The Fellowship programme is more than just a journey into research or honing expertise in weather and climate—it’s a space for discovery, collaboration, and transformation. Whether just starting out or reflecting as seasoned alumni, our fellows take on diverse challenges, from science and outreach to shaping policy. Join us as we follow their paths, share their stories, and celebrate the milestones along the way.
Job shadowing at DWD: Learning, Exploring, and Growing as Fellows
Florentine Weber . November 29, 2024
The Fellowship programme isn’t just about diving deeper into research or becoming an expert in weather and climate—it’s about exploring new perspectives, building connections, and growing personally and professionally. This November, we, three of the four current Fellows—Katerina Anesiadou, Luise Schulte, and Florentine Weber—had the chance to spend a week at DWD headquarters in Offenbach. It was a whirlwind of learning, shadowing, and experiencing the world of operational meteorology and climate monitoring.
Our focus during this visit was the “Climate and Environment” department, particularly KU22 (Greenhouse Gas Emissions Verification) and KU23 (Regional Climate Monitoring). These two teams are doing world-changing work, and we got a front-row seat to see it in action.
“What I enjoyed most was the energy and teamwork I experienced within the project teams we visited.”
KU22: Where Science Meets Action on Greenhouse Gases
Led by Andrea Kaiser-Weiss, KU22 is all about understanding greenhouse gas sources and sinks in Germany through the Integrated Greenhouse Gas Monitoring System (in German: Integrierten Treibhausgas-Monitoringsystems, ITMS). The idea is fascinating: combining atmospheric measurements with cutting-edge modeling and meteorological transport data to better monitor emissions. It’s not just about science—it’s about providing reliable data to policymakers and industry for critical decisions, from carbondioxide trading to achieving net-zero targets.
One highlight was learning about the Nord Stream pipeline leaks in 2023. Huge methane emissions were modeled using ICON-ART, showing how atmospheric transport modeling can help quantify such events. We also got insights into the complex interplay between traditional emission estimates and new methods like data assimilation.
“I was fascinated to learn how DWD collaborates with the German Ministry for the Environment to integrate traditional emission estimation methods with data assimilation-based approaches.”
KU23: Keeping Tabs on Regional (and Global!) Climate
KU23, led by Stefan Rösner, focuses on climate monitoring for WMO Region VI—from Jordan to Greenland. Despite the name “regional,” it felt anything but small-scale. We saw how they create maps of extreme events, climate bulletins, and even contribute to the European Climate Extremes database.
One of the most exciting moments was sitting in on the October climate briefing. We got a snapshot of how monthly data is analyzed and connected to long-term trends and variability. It was fascinating to see how everything, from extreme weather events to quiet climate patterns, comes together in their reports.
Stefan Roesner also shared his extensive experience as part of the German delegation at the UNFCCC Climate Conferences (COP). At these international events, he collaborates with experts from around the world, sharing insights and feedback on strategies like the German Adaptation Strategy (DAS) and the Adaptation Action Plan (APA). Their goal is to reduce climate vulnerability and enhance adaptability by expanding knowledge, supporting decision-making, and raising awareness. The connections made at events like COP are crucial for refining and implementing these strategies at regional and global levels.
“The structure of research, the connections to ministries, and international collaborations are distinctive to each organization, and this is truly insightful. These collaborations offer significant potential, and I am encouraged by the growing exchange and cooperation.”
Takeaways Beyond the Science
This trip was not just about understanding emissions models or climate monitoring—it was also about seeing how a national weather service operates and fits into the bigger picture of climate action. From shadowing team members to learning about international collaborations, we came away inspired and better equipped for our own journeys.
“This visit has been invaluable in shaping my perspective on future opportunities in weather and climate sciences.”
Looking back, the experience was as much about expanding our perspectives as it was about diving into specific topics. For us Fellows, it’s these kinds of opportunities that make the programme so special—where learning is continuous, connections are strong, and every visit leaves you motivated to take the next step in your career.