Luleå University of Technology experiences rapid growth with world-leading expertise within several research domains. We shape the future through innovative education and groundbreaking research results and drawing on our location in the Arctic region, we create global societal benefit. Our scientific and artistic research and education are carried out in close collaboration with international, national and regional companies, public actors and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has an annual turnover of SEK 1.9 billion. Today, we have 1,815 staff and 19,155 students.
In the coming years, multi-billion investments will be made in large projects in Northern Sweden to create a fossil-free society both nationally and globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these cutting-edge research projects and in the societal transformation that they entail. We offer a broad range of courses and study programmes to match the skills in demand. We hope that you will help us to build the sustainable companies and societies of the future.
We are recruiting a PhD student for a research project on geophysical modelling related to forecasting of space weather events, specifically Geomagnetically induced currents (GIC). Take the opportunity to study for a PhD in interdisciplinary, dynamic, international research environment in close collaboration with industry and leading universities worldwide.
Subject description
Exploration geophysics is a topic based on physical laws and practices, which combined with geological information can be used in a variety of applications. Geophysical research at the Division of Geosciences and Environmental Engineering includes both basic and applied research in exploration, environmental and engineering applications.
Project description
You will take part in the project which aim to establish a prototype service for monitoring and forecasting geoelectric fields that drive GIC in Europe. The service will help operators to protect critical ground infrastructure vulnerable to damage caused by GIC. The service will display geographic hazard maps of near real-time and historical geoelectric fields, continuously running short-term (lead time 15-70 minutes) and long-term (lead time 2-4 days) forecasts, and a storm time mid-term (lead time 2-12 hours) forecast. The geoelectric field will be derived from full three-dimensional (3D) induction modelling of the conducting ground as driven by realistic external geomagnetic variations. The short-term forecast will rely on machine learning modeling of geomagnetic variations from solar wind data sampled at the Lagrange point L1. The long-term forecast will estimate the activity expected due to solar wind co-rotating interaction regions (CIRs) and high-speed streams. You will be responsible for implementing 3D induction modelling of the conducting ground as driven by realistic external geomagnetic variations.
Duties
As a PhD student you are expected to perform both field work and theoretical work within your research studies as well as communicate your results at national and international conferences and in scientific journals. Most of your working time will be devoted to your own research studies. You will work primarily with geophysical (magnetotelluric) data. 3D geophysical data modelling/inversion is a key focus of this PhD. You will work on development and extending our MR3Dmod modelling/inversion framework.
In addition, you will have the opportunity to try the teacher role. As a researcher, you work as a neutral party in many contexts, which provides a great opportunity to be involved in challenging development projects.
Qualifications
You must have a M.Sc or equivalent degree in geophysics, mathematics, physics, geology or other relevant subject. Good understanding of theory and numerical methods used in modelling and inversion is required. Experience in software development (Python in particular) and management of large data sets is important. You are expected to work in a team and are open to collaborate with colleagues and external partners. Fluent written and spoken English is required.
For further information about a specific research subject see General curricula for the Board of the faculty of science and technology.
Further information
Employment as a PhD student is limited to 4 years, teaching and other department duties may be added with max 20%. The position will start in January 2023.
For further information about the position, please contact: Maxim Smirnov, Assoc. Professor in Exploration Geophysics +46 920 49 3413 maxim.smirnov@ltu.se or Thorkild Maack Rasmussen, Professor in Exploration Geophysics, +46 920-49 3413, thorkild.maack.rasmussen@ltu.se
Union representatives: SACO-S Kjell Johansson, 0920-49 1529 kjell.johansson@ltu.se, OFR-S Lars Frisk, 0920-49 1792 lars.frisk@ltu.se
In case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.
Application
We prefer that you apply for this position by clicking on the apply button below. The application should include a CV, personal letter and copies of verified diplomas from high school and universities. Mark your application with the reference number below. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish.
Reference number:1784-2022
Closing date for applications: September 30, 2022
URL to this pagehttps://www.ltu.se/ltu/Lediga-jobb?l=en&rmpage=job&rmjob=5764&rmlang=UK