The IBS Center for Climate Physics (ICCP) was established in January, 2017 as the first Earth Science center within the Institute for Basic Science (IBS). ICCP seeks to expand the frontiers of earth system science by conducting cutting edge research into climate dynamics and utilizing high-performance computer simulations, with the goal of improving decadal earth system forecasts and longterm projections. Once fully staffed, ICCP will comprise 70 scientists, organized into five multidisciplinary research groups. Under the direction of Prof. Axel Timmermann, the groups will research coupled climate processes across the hydrosphere, cryosphere, atmosphere, biosphere, and anthroposphere.