ERCA is a course for early career scientists to advance the frontiers of atmospheric science and address pressing environmental challenges.

It is an advanced international multidisciplinary course designed for early-career scientists. Rooted in atmospheric sciences, it also extends to the social aspects of global change. ERCA is open to modellers, field scientists, and lab scientists, providing an excellent opportunity for participants to broaden their scientific horizons.

The course offers an ideal setting for participants to interact with and discuss research with leading experts in their fields. This interaction is facilitated through poster sessions showcasing participants’ current research, hands-on project work, and tutorials. Participants come from Europe and other countries worldwide, representing a diverse range of cultural and scientific backgrounds, fostering the development of a durable international network. 
The language of instruction is English.

Since its inception in 1993 by Professor Claude Boutron, ERCA has organised 31 sessions, attended by about 1,300 participants from 50 countries. ERCA 2025 will mark the 32d session of the course. 

Announcing new ERCA program from 2025

The European Research Course on the Atmosphere (ERCA) offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in cutting-edge research and collaborate with leading experts from across Europe. Scheduled for January 2025, this newly redesigned ERCA school aims to help attendees advance their knowledge, develop research skills, and network with top-tier scientists. With an emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches to pressing atmospheric science and climate science challenges — such as aerosols, clouds, weather, links between the atmosphere and the rest of the Earth system — ERCA 2025 will provide hands-on experience, fostering innovation and equipping participants with the tools to become future leaders in atmospheric research and beyond to serve society.

The new co-direction team includes : Dr. Jennie Thomas, Dr. Hélène Angot, and Dr. Emmanuel Cosme. This team is working towards envisioning a program for the school that honors the long history of the research school (since 1993) and adapts the program for new era of atmospheric and interdisciplinary research for PhD students.

Vision

Prepare the next generation of atmospheric scientists to meet society’s expectations in the multi-disciplinary context of global change.

Mission 

Train early career scientists in the advanced scientific knowledge, tools, and methods needed to make innovative, open, reproducible research, and to deliver science-based decisions.