCO2 project (http://ecco2.org/) in order to study interactions of ocean circulation with atmosphere and sea-ice processes.

A Ph.D. in physical oceanography, applied physics, or related fields is required. Experience with high latitude observations and processes is desirable. The position is open immediately and appointment is contingent upon completion of Ph.D. The start date is flexible, but preferably no later than 1 May 2006. The annual starting salary for a recent Ph.D. is approximately $52,000 USD and can vary somewhat according to the applicant's qualifications.

For more information, please contact:
Dimitris Menemenlis
E-mail: menemenlis@jpl.nasa.gov

8. IFM-GEOMAR Professor in Physical Oceanography

Immediately available.
The research interests of the applicant should focus on process related observational physical oceanography. A focus might include processes relevant for ocean dynamics and  mixing, transfer of properties and substances, and/or modern observational technology.
Close collaborations within the Research Division and multidisciplinary cooperation with  other research groups in Kiel are expected.

9. IFM-GEOMAR Full Professor in Theoretical Physical Oceanography
* starting date of April 1st, 2007

The research interests of the applicant should focus on the theoretical basis of ocean  dynamics. Research applications will involve complex ocean circulation models that  describe processes on all timescales including global and regional energy and property  transports, and might use novel mathematical methods, data assimilation, and stress  interactions with modern or paleo observations. Close collaborations within the Research
Division and multidisciplinary cooperation with other research groups in Kiel are expected.
Qualifications:
A successful applicant will pursue outstanding and internationally recognized research in
physical oceanography and is expected to fully participate in the educational program of
physical oceanography. The position is part of the Research Division Ocean Circulation
and Climate Dynamics.
Habilitation or equivalent scientific qualifications are required. The applicant is expected to teach physical oceanography at both the undergraduate and graduate level. Many of the  lectures will be given in English.
Applications should be received until January 15th, 2006 and addressed to the  Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics of the Christian-Albrechts-University in Kiel, Olshausenstr. 40, 24098 Kiel, Germany

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Comment Deadline: Friday, 20 January 2006
Comments can be submitted online at:
http://www.nsf.gov/about/performance/input.cfm

The National Science Foundation is asking for your input at the start of the process to draft the next NSF Strategic Plan. Feedback from the science and engineering community is very important and views from the community will be incorporated into the new plan.

The current plan (http://www.nsf.gov/publications/pub_summ.jsp?ods_key=nsf04201) is meant to guide NSF and stakeholders in a way that is responsive to the science and engineering community that NSF serves. The Strategic Plan for FY 2006-2011 will continue to do this through communicating NSF's strategic goals, objectives, priorities and strategies over this time period. To meet the requirements of the Government Performance and Results Act, the plan will also discuss the relationship of this entire framework to annual performance goals in the NSF budget. The Strategic Plan will be consistent with the priorities and strategies being drafted in the National Science Board 2020 Vision for the National Science Foundation. Your comments are requested by January 20, 2006 through the website at: http://www.nsf.gov/about/performance/input.cfm.

In particular, NSF requests comments on the following questions to assist in developing the new plan:

Does NSF's current Strategic Plan effectively communicate NSF's roles and responsibilities as part of the science and engineering (S&E) community? If not, what is lacking and how can the next plan be improved?

What broad characteristics of the near- and long-term environment for S&E research and education should NSF consider and address in its next Strategic Plan?

In addition to direct community input, the NSF Advisory Committees will provide guidance throughout the process. There will be another opportunity for direct community input once a draft plan is completed. The final version of the Strategic Plan must be sent to Congress and the Office of Management and Budget by September 30, 2006.

You are invited to provide comments on the prospectuses for four Climate Change Science Program (CCSP) Synthesis and Assessment Products:

1.3 Reanalysis of Historical Climate Data for Key Atmospheric Features: Implications for Attribution of Causes of Observed Change
4.1 Coastal Elevation and Sensitivity to Sea-Level Rise
5.1 Uses and Limitations of Observations, Data, Forecasts, and Other Projections in Decision Support for Selected Sectors and Regions
5.3 Decision Support Experiments and Evaluations Using Seasonal to Interannual Forecasts and Observational Data

These are four of the 21 synthesis and assessment products that will be prepared by the CCSP.The Climate Change Science Program coordinates and directs U.S. research efforts in the areas of climate and global change. The Program completed and released a Strategic Plan in July 2003 to guide its activities. More information about the CCSP can be found in the "Strategic Plan for the U.S. Climate Change Science Program". (<http://www.climatescience.gov/Library/stratplan2003/>). The Strategic Plan commits the program to prepare synthesis and assessment products to support informed discussion and decisionmaking regarding climate variability and change. The first set of products is described in the strategic plan.

Comments are due by 30 January 2006. All comments submitted by that time will be thoroughly evaluated and, if appropriate, incorporated in the final prospectuses, which will be posted on the CCSP website when finalized. The comments submitted will be collated and posted on the CCSP website as well. The final prospectuses will include the agreed timetables, which will highlight opportunities for further public engagement. To ensure that your comments are routed correctly, please submit them to the e-mail address described in the instructions for formatting and submitting comments. These instructions have been customized for each product and are available through the internet links listed below:

For Product 1.3 (Reanalysis):
http://www.climatescience.gov/Library/sap/sap1-3/default.htm For Product 4.1 (Sea Level):
http://www.climatescience.gov/Library/sap/sap4-1/default.htm For Product 5.1 (Observations):
http://www.climatescience.gov/Library/sap/sap5-1/default.htm For Product 5.3 (Seasonal):
http://www.climatescience.gov/Library/sap/sap5-3/default.htm

To begin the review of one of these products, follow the appropriate link to download the instructions and the prospectus. We appreciate your participation and constructive comments.

The completed Prospectus for Product 2.1, Scenarios of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Atmospheric Concentrations and Review of Integrated Scenario Development and Application, which (along with public comments submitted on an earlier draft), can be found at <http://www.climatescience.gov/Library/sap/sap2-1/default.htm>.

Meetings and Workshops
10. U.S. CLIVAR Town Hall Meeting
One of the core objectives of CLIVAR is predictability and predictions, e.g. characterizing elements of the coupled climate system that are predictable, identifying sources of predictability, and improving capabilities to predict climate variability on seasonal and longer time scales. CLIVAR recognizes that a critical measure of success in its research program is a transferal of insight and knowledge to routine production of climate forecasts, information and products. These forecasts and climate products have inherent value to decision makers.
Thus, the U.S. CLIVAR will discuss their upcoming plans at an AMS Town Hall Meeting 31 January 2006. The newly reorganized U.S. CLIVAR is structured around three central themes: (1) Prediction, Predictability and Applications Interface (2) Process Studies and Model Improvement, and (3) Phenomena, Observations and Synthesis. Each theme has a newly constituted panel that will be helping lead, coordinate, and recommend efforts and activities that address several CLIVAR goals as well as CCSP milestones. During this Town Hall meeting, co-chairs from each panel will present their goals, steps towards achieving those goals, and how the scientific community can become involved in U.S. CLIVAR. A discussion will follow.

11. 20 Years of Nonlinear Dynamics in Geosciences
June 11-16, 2006, Rhodes, Greece

The purpose of this conference is to bring together scientists from the atmospheric sciences, hydrology, geology, and other areas of Geosciences to discuss the advances made and the future directions of nonlinear dynamics. Topics will include predictability, ensemble prediction, nonlinear prediction, nonlinear time series analysis, low-dimensional chaos, error growth in the models, nonlinear modeling, fractals and multifractals, bifurcation, and other aspects of nonlinear science. Submission of abstracts from all areas of Geosciences is welcome. For more information or to register and submit abstracts please visit http://www.aegeanconferences.org. We would like to invite you to participate in this exciting meeting. Please note that the cost of the accommodation package is 1290 Euro and includes registration, hotel accommodations at the Hilton resort in Rhodes, all meals (breakfast and lunches at the hotel, dinners at selected restaurants in the island), and an island tour. We sincerely hope that you will be able to participate. If you need further information, or if you have any comments or suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact us. The meeting is endorsed by the American Meteorological Society (AMS) and the European Geosciences Union (EGU).

If you intent to participate we urge you to pre-register. At this stage this is very important. Pre-registering guides us with the planning and the logistics of the conference. Pre-registration does not require paying now. Payment is due March 15. The number of participants is limited to 150.

February 2006
U.S. CLIVAR News-gram
Table of Contents
===================
i – Calendar of Upcoming Events

Research Opportunities and Call for Papers

Position Announcements

Announcements:

Meeting and Workshop Announcements

CALENDAR of UPCOMING EVENTS (for more information -  www.usclivar.org/calendar.html)

February 2006:
1: U.S. CLIVAR Committee Meeting
13-16: CLIVAR WGSIP Meeting
15-17: CLIVAR Pacific Panel Meeting
20-24: AGU Ocean Sciences Meeting
23: U.S. CLIVAR Salinity Session at Ocean Sciences

March 2006:
13-18: 2nd ARGO Science Meeting
13-18: 2nd 15 yrs of Progress in Radar Altimetry Symposium
21-24: Climate Prediction Applications Science Workshop
27-29: Workshop on Tropical Cyclones and Climate
27-31: DOE ARM Meeting

April 2006:
19-21: International CLIVAR SSG-14
22-23: 9th VAMOS Meeting

Research Opportunities and Call for Papers

1. NASA Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Sciences (ROSES) 2--6
Proposal Due Dates: Starting April 14, 2006 through February 10, 2007

The NASA Research Announcement (NRA) NNH06ZDA001N, entitled "Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Sciences - 2006" (ROSES-2006), is available by opening the NASA Research Opportunities homepage at
http://nspires.nasaprs.com/
and then linking through the menu listings "Solicitations" to "Open Solicitations." This NRA solicits proposals for supporting basic and applied research and technology across a broad range of Earth and space science program elements relevant to one or more of the following NASA research programs: Earth Science, Heliophysics, Planetary Science, and Astrophysics. Proposal due dates are scheduled starting on April 14, 2006, and continue through February 10, 2007. Electronically submitted Notices of Intent to propose are requested for most program elements, with the first such due date being February 28, 2006. Electronic submission of proposals is required by the respective due dates for each program element, and must be submitted by an authorized official of the proposing organization. Participation is open to all categories of organizations, foreign and domestic, including educational institutions, industry, not-for-profit organizations, NASA centers, and other Government agencies.

Note that electronic submission of all proposals is a new requirement for ROSES this year. Electronic proposals may be submitted via the NASA proposal data system NSPIRES or via Grants.gov. Every organization that intends to submit a proposal in response to this NRA must be registered with at least one of the two systems, and such registration must identify the authorized organizational representative(s) who will submit the electronic proposal. Principal investigators may not submit proposals directly to NASA. Each electronic proposal system places requirements on the registration of principal investigators and other participants (e.g. co-investigators). Potential proposers and proposing organizations are urged to access the system(s) well in advance of the proposal due date(s) of interest to familiarize themselves with its structure and enter the requested information.

Further information about specific program elements may be obtained from the individual Program Officers listed for each program element in this NRA, while questions concerning general policies and procedures for the ROSES-2006 NRA may be directed to Dr. Paul Hertz, Chief Scientist, Science Mission Directorate, NASA Headquarters, Washington, DC 20546-0001; E-mail: paul.hertz@nasa.gov; Telephone: 202-358-0986.

2. NSF Releases Solicitation for IGERT Program

The National Science Foundation continues the Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship (IGERT) program into its ninth annual competition. Proposals for new IGERT projects as well as for renewals of existing IGERT projects are invited. The IGERT program has been developed to meet the challenges of educating U.S. Ph.D. scientists and engineers who will pursue careers in research and education with the interdisciplinary backgrounds, deep knowledge in chosen disciplines, and technical, professional, and personal skills to become, in their own careers, leaders and creative agents for change. The program is intended to catalyze a cultural change in graduate education, for students, faculty, and institutions, by establishing innovative models for graduate education and training in a fertile environment for collaborative research that transcends traditional disciplinary boundaries. It is also intended to facilitate diversity in student participation and preparation, and to contribute to the development of a diverse, globally-engaged, science and engineering workforce.

IGERT is an NSF-wide endeavor involving the Directorates for Biological Sciences (BIO), Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE), Education and Human Resources (EHR), Engineering (ENG), Geosciences (GEO), Mathematical and Physical Sciences (MPS), Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences (SBE), the Office of Polar Programs (OPP), and the Office of International Science and Engineering (OISE). The IGERT program is managed by the Division of Graduate Education in EHR.

For investigators planning proposals for IGERT programs involving research in the Arctic or Antarctic, feel free to contact Renee Crain (rcrain@nsf.gov) or Vladimir Papitashvili (vpapita@nsf.gov) in the Office of Polar Programs for more information specific to polar IGERT programs.

3. NSF Releases Solicitation for IPY

The National Science Foundation solicitation "International Polar Year (IPY)" (NSF 06-534) has been released:
http://www.nsf.gov/publications/pub_summ.jsp?ods_key=nsf06534

The "International Polar Year 2007-2008" (IPY) will extend from March 2007 through March 2009. IPY is envisioned as an intense scientific campaign to explore new frontiers in polar science, improve our understanding of the critical role of the polar regions in global processes, and educate the public about the polar regions. Projects are expected to involve a pulse of activity during the IPY period; have multi- and interdisciplinary scopes; leave a legacy of infrastructure and data; expand international cooperation; engage the public in polar discovery; and help attract the next generation of scientists and engineers.

A number of NSF programs will respond to proposals for support of IPY activities over the next several years. These are listed on an IPY web page maintained by NSF's Office of Polar Programs (http://www.nsf.gov/od/opp/ipy/ipyinfo.jsp). This list will be updated from time to time and should be consulted when considering proposal submissions.

In anticipation of IPY, the Office of Polar Programs (OPP) and the Directorate for Education and Human Resources (EHR) have identified special emphasis areas that will require preparation in advance of IPY. The research emphasis areas are: ice sheet history and dynamics; biological adaptations at the cellular and genomic level to life in extreme cold and prolonged darkness; and the arctic observing network. Proposed research activities must be integrally related to one or more of these emphasis areas and adhere to the guidance of the National Research Council's report "A Vision for the International Polar Year 2007-2008" (http://www.nap.edu/html/ipr2007-2008/0309092124.pdf), including specific significant linkages to international activities.

The educational emphasis areas for this solicitation are: formal science education experiences for K-12 teachers and undergraduate or graduate students; informal science education for the broader public; and coordination and communication for IPY education projects. In addition to the educational activities normally integrated into research proposals, this solicitation will consider standalone proposals that specifically address one or more of these focus areas.

Proposals for IPY activities outside of these emphasis areas should be directed to other solicitations from OPP and NSF. Related programs are listed at the website above. Proposals submitted under this solicitation may be co-reviewed with other NSF programs.

4. Call for contributions to the WGNE report on "Research Activities in Atmospheric and Oceanic Modelling"

There is considerable activity in many countries in the development of numerical models for the purpose of climate simulation and for forecasting on various time-scales. In order to keep abreast of these activities and to foster the early interchange of information, the joint CAS/JSC Working Group on Numerical Experimentation (WGNE) recognizes the importance of maintaining contact with scientists engaged in all aspects of model developments, evaluation and use related to the WMO World Weather Research Programme and the WMO/ICSU/IOC World Climate Research Programme or in other numerical experimentation and investigations. One of the essential ways in which this is accomplished is the preparation of the report on "Research Activities in Atmospheric and Oceanic Modelling" annually by WGNE, which includes brief reports from scientists on their current activities.

Scientists are invited to submit the usual reports of research activities, developments and progress made in numerical weather forecasting and/or climate modelling. New research findings should be particularly stressed. Contributions should consist of a brief description of the activity and include some results, albeit of a preliminary nature, preferably in the form of figures or tables. Areas of interest include:

Any information, notification of, or reports on workshops which have been organized or are being planned that would be of interest to the numerical modeling community as a whole are invited.

It is preferred that you use the interactive electronic form that will transfer your document directly to the web site (http://collaboration.cmc.ec.gc.ca/science/wgne/BlueBook) and is available under Submission Form. Note that this site is now password protected and if you do not have the password please follow the instructions given therein. If you absolutely cannot use this submission mechanism, instructions will be posted later on this site explaining how to proceed. The length of the contribution (including any diagrams, figures, tables, references) must not exceed the equivalent of two printed single-spaced pages (21 x 28 cm or 8.5 x 11 inches), with 2.5 cm or 1 inch wide margins on all sides. A title and the author's name and affiliation, and e-mail address must be included. Please do not number the pages as it complicates the pagination of the report. Portable document format (PDF) is greatly preferred although compressed postscript (PS) files are acceptable.

Contributions are due at the latest by 17 February 2006. The assembled report will be placed electronically at the web site on 1 March 2006. A limited number of hard copies will also be printed and mailed to those who so requested in the survey of the WGNE mailing list. It is the responsibility of the authors to insure that their color illustrations are legible when printed in black and white.

Position Announcements

5. Position Announcement - Executive Director, U.S. Arctic Research Commission (USARC)
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
First Review of Applications: Tuesday, 31 January 2006

Details of application requirements can be found at: http://www.usajobs.opm.gov (Vacancy Announcement ARC-SES-06-001)
The U.S. Arctic Research Commission (USARC), an independent government agency, invites applications from qualified individuals with terrestrial, marine, or atmospheric research experience in the Arctic, including research management and participation in the field or at sea. A Ph.D. is desired. The USARC encourages applications from individuals whose research expertise is complemented by knowledge and experience in: 1. the Federal planning and budgetary processes; 2. international arctic research activities; and 3. the ongoing research interests of the State of Alaska, local jurisdictions, and NGOs.

Strong interpersonal skills are important. The Executive Director is the senior government employee of the Commission. Duties include development and recommendation of a national arctic research policy and facilitation of cooperation in arctic research and logistics activities between Federal, State, local, indigenous, and international entities. The Commission is mandated under the Arctic Research and Policy Act of 1984 (as amended). Additional details about the Commission, its activities, and its publications may be viewed at http://www.arctic.gov.

This opportunity is an SES position. The salary range is $109,808 to $152,000 USD. It may be filled through the Intergovernmental Personnel Act authority. U.S. citizenship is required. The position is located in Arlington, Virginia, near the National Science Foundation and Metro.

6. Florida State University (COAPS) announces 3 Postdoctoral positions

The Center for Ocean-Atmospheric Predictions Studies (COAPS) at the Florida State University (FSU) invites applications for three (3) postdoctoral positions available for a one-year appointment, renewable for a second year. A Ph. D. in Physical Oceanography or related fields (Meteorology, Computer Sciences, etc.) is required. The successful applicants are expected to interact and collaborate with the scientists/faculty of COAPS and other FSU departments. We are especially interested in candidates with a strong modeling background to work on a) coupled ocean-atmosphere climate modeling with HYCOM in the NCAR CCSM, b) evaluation of ocean data assimilation techniques in the Gulf of Mexico, and c) decadal variability of the Mediterranean outflow. Preference will be given to applicants who are interested in starting their own research programs. COAPS is expending and research opportunities will be available to the successful candidates. Review of applications will begin after March 1, 2006.

Applications, including curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests, and three letters of recommendation, should be sent to:
Prof. Eric Chassignet
Center for Ocean-Atmospheric Predictions Studies
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL  32306-2840

The Florida State University is committed to a policy of non-discrimination for the university community on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran's or marital status, or any other protected group status.

7. Post-doctoral Researcher Sought for Collaborative Project Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

A post-doctoral researcher in the field of physical oceanography is sought to participate in a collaborative project between the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to evaluate and utilize emerging global ocean state analyses of ocean circulation and air-sea fluxes derived through the combination of observations and numerical models. The arctic and subarctic regions are now being targeted and a postdoctoral researcher is sought with interest in and experience with modeling the arctic climate system to work with evaluating and improving the arctic part of the ECCO model.

The researcher will be resident at the WHOI, but frequent exchange visits with MIT will be encouraged. Please submit your CV, a statement of research interests, and the e-mail addresses of three referees to:
Steve Jayne, WHOI
E-mail: sjayne@whoi.edu
Peter Winsor, WHOI
E-mail: pwinsor@whoi.edu
John Marshall, MIT
E-mail: jmarsh@mit.edu

8. Postdoctoral Fellowship Available - Southern Ocean Modelling
Institut d'Astronomie et de Geophysique Georges Lemaitre Universite Catholique de Louvain
Application Review Begins: Wednesday, 1 March 2006

Further information is available at:
http://www.astr.ucl.ac.be/index.php?page=JobSouthernOceanModelling

The Institut d'Astronomie et de Geophysique Georges Lemaitre of the Universite Catholique de Louvain in Belgium invites applications for a postdoctoral fellowship in 3-D modelling of the sea-ice ocean system and biogeochemical cycles in the southern ocean. The successful candidate will be in charge of the physical component of the model but will also take part in the coupling between the physical and biogeochemical modules as well as in the analyses of the results of the coupled model.
The research will be in collaboration with the Universite Libre de Bruxelles, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel, the Musee Royal d'Afrique Centrale, and the Universite de Liege in the framework of a new project funded by Belgian Science Policy.

The postdoctoral fellowship is for twelve months. Suitable candidates should have a Ph.D. in physical oceanography, atmospheric science, applied mathematics, or a related discipline. Applications should include a detailed curriculum vitae, a letter describing relevant experience and research interests, and two letters of recommendation. Review of applications will begin Wednesday, 1 March 2006 and will continue until a candidate is selected. Application materials and questions should be sent to: Hugues Goosse
Institut d'Astronomie et de Geophysique G. Lemaitre 2, chemin du Cyclotron
B-1348 Louvain-la-Neuve
Belgium
Phone: 32-10-473295
Fax: 32-10-474722
E-mail: goosse@astr.ucl.ac.be
URL: http://www.astr.ucl.ac.be/index.php?page=hgs%23HomePage

ANNOUNCEMENTS

The National Science Foundation has launched a portal website to provide the general public and members of the news media with easy access to news releases, classroom resources, listings of museum and gallery exhibits, and catalogs of video and still images and other materials produced or supported by the federal government as part of the U.S. contribution to the International Polar Year (IPY) 2007-2008.

The site, at http://www.us-ipy.gov, includes information on the IPY for a general audience as well as basic information for scientists interested in obtaining IPY funding from the U.S. government. New content will be continually added to the comprehensive site.

The IPY will take place exactly 50 years after the International Geophysical Year (IGY), a similar global scientific research endeavor during which scientists first spent the long Antarctic winter at the South Pole, among other accomplishments. The polar "year" will include two calendar years to permit a full 12 months of observations in regions where six months of extreme cold and darkness can hamper fieldwork.

In the spring of 2007, scientists from more than 100 countries will embark on an intensive, coordinated campaign of multi-disciplinary scientific observations, research, and analysis as part of the IPY. The research is expected to dramatically expand our understanding of the Arctic and Antarctic regions--including their relationship to the global ecosystem--and to provide unprecedented insight into how societies in high northern latitudes are coping with environmental change.

NOAA’s new Climate Program Office (CPO), created in October 2005, integrates the Office of Global Programs, the Arctic Research Office, and the Climate Observations and Services Program and coordinates climate activities across all NOAA. The new CPO focuses on developing a broader user community for climate products and services, provides NOAA a focal point for climate activities, leads NOAA climate education and outreach activities, and coordinates international climate activities. The NOAA Climate Program unveiled their new web page this week: http://www.cpo.noaa.gov/index.jsp

The Science Plan and Implementation Strategy of the DIVERSITAS Cross-Cutting Network agroBIODIVERSITY is now available online. Follow the link www.diversitas-international.org  to download the PDF.

The goal of the agroBIODIVERSITY Science Plan and Implementation Strategy is to establish the scientific basis needed to address the trade-offs between food production, biodiversity conservation, ecosystem services, and human wellbeing in agricultural landscapes. Three key research foci of the agroBIODIVERSITY Science Plan integrate the biological and social sciences:

To assess biodiversity in agricultural landscapes and the anthropogenic drivers of biodiversity change; To identify the goods and services provided by agrobiodiversity at various levels of biological organisation, e.g. genes, species, communities, ecosystems and landscapes; To evaluate the socioeconomic options for the sustainable use of biodiversity in agricultural landscapes.

Implementation of the agroBIODIVERSITY Science Plan will involve collaboration between geneticists, ecologists, anthropologists, and economists among other disciplines, to understand the environmental and social drivers of biodiversity change, ecosystem services provided by biodiversity in agricultural landscapes, and how to use this information for policy-relevant strategies to meet human needs.

For more information on the project, please contact the chair Louise Jackson (lejackson@ucdavis.edu)
If you would like some paper copies, please contact the DIVERSITAS secretariat (secretariat@diversitas-international.org)

Meetings and Workshops
9. U.S. CLIVAR Town Hall Meeting

The U.S. CLIVAR held an AMS Town Hall Meeting on 31 January 2006. Panel chairs of the three central themes: (1) Prediction, Predictability and Applications Interface (2) Process Studies and Model Improvement, and (3) Phenomena, Observations and Synthesis discussed their upcoming plans. Each panel will be helping lead, coordinate, and recommend efforts and activities that address several CLIVAR goals as well as CCSP milestones. The co-chairs from each panel presented their goals, steps towards achieving those goals, and how the scientific community can become involved in U.S. CLIVAR. Presentations from this Town Hall Meeting are available online at www.usclivar.org.

10. Call for abstracts for the 36th Scientific Assembly of the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR)

(COSPAR) will bring together approximately 2000 scientists and engineers from all over the world to present the latest results in 82 symposia and special events covering all areas of space science. The Assembly will take place 16 - 23 July 2006 in Beijing, China.
Scientific program and abstract instructions: http://meetings.copernicus.org/cospar2006/

Abstract deadline: 17 February 2006
Registration and hotel reservations:
http://www.cospar2006.org/
Early registration deadline: 15 May 2006
The program for distinguished interdisciplinary lectures and panel events is now available and may be consulted on the first site listed above.

11. Special sessions for the Spring AGU Meeting
23-27 May 2006, Baltimore, Maryland

The cutoff date for abstract submissions is 1 March 2006.
Information regarding the meeting and the abstract submission is available from
<http://www.agu.org/meetings/ja06/>http://www.agu.org/meetings/ja06/

A03: Role of Circulation in Regional Hydroclimate Variability (Sumant Nigam and A. Ruiz-Barradas)
A07: Attribution of Climate Variability during the Past 100-years (M. P. Hoerling and A. Kumar)
A09: Downscaling and Higher-Frequency Statistics in Global Climate Models (S. Cocke and T. LaRow)
A10:  Diagnosing, Modeling, and Forecasting Subseasonal Variability (K. Weickmann, and D. Waliser)
Operational forecasts are now being routinely issued on weather as well as seasonal time scales. For the time scales shorter than 15 days, predictions are largely influenced by the initial conditions, whereas on seasonal time scales influences from the slow evolution in boundary conditions, e.g., sea surface temperatures, is the primary source for useful predictability. Despite such successes, a critical gap remains in our ability to make useful predictions on time scales roughly between 15-60 days. The variability in this time band is dominated by phenomena such as atmospheric blocking, different modes of atmospheric variability (e.g., PNA, NAO etc.), the tropical MJO, land surface conditions, among others. Although the importance of such atmospheric phenomena in influencing extremes events has been recognized, not much progress has been made in understanding their predictability, and further, the ability of the current generation of general circulation models to simulate such phenomena remains poor, even on the short range (<15 days). Talks in this session are sought to bring together researchers active in the area of subseasonal predictability, modeling, and predictions. Contributions are invited on: (1) predictability of atmospheric flow on subseasonal time scales, (2) simulation of subseasonal variability by atmospheric general circulation models, (3) relative influence of initial vs. boundary conditions in subseasonal predictions, (4) role of land-surface conditions in subseasonal predictions, (5) statistical processing techniques for improving subseasonal predictions, (6) empirical and dynamical prediction techniques, (7) impact of subseasonal phenomena on short range (<15 day) predictions, (8) importance of air-sea interactions in simulating subseasonal variability, (9) diagnosing MJO vertical structure using satellite and conventional analyses and (10) initialization techniques for subseasonal predictions.
A12: Dynamical Regional Climate Modeling (R. Arritt, and R. Leung)
A15:  Outstanding Issues in Seasonal to Interannual Climate Prediction (Gil Compo, P. D. Sardeshmukh, M. Ji, P. Chang, A. W. Robertson, and D. M. Straus)
Contributions are solicited on all aspects of seasonal to interannual climate prediction and predictability. Investigations of climate signals and distributional changes associated with ENSO and/or other boundary forcings, empirical and/or GCM prediction techniques, multi-model and large ensemble methods, signal sensitivity and/or nonlinearity, and prediction error diagnoses and correction would be relevant in this session. In view of the obvious practical importance of this topic, and also the many valuable contributions made by more active researchers than can be accommodated in a single session, none of the presentations will be explicitly “Invited” talks. We very much hope that your active participation and vigorous discussion will clarify the outstanding issues in this area and suggest avenues for further progress.
A16: Seasonal Predictions and their Applications (J. Roads, A. W. Wood, M. Ji, and C. Penland)

12. Second Argo Science Workshop
Venice, Italy Wednesday March 15th - Saturday March 18th 2006

Program for the Second Argo Science Workshop can be viewed at http://www.argo.ucsd.edu. The program for the "Integrated approach" session is accessible at http://earth.esa.int/venice06/programme.html

Registration can be done online at http://earth.esa.int/venice06/registration.html

13. Rapid Climate Change - International Science Conference
24 - 27 October 2006. Birmingham, U.K.

Some models predict that rapid (decadal-scale) climate change could occur under the scenario of global warming that is likely to happen over the next century. The Atlantic Ocean’s thermohaline circulation (THC) is thought to have played a key role in rapid changes in the past and to have the potential to do so in the future, although other processes may also cause rapid climate change to occur. This conference will explore the scientific understanding of rapid climate change, with a main but not exclusive focus on the role of the THC in such change. The topics of interest include, but are not limited to: present day observations of the strength and structure of the Atlantic THC, paleo data (ice, land, ocean) on past rapid climate changes, modeling of past and possible future rapid climate change, understanding of processes controlling the strength of THC, testing models using present day and paleo observations, impacts of rapid THC change on climate and weather, probability of rapid climate changing occurring, impacts of rapid climate change on society.
The conference seeks to bring together the international community of scientists carrying out oceanographic observations, paleo studies and ocean and coupled climate modeling in order to discuss recent research findings and to identify outstanding problems and ways forward in the science of rapid climate change.

A call for papers will be issued early in 2006. For more information and to register your interest in the meeting: www.rapid.nerc.ac.uk/rapid2006

March 2006
U.S. CLIVAR News-gram
Table of Contents
===================

i – Calendar of Upcoming Events

Position Announcements

Announcements:

Meeting and Workshop Announcements

CALENDAR of UPCOMING EVENTS (for more information -  www.usclivar.org/calendar.html)

March 2006:
13-18: 2nd ARGO Science Meeting (Venice, Italy)
13-18: 2nd 15 yrs of Progress in Radar Altimetry Symposium
16-18 36th Annual Arctic Workshop (Boulder, Colorado)
21-24: Climate Prediction Applications Science Workshop (Tuscon, Arizon)
27-29: Workshop on Tropical Cyclones and Climate (Palisades, New York)
27-31: DOE ARM Meeting (Albuquerque, New Mexico)

April 2006:
18-20: International CLIVAR SSG-14 (Argentina)
19-21: NSTC Joint Subcommittee on Ocean Science and Technology (Denver, Colorado)
19-21: PICES/GLOBEC Symposium on Climate Variability and Ecosystem impacts on the North Pacific (Honolulu, Hawaii)
22-23: 9th VAMOS Panel Meeting (Brazil)
24-28: 8th International Conference on Southern Hemisphere Meteorology and Oceanography (Brazil)

May 2006:
2-4: SAMOS/GOSUD Meeting (Boulder, Colorado)
8-10: US CLIVAR Salinity Workshop (Woods Hole, MA)
10-12: Aquarius/SAC-D Workshop (Woods Hole, MA)
10-12: NOAA Climate Observation Program – 4th Annual Review (Silver Spring, MD)

Position Announcements

1. Florida State University (COAPS) announces 3 Postdoctoral positions

The Center for Ocean-Atmospheric Predictions Studies (COAPS) at the Florida State University (FSU) invites applications for three (3) postdoctoral positions available for a one-year appointment, renewable for a second year. A Ph. D. in Physical Oceanography or related fields (Meteorology, Computer Sciences, etc.) is required. The successful applicants are expected to interact and collaborate with the scientists/faculty of COAPS and other FSU departments. We are especially interested in candidates with a strong modeling background to work on a) coupled ocean-atmosphere climate modeling with HYCOM in the NCAR CCSM, b) evaluation of ocean data assimilation techniques in the Gulf of Mexico, and c) decadal variability of the Mediterranean outflow. Preference will be given to applicants who are interested in starting their own research programs. COAPS is expending and research opportunities will be available to the successful candidates. Review of applications will begin after March 1, 2006.

Applications, including curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests, and three letters of recommendation, should be sent to:
Prof. Eric Chassignet
Center for Ocean-Atmospheric Predictions Studies
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL  32306-2840

The Florida State University is committed to a policy of non-discrimination for the university community on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran's or marital status, or any other protected group status.

2. University of Hamburg - tenured Full Professor position

The Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences seeks to fill within the Center of Marine and Climate Sciences (ZMK) a tenured Full Professorship (W3) in  Experimental Physical Oceanography. Jointly with the Max-Planck-Institute for Meteorology, the ZMK forms the Center of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences performing  fundamental, interdisciplinary research on the dynamics of the  Earth System. The immediate scientific environment includes direct access to the DKRZ and an established cooperation with other research institutions in the Hamburg area, devoted to coastal research, hydrography, maritime meteorology and fisheries research. Currently, the ZMK also oversees the operation of the German research vessels “Meteor” and “Maria S. Merian”. 

The successful candidate will be responsible for research and education in the field of experimental physical oceanography. The candidate must have a documented track record of exceptional research, and have a demonstrable success in performance and funding of research projects. Furthermore, the candidate will have a research profile showing  an emphasis on the development of process-oriented research in physical oceanography and on the evolution of interdisciplinary in situ observational strategies for the ocean as part of the climate system. The successful candidate is expected to oversee the management of the research vessels “Meteor” and “Maria S. Merian”. Interest in cross-disciplinary research would be advantageous.

The University of Hamburg aims at increasing the number of women as scientific staff and therefore specifically requests applications from qualified women for this position. Disabled persons are given priority over applicants of equal suitability, qualification and degree of specialized knowledge.

Teaching requirements: 8 hours per week during each term. A willingness to teach courses in English will be welcomed.

Starting date: after 1. October 2006.Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a list of previously taught courses and a vision for future research and teaching. The documents are to be sent before April 15, 2006 to the

President of the University of Hamburg
Ref. 631.5, Kennziffer 1903/W3
Moorweidenstr. 18
D-20148 Hamburg
Germany

3. Texas A&M – assistant professor in high-resolution paleoclimate and paleoceanography

The Department of Oceanography invites applications at the assistant professor level in high-resolution paleoclimate and paleoceanography. We seek applicants who use biogeochemical and other marine proxies to investigate variations in climate, ocean circulation, ocean chemistry, sea level, or other phenomena related to past environmental change on short geologic timescales (e.g., interannual through millennial). The candidate should be an accomplished individual with a strong record of oceanographic research, and a commitment to teaching and mentoring graduate students.

Contact: Dr. Will Sager, Search Committee Chair, Department of Oceanography,
Texas A&M University, College Station, TX  77843-3146. wsager@tamu.edu

ANNOUNCEMENTS

This report card is issued by the Joint Ocean Commission Initiative, a collaborative effort of the Commissioners of the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy and the Pew Oceans Commission to catalyze ocean policy reform. The report card is intended to provide an assessment of progress, and, perhaps most importantly, to lay out an agenda for action for 2006.  The accompanying letter is from Admiral James D. Watkins and the Honorable Leon E. Panetta, chairs of the U.S. and Pew Commissions, respectfully, and provides additional background and rationale for the report card. For additional questions or further information, please contact: http://www.jointoceancommission.org

Boosting U.S. Competitiveness through Ocean ResearchThe deep ocean is the largest ecosystem in the world, yet we know less about it than we do about the surface of the Moon. The American Geophysical Union (AGU) has adopted a new position statement supporting the findings of the 2004 US Ocean Commission Report and calling for a renewal of investment in oceans research.

The AGU statement will be available at the briefings or may be seen at http://www.agu.org/sci_soc/policy/positions/oceaninvest.shtml

This newsletter will be emailed quarterly to all WCRP friends, stakeholders and researchers. We are lookinorward to receiving your comments and input for e-zine No. 2!
Longer news articles on WCRP research and activities are published on the news link of the WCRP website (www.wmo.int/web/wcrp/news.htm). Please check regularly for updates.

The WCRP is keen to receive your feedback on this new venture in science communication. Please let them know:
1.      Do you like the e-zine?
2.      Can you suggest improvements? (Note it is planned to keep it small to email easily).
3.      Do you like the proposed frequency (once every 3 months); if not, what do you recommend?

Also, please let them know if you (do not) wish to receive e-zine No. 2 in June.
Please send your replies to wcrp@wmo.int or directly to carndt@wmo.int.

"Understanding the role of the Indian Ocean in the climate system - Implementation plan for sustained observations" is now available to download at: http://eprints.soton.ac.uk/19645/

A hard copy can be sent on request if you are unable to access the pdf. Contact the
International CLIVAR Project Office
Room 256/20 National Oceanography Centre University of Southampton Waterfront Campus, SOUTHAMPTON SO14 3ZH, UK email: icpo@noc.soton.ac.uk

The Pan-WCRP Monsoon Workshop (15-17 June 2005, University of California, Irvine, USA) report is availae VAMOS web page: http://www.clivar.org/organization/vamos/index.htm)

The Report of the 9th Meeting of the CLIVAR Working Group on Seasonal to Interannual Prediction is available to download at: http://www.clivar.org/publications/wg_reports/wgsip/wgsip9.pdf

A hard copy can be sent on request if you are unable to access the pdf.  Contact the International CLIVAR Project OfficeRoom 256/20 National Oceanography Centre University of Southampton Waterfront Campus, SOUTHAMPTON SO14 3ZH, UK email: icpo@noc.soton.ac.uk

Meetings and Workshops
4. U.S. CLIVAR Salinity Workshop

The U.S. CLIVAR Salinity Working Group is sponsoring a workshop on 8-10 May 2006 at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. All investigators (PIs, post-docs and students) working toward the understanding of the regional and global processes linked to the variability and trends of salinity in the coupled climate system are invited. Those able to address the technical challenges of long-term salinity measurements are also welcome.  The goal of the workshop is to produce a “white paper” articulating the significance of salinity measurements to the advancement of understanding, and ultimately predicting, climate; outlining the necessary measurements; and describing additional activities to enable the full utilization of these measurements. To this end the meeting format will entail invited presentations, and an emphasis on group discussions, with poster space available to all attendees.
The Workshop will be held in the Redfield Auditorium of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, May 8-10, 2006. The Aquarius/SAC-D Third Science Workshop (May 10-12) will follow immediately afterwards. Given thestrong connection between the workshop goals and the satellite mission's surface salinity measurement capabilities, people may wish to attend both workshops. For more information, visit: www.usclivar.org

Registration and Abstract Deadline - 15 March 2006
Poster files (pdf) should be sent to Cathy Stephens in the US CLIVAR Office by 5 May 2006
To register online for the Salinity Workshop or the Aquarius Workshop: www.regonline.com/87055

5. Guiding National Ocean Research Investment:  Public Workshop on the Ocean Research Priorities

The National Science and Technology Council Joint Subcommittee on Ocean Science and Technology is holdina a public workshop on April 18-20, 2006 in Denver, CO, to solicit input and guidance from the ocean science communities on the Ocean Research Priorities Plan (ORPP). Called for in the Ocean Action Plan, the ORPP, in conjunction with the forthcoming Implementation Strategy, will describe a vision for U.S. ocean science and technology, describe the challenges to be addressed, identify key themes, specify goals for each theme and a time frame for their achievement, and address implications for the use or prioritization of resources. Members from the research community, government representatives (federal, state, tribal, and local), industry groups, international representatives, non-governmental organizations, and any individuals interested in helping guide national ocean research are invited to attend.  For more information on the ORPP and the workshop, go to: http://ocean.ceq.gov/about/jsost.html

In addition to the workshop, interested parties will have the opportunity to provide comments on the ORRP during a 45-day public comment period, scheduled to open mid-March, 2006.  Check back to the web page often for more information.

Contact: Shelby E. Walker, USGCRP/CCSP Office, 1717 Pennsylvania Ave., Suite 250, Washington, DC  20006 (tel: 202-419-3464; fax: 202-223-3064; e-mail: swalker@usgcrp.gov).

6. AGU 2006 Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting (WPGM)
Beijing, China, 24-27 July 2006

The deadline for the abstract online submission is 16 March 2006.
Please find more information through the following AGU website: http://www.agu.org/meetings/wp06/?content=search&show=detail&sessid=142

A13: Climate in the Western Pacific

Description: The western Pacific is one of the largest heat sources that drives the atmospheric general circulation. Further, its year- to year variability, with an amplitulade tripling the Indian monsoon variability, plays a critical role in affecting East Asia monsoon and a broad scale south Asian monsoon; it also exerts an global influence, including Australia and Southern Indian Ocean, as well as North America and the frequency of occurrence of the blocking highs in the extratropics. The tropical cyclones and typhoons generated over the western Pacific frequently lead to dramatic economic loss and casualties in South Asia and East Asia. The most powerful winter northerly exemplifies the strongest tropical-extratropical interaction and the hemispheric interactions between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The western Pacific is one of the key regions where the Asian monsoon interacts with the ENSO. Besides, some evidences show that the variability of climate in the western Pacific is associated with the Arctic Oscillation (AO) and Southern Hemisphere annular mode (SAM). However, the physical processes related to the climate variations and changes over the western Pacific are far from well understood. Of note is also the fact that the existing AGCMs and coupled model's simulations of mean and anomalous climate in this region are among the most problematic regions. The climate variability in the western Pacific contains rich temporal spectrums, ranged from intraseasonal, interannual, to interdecadal timescales. This symposium invites papers on all aspects that are related to the variability of the climate in the western Pacific, including observational, theoretical and numerical tudies on the modern period and those dealing with the variability on longer time scale variability in the past.

A09: Verification and Development of Climate Models with State-of-the-art Observations

This session is to solicit papers on theoretical, observational and numerical modeling studies of various physical processes, including clouds, cloud microphysics, radiation, convection, and boundary-layer processes. The tropics include: 1) recent observations of these processes from field experiments, satellite and aircraft missions; 2)validation of physical parameterizations against observations using various modeling approaches, including single-column model, cloud-resolving model, evaluation of climate model in short-range weather forecasts and climate simulations, and multi-scale modeling approach; 3)improvement of existing and development of new physical parameterizations for use in climate models.

7. Third ICTP Workshop on the Theory and use of Regional Climate Models
29 May - 9 June, 2006

The Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (Abdus Salam ICTP) is organizing its 'Third Workshop on the theory and use of regional climate models" to be held from 31 May to 9 June 2006 in Trieste, Italy.

Regional climate models are very important climate research tools available to scientists from developing countries. The ICTP Earth System Physics group maintains and distributes a state-of-the-art regional climate model (RegCM3), which is currently used by a wide research community for a range of studies. The community forms the basis of a regional climate research network (RegCNET) aimed at developing research projects related to climate change issues over different regions of the world. This workshop is intended to provide lectures and hands-on sessions on the theory of regional climate change and regional climate modeling as well as the use of the RegCM modeling system. This years workshop will also cover aspects of climate impacts on agriculture, hydrology, and air quality. The workshop will cover the following topics:
- The physical processes that regulate regional climates
- Climate change and seasonal prediction at the regional scale
- Regional climate information from global climate models
- Regional climate modeling and the ICTP RegCM3
- Biosphere-atmosphere interactions
- Climate impacts on agriculture, hydrology, and air quality
- Extreme events, flood, and drought

The workshop is intended for scientists and graduate students working in the areas of Atmospheric Physics and Dynamics, Climatology, Oceanography, Physics and Mathematics. It is open to scientists from all member countries of the United Nations, UNESCO, and IAEA. Although the main purpose of the Abdus Salam ICTP is to help researchers from developing countries through a program based on international cooperation, scientists from developed countries are also welcome to attend. The activity will be conducted in English, Limited funding (including travel grants) for participation in the workshop is available for scientists from developing countries. No registration fee is required.

8. European Science Foundation-Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (ESF-JSPS) Frontier Science Conference Series for Young Researchers on Climate Change
24-29 June 2006 Nynäshamn, Sweden

Deadline for applications and abstract submission: Thursday, 23 March 2006
Application and Program available at: http://www.esf.org/esfjsps/06214

For more information, please contact: Ms. Anne Geuhl
E-mail: aguehl@esf.org

Climate change caused by global warming represents one of the greatest challenges of the 21st Century, necessitating the engagement of all sections of society, local and global. This conference will address the climate variability at different time and spatial scales by taking into account the coupling between the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, cryosphere, and geosphere. Beyond the comprehensive analysis of climate variability and its causes, the conference will address the predicted effects of climate change on ecosystems, agriculture, human health and infrastructure.

The European Science Foundation-Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (ESF-JSPS) conference will bring together leading researchers and young scientists from Europe and Japan to review recent progress and future prospects in their areas of expertise. An interactive session among participants will give the opportunity to discuss future trends and needs in climate research. Poster sessions are planned, with posters on display for the whole duration of the conference.

Sessions will focus on the following topics:
- Intraseasonal, Seasonal, Interannual Variations: Atmospheric Variability
- Decadal, Centennial, Millennial Variations: Variability of Atmosphere-Ocean System
- Variations for Million-to-Billion Years: Change of the Earth System (Atmosphere-  Hydrosphere-Biosphere-Cryosphere-Geosphere)
- Climate Variability: Spatial Scale Issues
- Future Climate Change
- Ecological Effects of Climate Change
- Human Dimensions of Climate Change
- The Future of Climate Change

9. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) 31st Annual Climate Diagnostics and Prediction Workshop

NOAA’s 31st Climate Diagnostics and Prediction Workshop (CDPW) will be held in Boulder, Colorado, October 23-27, 2006. The workshop will be co-hosted by the Climate Diagnostics Center and by the Climate Prediction Center of the National Centers for Environmental Prediction/NOAA.

Focus will be on three themes: (i) climate predictions/predictability, (ii) climate attribution, and (iii) the NOAA Climate Test Bed. The workshop will combine presentations on existing, as well as recent advances in scientific understanding and capabilities with discussions on requirements for decision support. The outcome of this year’s workshop will include an assessment of current operational prediction capabilities, identifying opportunities for advance, and exploring new products to support regional decision making. The workshop will provide enhanced opportunity for participants to exchange information, ideas, and opinions through panel discussions and thematic, focus talks. The primary focal areas for the workshop will include: - A review of recent climate conditions and forecasts for week-2 to seasonal time scales.
-  Prediction practices for time scales from week-2 to seasonal, and for lead times from zero to 12 months.
-  Predictability and forecast verification assessments for time scales from week-2 to seasonal, and for lead times from zero to 12 months.
-  Regional decision support requirements of predictions for time scales from week-2 to seasonal, and for lead times from zero to 12 months.
- Attribution methodologies for explaining climate variability, including extreme events (e.g., hurricanes), seasonal climate, and trends.
-  Attribution of climate conditions, including extreme events (e.g., hurricanes), seasonal climate, and trends.
-  Regional decision support requirements for explaining climate conditions and extremes.
-  Mechanisms and pathways for transferring research to products and operations
- Climate test bed activities

The Workshop will feature focused oral sessions consisting of selected presentations, followed by panel discussions and ample time for discussions; the majority of presentations will be posters.

A website for the workshop will be linked though: http://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/outreach/CDPW31.shtml and will contain further information. Please send your abstracts to: Ncep.list.cpc-cdworkshop@noaa.gov by the deadline JULY 7, 2006. Include title, author(s), affiliation(s), abstract, phone and fax number, as well as preference for a poster or an oral presentation. However, please be aware that most papers will be included in the poster sessions.

April 2006
U.S. CLIVAR News-gram
Table of Contents
===================

Research Opportunities and Calls for Papers

Position Announcements

Announcements:

Meeting and Workshop Announcements

CALENDAR of UPCOMING EVENTS (for more information -  www.usclivar.org/calendar.html)

April 2006:
18-20: International CLIVAR SSG-14 (Argentina)
19-21: NSTC Joint Subcommittee on Ocean Science and Technology (Denver, Colorado)
19-21: PICES/GLOBEC Symposium on Climate Variability and Ecosystem impacts on the North Pacific (Honolulu, Hawaii)
22-23: 9th VAMOS Panel Meeting (Brazil)
24-26: DOE Climate Change Prediction Program Science Team Meeting (Boston, MA)
24-28: 8th International Conference on Southern Hemisphere Meteorology and Oceanography (Brazil)

May 2006:
2-4: SAMOS/GOSUD Meeting (Boulder, Colorado)
4-5: AMMA Workshop (Washington, DC)
8-10: US CLIVAR Salinity Workshop (Woods Hole, MA)
10-12: Aquarius/SAC-D Workshop (Woods Hole, MA)
10-12: NOAA Climate Observation Program – 4th Annual Review (Silver Spring, MD)

June 2006:
6-9: Understanding Sea-level Rise and Variability (Paris, France)
12-15: Holivar2006 Open Science Meeting on Natural Climate Variability and Global Warming (London)
20-22: CCSM 11th Annual Workshop (Breckenridge, CO)

 

Research Opportunities and Calls for Papers

1. NASA ROSES Amendment
This amendment makes the adjustments to ROSES-2006 that are required to align ROSES-2006 with NASA’s FY06 operating budget and the President’s requested FY07 budget for NASA. Some solicitations will result in fewer awards and some solicitations will not beoffered in 2006.

On or about March 17, 2006, Amendment No. 5 to the NASA Research Announcement "Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Sciences (ROSES) 2006" (NNH06ZDA001N) will be posted on the NASA research opportunity homepage.
Subsequent to the release of ROSES-2006, the NASA operating plan for fiscal year (FY) 2006 and the President‚s budget request for FY07 were released (http://www.nasa.gov/about/budget). The actual FY06 and proposed FY07 NASA budgets included reductions in funding for Science Mission Directorate Research and Analysis (R&A) programs. Specifically the proposed FY07 budget includes a 15% reduction for R&A in most disciplines and a 50% reduction in astrobiology. These budgets are sufficiently different from the planning budgets that were used to develop ROSES-2006 that adjustments are required in several ROSES-2006 program elements to beconsistent with NASA’s FY06 operating budget and the President’s requested NASA FY07 budget.

In consultation with the science community, through the National Research Council and the NASA Advisory Council, NASA is studying the mix in the NASA science program between R&A programs, small missions, and large missions. If any changes are made before proposals are received by NASA, then ROSES-2006 will be further amended to indicate which programs have additional funding for new awards or to announce proposal due dates for those programs whose 2006 solicitations are under review.

Summary of Changes - please see complete amendment for details.

****** Editors note: Best bet is to check regularly the 2006 ROSES Research Opportunity Announcement as multiple amendmentshave now been issued and are likely to be issued in the future as NASA works through their budget challenges:
http://nspires.nasaprs.com/external/
******

The following Appendices are amended to indicate reduced funding for new awards in FY07: - Appendix A.3: Terrestrial Ecology and Biodiversity.  - Appendix A.8: Precipitation Science. - Appendix A.10: Atmospheric Composition: Research and Modeling.  - Appendix A.14: Interdisciplinary Research in Earth Science. - Appendix A.15: Earth System Science Research using EOS Satellites.  - Appendix B.2: Solar and Heliospheric Physics. - Appendix B.3: Geospace Science. - Appendices C.2 to C.12, C.16, C.17,C.19, and E.3: Planetary Science Research Program

The following solicitations are under review for 2006. The previously announced due dates are cancelled. Should sufficient funding be made available for a 2006 solicitation, NASA will issue another announcement. - Appendix A.5: Physical Oceanography. 
- Appendix A.11: Earth Surface and Interior. - Appendix D.3: Long Term Space Astrophysics. - Appendix D.7: Terrestrial Planet Finder Foundation Science. 

The following solicitations are canceled for 2006. No proposals are solicited and no awards will be made. - Appendix C.18: Astrobiology: Exobiology and Evolutionary Biology. - Appendix C.20: Astrobiology Science and Technology Instrument Development and Mission Concept Studies.  - Appendix C.21: Astrobiology Science and Technology for Exploring Planets.

The following solicitation has been rescoped. The proposal due date is delayed to August 1, 2006. - Appendix A.9: Atmospheric Composition: Tropical Composition, Cloud, and Climate Coupling Experiment.

Questions about specific program elements should be addressed to the NASA Program Officer identified in the relevant ROSES appendix. Questions concerning the ROSES NRA may be addressed to Dr. Paul Hertz, Chief Scientist, Science Mission Directorate, NASA Headquarters, Washington, DC 20546-0001; Telephone: (202) 358-0986; E-mail: Paul.Hertz@nasa.gov

2. National Science Foundation Solicitation Released "Antarctic Research"
National Science Foundation solicitation "Antarctic Research" (NSF 06-549) has been released:
http://www.nsf.gov/funding/pgm_summ.jsp?pims_id=5519&org=ANT&from=home

The "Antarctic Research" solicitation is for support of projects in Antarctica during the 2007-2008 austral summer or projects in the United States beginning in early 2007. The proposal submission deadline is Wednesday, 7 June 2006.

The goals of the U.S. Government in Antarctica are to expand fundamental knowledge of the region, to foster research on global and regional problems of current scientific importance, and to use Antarctica as a platform from which to support research. For projects involving fieldwork, the U.S. Antarctic Program supports only that research that can be done exclusively in Antarctica or that can be done best from Antarctica. The program also supports analytical research performed at home organizations. NSF recently released the solicitation "International Polar Year" (NSF 06-534) http://www.nsf.gov/funding/pgm_summ.jsp?pims_id=13615, which focuses on specific emphases areas in science, education, and outreach. However, IPY-relevant proposals (as outlined in the National Academy of Science vision document, http://www.us-ipy.org) that are outside these emphasis areas may be submitted to this Antarctic Research solicitation. Additional information concerning other NSF IPY-related funding opportunities is available online at: http://www.nsf.gov/od/opp/ipy/ipyinfo.jsp For information concerning other Federal agencies and their IPY programs, please go to the U.S. government interagency IPY site at: http://www.us-ipy.gov/

Position Announcements

3. Faculty Positions - Earth System Science Interdisciplinary Center (ESSIC) University of Maryland, College Park

The Earth System Science Interdisciplinary Center (ESSIC) at the University of Maryland invites applications for two tenure-trackacademic faculty positions pertaining to interactions of the atmosphere-ocean-land system.

ESSIC is a joint center between the University of Maryland Departments of Atmospheric and Oceanic Science, Geology, and Geography together with the Earth-Sun Exploration Division at the NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center. ESSIC also administers the Cooperative Institute for Climate Studies (CICS) which is joint with NOAA‚s National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) and the National Environmental Satellite and Data Information Service (NESDIS). The goal of ESSIC is to enhance our understanding of how the atmosphere-ocean-land-biosphere components of the Earth interact as a coupled system and the influence of human activities on this system. This is accomplished via studies of the interaction between the physical climate system (e.g., El Nino, NAO) and biogeochemical cycles (e.g., greenhouse gases, changes in land use and cover). The major research thrusts of the center are studies of Climate Variability and Change, Atmospheric Composition and Processes, the Global Carbon Cycle (including Terrestrial and Marine Ecosystems/Land Use/Cover Change), and the Global Water Cycle. The manner in which this research is accomplished is via analyses of in situ and remotely sensed observations along with component and coupled ocean-atmosphere-land models. Together this provides a foundation for understanding and forecasting changes in the global environment and regional implications. Data assimilation and regional downscaling provide the means by which the observations and models are linked to study the interactions between the physical climate system and biogeochemical cycles from global to regional scales.

Presently, the ESSIC staff is composed of approximately 50 academic and research faculty spanning meteorology, oceanography, geology, and geography. Applications are solicited in one or more of the following general areas:

·            Land Surface Hydrology, Land-Atmosphere Interactions
·            Paleoclimate
·            Marine and/or Terrestrial Ecosystem Feedbacks to the Physical Climate System
·            Earth System Modeling

The positions are expected to be filled at the Assistant/Associate Professor level, but applications from senior distinguished candidates will be considered as well. The appointments are state-funded for the nine-month academic year. A Ph.D. degree in an appropriate discipline of Earth System Science is required. The successful applicants are expected to demonstrate a commitment to excellence in research and teaching and a desire to work in a multi-disciplinary environment. The successful applicants are expected to participate in the teaching program of the Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Science, Geology, or Geography to guide graduate students toward advanced degrees, to conduct independent, cross-discipline research, to publish research results, and to compete for grants and contracts.
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In order to ensure full consideration, curriculum vitae, statement of professional goals, and the names of at least three references should be sent by June 30, 2006 to:

Professor Ragu Murtugudde
Chair, Search Committee
Earth System Science Interdisciplinary Center (ESSIC) 224 Computer and Space Science Building, Room 2207 University of Maryland
College Park, MD 20742-2425

4. The Center for Research on Environment and Water Position Announcements

POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS: The Center for Research on Environment and Water (http://crew.iges.org) invites applications for two (2) post-doctoral positions. CREW's mission is to quantify and predict water cycle and environmental consequences of earth systemvariability and change through focused research investments in observation, modeling, and application. Post-doc position 1 requires a water and energy cycle scientist to quantify global water and energy cycle trends and variability using satellite data, and earth system model predictions. The successful candidate will work within a larger NASA team framework (the NASA Energy and Water cycle Study) to help provide the NEWS team a science integration framework. Responsibilities include data integration, linkage building, crosscutting science and science gap filling. A Ph.D. with an active research interest in scientific observation, analysis, modeling and prediction of the water cycle systems or closely related disciplines is required. Post-doc position 2 requires a land surface modeling or data assimilation scientist to develop and evaluate Kalman Filter data assimilation approaches for the assimilation of MODIS and AMSR land data products into the Noah land surface model as implemented in the Land Data Assimilation System (LDAS). Responsibilities include incorporating relevant satellite land remote sensing data sets into the LDAS, developing implementing the Kalman Filter to assimilate selected data and to examine the benefit of assimilation for forecasting applications. Work will be done at CREW under supervision of Dr. Paul Houser. The positions are available 21 March 2006 and are contingent on availability of funds and project needs. Excellent benefits are available. Please send an application with curriculum vitae, statement of research interests, and names of three references to: CREW Post-Doc Search, ATTN: Deborah R. Belvedere, Center for Research on Environment and Water, 4041 Powder Mill Road, Suite 302; Calverton, MD 20705-3106,Fax: (301) 595-9790 Email: debbie@iges.org, The positions will remain open until filled. CREW is an equal opportunity employer; women and minority candidates are especially encouraged to apply.
            WATER CYCLE SCIENTIST: The Center for Research on Environment and Water (http://crew.iges.org) is seeking a full time PhD scientist for global water and energy research. CREW's mission is to quantify and predict water cycle and environmental consequences of earth system variability and change through focused research investments in observation, modeling and application. CREW is envisioned to integrate research across traditional disciplines to develop an end-to-end program; therefore preference will be given to applications who have demonstrated an active research interest in scientific observation, analysis, modeling and prediction of the water cycle systems that will eventually lead to better prediction and application. The candidate would be expected to establish linkages between relevant expertise within the research community, to identify and bridge gaps in technological, observational and modeling activities, and to develop a strong externally-funded research program.
The position will be preformed at CREW in Calverton, MD. Appointments can begin as soon as a suitable candidate is found and will remain open until filled. Please send your curriculum vitae with a list of three references and statements of career objectives, research interests and approach to Deborah Belvedere, Center for Research on Environment and Water, 4041 Powder Mill Road, Calverton, MD, 20705, or by email to (debbie@iges.org). Salary is commensurate with qualifications. This is a continuing appointment that will be renewed each year, subject to satisfactory performance and the availability of funds generated by grants and contracts to CREW.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

The NCAR/Earth Observing Laboratory (EOL) has completed the Hourly and Daily Precipitation "Composites" (including associated station lists) for the 2004 NAME Field Phase (1 June 2004-30 Sept 2004) and are available via the NAME Master Dataset List at: http://www.joss.ucar.edu/name/dm/archive/.These composites were created by extracting all precipitation observations in the NAME domain, converting them to a common format, and subjecting them to uniform gross limit checks. Further details are provided in the associated on-line documentation (i.e. "readme" files).

There are 38,764 stations included in the final NAME 2004 Station List and this file is linked under the Cross-Platform Category of the Master Dataset List, or directly at: http://www.joss.ucar.edu/cgi-bin/codiac/dss?82.179

The precipitation "composites" are listed in both the Precipitation and Land Based Categories of the NAME Master Dataset List. The stations not included in these "composites" are some surface stations which did not measure precipitation, sounding data, andmanyUSGS Streamflow stations.

As a reminder, the NAME upper air composites released in February 2006 for the entire NAME Field Phase (1 June 2004-30 Sept 2004) are located at: Upper Air Multi-Network "Composite" (5-mb Level):
http://www.joss.ucar.edu/cgi-bin/codiac/dss?82.157
Upper Air Multi-Network "Composite" (Highest Resolution): http://www.joss.ucar.edu/cgi-bin/codiac/dss?82.143
All these "composites" are a complicated effort and a major contribution to the NAME project. Please inform us if you find any problems or issues with these data.

The Polar Research Board of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences announces the availability (in prepublication form) of a new report called "Toward an Integrated Arctic Observing Network."

The report can be read online or downloaded in PDF format at no cost from:
http://www.nap.edu/catalog/11607.html

The report, commissioned by the National Science Foundation (NSF), presents a vision and implementation ideas for an integrated arctic observing network (AON) built from existing and planned observation programs and efforts. Its recommendations reflect the consensus of an 18-member committee with international membership and broad-ranging experience. Over the course of the last 18 months, the committee benefited from a wide variety of inputs from the community, in particular through workshops in Denmark and Alaska.

The report is aimed at both scientists and decision makers and should have relevance both in the United States and abroad. With the report now available, the momentum shifts to the community to consider the AON concept, the extent to which existing and planned activities complement this vision, and the partnerships that could be enhanced or developed to bring the vision to reality. With all that already exists, and the international dialog and planning for the International Polar Year, there is an opportunity for immediate and significant progress toward an integrated arctic observing network.

 Consult the latest news at the following address: http://www.imber.info/newsletters.html

NOTICE: NASA’s  Associate Administrator for the Science Mission Directorate, Dr. Mary L. Cleave, has issued a “Dear Colleague” letter as a means of conveying current NASA science status and plans to the community. This letter addresses the following topics: Science Mission Directorate Organization; Science Advice and Prioritization; Strategic Planning; Role in Human Exploration of Space;and Fiscal Year 2007 Budget. NASA invites your attention to this letter at: http://science.hq.nasa.gov/DearColleague03-06.

Meetings and Workshops
5. U.S.-Mexico workshop on Monsoon Region Climate Applications
8-11 May 2006 in Guaymas, Mexico

This workshop is intended to forge links between the monsoon and climate science efforts in the region affected by the monsoon and social-science and applications efforts seeking to understand sensitivities of users and needs for climate forecasts and information. In addition, the program is intended to integrate climate science with regional planning and policy, in particular, water management, drought management, ecosystem resources, and public health.  Finally, we want to plan for activities to develop and make climate information available across the region.  The monsoon region, for the purposes of this workshop, includes monsoon-influenced areas in northwestern Mexico and the western United States, the U.S.-Mexico border region as a distinct cultural and socio-economic area. 

One impetus for this workshop is interpreting emerging results of the North American Monsoon Experiment (NAME), an internationally coordinated, joint CLIVAR-GEWEX process study aimed at determining the sources and limits of predictability of warm season precipitation over North America, with emphasis on time scales ranging from seasonal-to-interannual. However, to reflect the reality that the needs of potential users relate not just to the monsoon but a broader set of climate and contextual issues, this workshop is designed to connect a broader suite of climate knowledge to climate-sensitive societal problems in the region, including but not limited to the monsoon.

The workshop, which will have both English and Spanish simultaneous translation, will begin Monday evening with a reception and plenary talks on how climate affects planning and policy issues in the monsoon region, followed by two and a half days of focused presentations, panel discussions, a poster session, and planning sessions.  The meeting will adjourn at 1:30 on Thursday, May 11th. The conference web page is: http://www.ispe.arizona.edu/climas/conferences/monsoon2006/index.html. Contact Andrea Ray (303-497-6434, or andrea.ray@noaa.gov) for additional information.

6. 2006 North America Drought Monitor workshop
18-19 October, Mexico City

The 2006 North America Drought Monitor workshop will be held October 18-19, 2006 in Mexico City.  This is part of a continuing effort between the U.S., Mexico and Canada to provide decision makers with drought information for planning, mitigation, and response activities.  Through monthly North America Drought Monitor products and associated drought data and indicators, this team has provided information on the state of drought across the continent since 2002.

This year's NADM workshop is another in a series of biannual meetings that are part of ongoing efforts to improve continental-scale drought monitoring from both scientific and societal aspects.  It is open to anyone interested in these activities regardless of involvement with the trilateral team and no registration fee is required.

Technical and user issues to be given special attention include:

Presentations on a variety of drought-related subjects are encouraged and participation is open to interested parties from the public and private sector.  Special consideration will be given to discussions in the following areas.

     * Defining drought in arid climates
     * Defining drought in high latitude regions
     * Incorporating forecasted conditions into drought index calculations
     * Use of station-based drought indices in the U.S.
     * Development and use of new drought indices and indicators
     * Use of the Palmer Drought Index in Canada
     * Quantifying drought when objective indicators are not aligned with impacts
     * Data set development and quality control issues in undersampled regions
    * Meeting the drought information needs of users and decision makers

Additional details including registration information are available online at http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/oa/climate/research/2006/nadmworkshop/nadm-workshop06mexcty.php

Early registration is encouraged as seating capacity is limited.

7. RAPID International Conference
The RAPID International Conference would like to invite submission of abstracts for papers to be presented at the meeting.The deadline for abstracts is 15th July 2006.

The call for papers and abstract submission information is at: http://rapid.nerc.ac.uk/rapid2006/ic06call.php and
http://www.noc.soton.ac.uk/rapid//rapid2006/submitabs.php

In addition, a workshop on the 8.2 ka event is being organised in conjunction with the PAGES / CLIVAR working group. For more details see: http://www.noc.soton.ac.uk/rapid//rapid2006/workshop82.php
The main conference home page is at: http://rapid.nerc.ac.uk/rapid2006/

8. 3rd WGNE Workshop on Systematic Errors in Climate and NWP Models
San Francisco, February 12-16, 2007

The JSC/CAS Working Group on Numerical Experimentation (WGNE) and the Program for Climate Model Diagnosis and Intercomparison (PCMDI) will host a Workshop on Systematic Errors in Climate and NWP Models. The workshop will be held in San Francisco, CA, USA, during the week of February 12th, 2007. The workshop will be held at the newly renovated financial district Hilton - http://www.hilton.com/en/hi/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=SFOFDHF

Although the principal goal of the workshop will be to increase understanding of the errors and their causes in coupled climate models, it is anticipated that, as in previous workshops, the focus will be on Atmospheric General Circulation Models (AGCMs). A wide variety of diagnostic techniques will be discussed, including traditional analysis methods applied to global models, process studies, the use of diagnostic models (e.g., single-column, cloud-resolving), and simplified experiments (e.g, AMIP, aqua-planet). Of special interest will be studies that consider errors found in multiple models (i.e., are pervasive) and that are likely to have implications for climate projections. Errors relevant to both component and coupled models (e.g., surface fluxes) will also be of particular interest.

The following WCRP working groups will contribute to the coordination of the workshop: The Working Group on Coupled Models (WGCM), the GEWEX Model and Prediction Panel (GMPP), and the Working Group on Seasonal to Interannual Prediction (WGSIP). Details, as planning progresses, will be posted at the following website: http://www-pcmdi.llnl.gov/wgne2007

9. 2006 ASP Summer Colloquium:  The Art of Climate Modeling

Climate system models incorporating important physical, chemical, and biological interactions between the land, ocean, and atmosphere are currently being developed and used to predict future climate and to guide policymakers. These models include processes that span traditional disciplines, and understanding the behavior of the coupled system will require a new type of scientist. This colloquium is designed to introduce accomplished graduate students with a strong background in a physical science and mathematics to the fundamentals of climate modeling. The program aims to foster the next generation of climate modelers (as distinct from climate model users) by engaging students in lectures, modeling laboratory classes and project work involving coupled climate models at an early stage in the graduate's career. The goal of the course is to provide advanced training not only in how to use the model, but in understanding their theoretical and practical underpinnings to be able to improve them for emerging scientific tasks.

For more information, please see http://www.asp.ucar.edu/colloquium/2006/

10. 2006 SORCE Science Meeting
20-22 September, San Juan Islands, Washington

The 2006 SORCE Science Meeting is motivated by the NASA/EOS Solar Radiation and Climate Experiment (SORCE). Please share this first announcement with colleagues. Additional information can be found at: http://lasp.colorado.edu/sorce/2006ScienceMeeting/. Solar radiation is the primary energy sources for many processes in Earth's environment and is responsible for driving the atmospheric and oceanic circulations. SORCE is currently measuring the solar irradiance at the top of the atmosphere, and the magnitude and spectral distribution of this solar radiation is modified from the SORCE-measured values via scattering and absorption within the atmosphere and at the surface. Several of the key issues to be addressed include:

* Present knowledge of the Earth's radiation budget from space, from within that atmosphere, and at the surface
* Key processes that control Earth's albedo
* Key radiative forcing agents, of natural and anthropogenic origin, and how have their relative influences have changed over the centuries
* Important feedback mechanisms for regulating Earth's climate
* Sensitivity of climate to induced radiative forcing and over what time scales does climate respond
* Role of the biosphere

11.  ESSP Open Science Conference "Global Environmental Change: Regional Challenges"

The Earth System Science Partnership (ESSP) invites scientists, policy makers, practitioners, scholars, members of the private sector and journalists to participate in the ESSP Open Science Conference "Global Environmental Change: Regional Challenges" to be held in Beijing, China, 9-12 November 2006 and to submit contributions now; deadline is 1 May 2006.

http://www.essp.org/ESSP2006/CallPapers_index.html

12. AMMA Workshop Announcement
A workshop to promote and coordinate US contributions to AMMA on land surface, water cycle, aerosol and radiation budget issues.

Rationale for workshop

Given substantial enhancements to the observing system along the AMMA “climate transect” (during the SOP in 2006) including key contributions from NASA (MIT Radar) and DOE (ARM mobile facility), and given the expertise and interest of US PIs working on land surface, water cycle and radiative transfer issues it is timely for AMMA-US to hold a workshop that deals with these issues. It is expected that the planned science and work resulting from this workshop will make a major contribution to the international Working groups in AMMA (especially Water Cycle (WG2) and Land surface atmosphere feedbacks (WG3)).

Aims of workshop

The aims of the workshop are: (i) to provide an overview of the international AMMA project including planned research and field observations (including key US contributions), (ii) to discuss and agree the key science issues related to the water cycle, land surface atmosphere interactions, and radiation issues including in particular the impact of aerosols, (iii) to discuss and agree coordinated actions regarding the US contributions to address these science issues (including how observations and models will be combined), and (iv) to discuss the funding opportunities to support the proposed research.

Dates and Venue

The two-day workshop will take place at Howard University on the 4th and 5th of May 2006.

Organising Committee

The organizing committee currently comprises of  Dara Entekhabi, Paul Houser, Tom Jackson, Greg Jenkins, Arlene Laing, Randy Koster, Peter Lamb, Jim Laver, Rick Lawford, Chris Thorncroft, Steve Williams, Eric Wood

Registration and Contacts

Registration details and contact points will be made available on the AMMA-US webpages shortly. These are being updated at present and can be found at http://www.joss.ucar.edu/amma