Postdoc in Geomagnetic Field Modelling and Inverse Problems

DTU Space would like to invite applications for a Postdoc position starting in July 2021 on the topic of “Geomagnetism and inverse problems”.  We are looking for a candidate with a PhD in geophysics, and experience with geomagnetic field modelling and magnetic satellite data.  At DTU Space you will be part of a dedicated research team working to develop new field modelling, inversion and machine learning tools to probe the inner workings of the Earth.

The position will be based in the Division of Geomagnetism and Geospace whose research involves exploring the Earth and its environment, in particular using magnetic field measurements.  The Division uses satellite magnetic data, for example collected by ESA’s Swarm mission, together with ground observatory measurements, to monitor changes in the Earth’s magnetic field and to probe the underlying physical processes.  This Postdoc position focuses on developing and applying new field modelling techniques, based on novel data processing schemes and the methods of inverse theory, to modern measurements of the geomagnetic field.

Responsibilities and qualifications
The aim of this position is to develop, test, and apply new schemes for studying the geophysical processes using magnetic data. This will involve using the computational tools of potential field modelling and inverse theory, as well as statistical data analysis. The work will involve writing, testing and optimizing software and applying this to satellite and ground-based magnetic field measurements.

  • You will be responsible for developing and applying new methods for inverting geomagnetic data to characterise geophysical processes of interest
  • You will apply the developed scheme to magnetic field data collected by ESA’s Swarm satellites and previous mission
  • You will develop tools to quantitatively assess inversion results
  • You will rigorously test and optimize the software for use on a high-performance computational cluster
  • You will develop and test the software, making it available in the form of open source codes to the scientific community
  • You will contribute to research-based teaching and running student projects in Earth and Space Physics and Engineering Programme
  • You will publish descriptions of the new modelling techniques, and the results of its application to satellite magnetic data, in the international peer reviewed literature
  • You will present your research at international conferences
  • You will communicate effectively with colleagues and be able to work as part of a team to achieve ambitious goals
  • An important part of the work will be to collaborate closely with international partners, including the Univ. Bergen (Norway), Univ. Grenoble (France) and ETH Zurich (Switzerland).

For this position, experience with geomagnetic data and computational solutions to inverse problems, is essential.  In particular

  • You must have experience working with satellite magnetic field data
  • You must be familiar with the tools of linear inverse theory
  • You must be familiar with spherical harmonic geomagnetic field modelling
  • You must have experience working with ground observatory data
  • You must have expertise programming in Python
  • You must have experience in code development and testing
  • You will have an interest in optimization of codes

Furthermore, we are looking someone who has

  • Demonstrated the ability to publish at the highest-level in the international peer-reviewed research literature
  • Presentation skills appropriate for communicating research findings at international conferences
  • Passion to work on complex, challenging topics
  • Ability to thrive on collaboration and teamwork

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment is 3 years.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information
Further information may be obtained from Prof. Chris Finlay, email: cfinlay@space.dtu.dk  or Prof. Nils Olsen email, nio@space.dtu.dk, Division of Geomagnetism and Geospace, DTU Space.

You can read more about DTU Space at www.space.dtu.dk

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 11 June 2021 (Danish time).

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply online”, fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

  • Application (cover letter)
  • CV
  • Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD)
  • List of publications

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

DTU Space uses space as a base for research and technology development in order to learn more about the Universe and Earth, to study climate and environment on Earth and create results and technologies that benefit society.

Apply for this job

Apply no later than 11 June 2021
Apply for the job at DTU Space by completing the following form.

Apply online

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