Weiyu Zhang
- Position: Research Fellow
- Email: W.Zhang7@leeds.ac.uk
Profile
I’m a postdoctoral researcher working on MAGICA – Modelling Aviation Global climate Impacts from Contrails and Aerosols since January 2026. My research focuses on atmospheric and climate modelling, with particular emphasis on contrail cirrus and the cloud microphysical and radiation processes that control their radiative effects and uncertainty. Before starting my postdoc, I worked part-time as a research assistant for MAGICA in 2025.
I completed my PhD in 2025 at the University of Leeds, with a thesis entitled ‘Contrail cirrus climate modelling: uncertainty, microphysical processes and mitigation pathways’. My research investigates uncertainties in contrail cirrus radiative effects, the role of microphysical processes in controlling contrail evolution, and how much alternative fuels may reduce contrail climate impacts. I also have an academic background in remote sensing, through my master’s and undergraduate studies.
Qualifications
- PhD, Atmospheric science, University of Leeds
- MSc, Remote sensing, Beijing Normal University, China
- BEng, Remote sensing, Shandong University of Science and Technology, China