PhD student position in Sub-millimetre observations of clouds

Join us to explore the first data from two entirely new sets of satellite sensors!
In 2024-25 the first satellite-based instruments for weather and climate operating in the sub-millimetre wavelength region will be launched. You will take part in the final pre-launch preparations and analyse the first data from the satellites. The position allows you to combine interests in climate, physics, and data.

Information about the division
You will be part of the division of Geoscience and Remote Sensing. The division has several expertise areas in remote sensing. One of these is the utilisation of sub-millimetre observations for atmospheric research. In a few years, the research field will enter a new era by the launch of the Ice Cloud Imager (ICI) and the Arctic Weather Satellite (AWS). We are deeply involved in the preparations for both these missions. The aim of ICI is to significantly improve the global observation capability of clouds consisting of ice particles. AWS is a path-finder mission for a constellation of satellites. Both weather forecasting and climate studies will benefit from the information provided by these sensors.

Major responsibilities
Your research area will be to retrieve ice cloud properties from radiances measured by ICI and AWS. We have already developed algorithms for this purpose, for example, the one to be run operationally for ICI. We are also planning for in-house retrievals using machine learning to generate data suitable for the verification of climate models. Before the launch, your task will be to improve and produce the "retrieval databases" needed for these algorithms and perform end-to-end simulations of the retrievals for complete testing of the algorithms. After the launch of the sensors, you will have a crucial role in the initial analysis and application of the data.

You will be using state-of-the-art software and datasets developed inside the division for the work. In the process, you will acquire a unique competence inside atmospheric radiative transfer and satellite-based observations of cloud properties.

Qualifications
To qualify as a PhD student, you must have a Master's level degree in engineering physics, electrical engineering, engineering mathematics, atmospheric sciences, or related disciplines, corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits

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

Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20220081 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as pdf-files, as below:

CV: (Please name the document: CV, Family name, Ref. number)
• CV
• Other, for example previous employments or leadership qualifications and positions of trust.
• Two references that we can contact.

Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, Ref. number)
1-3 pages where you:
• Introduce yourself
• Describe your previous experience of relevance for the position (e.g. education, thesis work and, if applicable, any other research activities)
• Describe your future goals and future research focus

Other documents:
• Copies of bachelor and/or master’s thesis.
• Attested copies and transcripts of completed education, grades and other certificates, e.g. TOEFL test results.

The files may be compressed (zipped).

Application deadline: 15 March, 2022

For questions, please contact:
Professor Patrick Eriksson, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Department of Space, Earth
and Environment
E-mail: patrick.eriksson@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. *** 
   



Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!