PhD student position in GNSS reflectometry (GNSS-R)

Information about the division
The PhD position is in the research group for Space Geodesy and Geodynamics at the Department of Earth and Space Sciences. The main interests of the research group are geodynamic phenomena and atmospheric processes and the improvement of the associated measurement techniques. We study e.g. the deformation of the Earth’s crust due to mass redistribution, inter- and intra-plate tectonics, loading effects, variations in earth orientation and rotation, and the spatial and temporal variation of atmospheric water vapour. We address these research topics using a variety of observational techniques and the corresponding theoretical work. Currently we use geodetic VLBI, Global Navigation Satellite Systems, gravimeters, tide gauges, and ground based microwave radiometers. We aim at an intensification of our GNSS-R research, in particular under the aspect of latest technological developments and observational trends. Research may be connect with the establishment of a super-tide gauge at the Onsala site. Our main working places are the Onsala Space Observatory, 40 km south of Gothenburg, and Chalmers University of Technology.

Major responsibilities
The successful candidate shall focus on research in GNSS reflectometry (GNSS-R). Based on the current installations at the Onsala Space Observatory sea-level retrieval algorithms should be studied and implemented for routine operations. Later on, research should be extended concerning GNSS-R based monitoring of the hydro-, bio- and atmosphere. Moreover, it is anticipated that the PhD student will develop a mobile GNSS-R system which can be mounted at different platforms and eventually be flown on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or in combination with other air-borne instruments. Research will include both, hard- and software development as well as interpretation of the results for the benefit of monitoring geophysical signals.
 
Your major responsibilities as PhD student is to pursue your own doctoral studies. You are expected to develop your own scientific concepts and communicate the results of your research verbally and in writing, primarily in English. The position generally also includes teaching on Chalmers' undergraduate level or performing other duties corresponding to 20 per cent of your working hours.

Position summary
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years.

Qualifications
To qualify as a PhD student, you must have a master's level degree corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits in a relevant field. The successful candidate should have a M.Sc. degree in Geodesy, Geophysics, Electronic Engineering, Physics, Engineering Physics or an equivalent education. Courses and/or prior experience in space geodesy, remote sensing, atmospheric sciences, signal processing and statistics are highly relevant and a merit for the position but not a strict requirement. The successful candidate shall have good knowledge in programming and the handling of real-time data-streams. Knowledge in Linux, C/C++, Python and shell scripting would be an asset. Basic knowledge in electronics, signal processing and statistical data analysis is desirable, too. The successful applicant should also be able to communicate efficiently in written and spoken English. She/he shall have a general interest to learn new topics. The successful applicant should be highly motivated for research work, and able to work well both on her/his own and in groups of researchers. Previous research experience shall be well documented in a master's thesis project of high quality. 

Chalmers continuously strives to be an attractive employer. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20150274 and written in English. 

Application deadline: August 30, 2015

For questions, please contact:
Rüdiger Haas, rudiger.haas@chalmers.se
Thomas Hobiger, thomas.hobiger@chalmers.se


*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 
   



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