Postdoc position in Space Physics at Umeå University, Sweden (2015)

The Department of Physics, Umeå University, invites applicants for a postdoctoral position. The project will focus on numerical investigations of wave-particle interactions in the environment of comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko together with the analysis of observed data from the current Rosetta mission.

Project description : We will investigate how dust affect waves, how wave energy is redistributed among the particles, and how plasma and dust can be affected in the large scale environment of the comet. Numerical simulations are central for the project, and the postdoc will further develop existing codes and/or write new ones. PIC (Particle-In-Cell) simulations can for example be used to study wave growth and particle energization in small scale regions. 3D hybrid simulations of the comet’s interaction with the solar wind can be used together with test particle runs of ions and dust to study larger regions. The project will be conducted in close collaboration with scientists from the Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy, from the University of Helsinki, Finland, and from the Rosetta teams. More information on our current research can be found at: http://www.physics.umu.se/english/research/space-physics

This is a full-time (100 %) position for two years. Starting date: May 2016 or upon agreement. Last day to apply is 2016-02-01.

Qualifications / Requirements :

• Highly motivated and responsible candidate who is passionate for developing as an individual scientist as well as a space physics research team member.
• To qualify for the position, you should have a PhD degree in a relevant area and you should have completed your PhD degree a maximum of three years before the end of the application period unless certain circumstances exist.
• Previous experience in numerical simulations is required and experience from working with spacecraft data is a merit.
• Good skills in programming as well as in written and spoken English are required.
• You are expected to have good social skills and good ability to work independently, as well as in collaboration with others. In addition, experience from undergraduate teaching is an extra merit.

Application Procedure: 

The application should contain:

1. A cover letter summarizing your qualifications, your scientific interests, and your motives for applying

2. A curriculum vitae (CV)

3. A statement of previous research achievements, teaching merits, and the level of experience in the area mentioned in the job description above

4. A publication list,

5. A description of how you would approach the project described above and a suggestion of a tentative research plan that fits your expertise

6. Names and contact information of three references.

7. Copies of relevant degree certificates and publications

The application is to be submitted in our e-recruitment system. Your complete application, marked with reference number AN 2.2.1-1294-15 must be received February 1, 2016 at the latest.

Information
For further information, contact Maria Hamrin, phone +46 90 786 6036, maria.hamrin@space.umu.se.

 Application deadline is 2016-02-01.