Postdoctoral Researcher in Oceanography/Marine Geophysics

The Department of Geological Sciences is part of the Faculty of Science at Stockholm University.

It consists of approximately 80 teachers, researchers, PhD students, and technical/administrative staff. The department conducts a wide range of fundamental and applied research in marine geology and geophysics, geochemistry, and classical geology.

For more information about us, visit: https://www.su.se/institutionen-for-geologiska-vetenskaper/ (https://www.su.se/institutionen-for-geologiska-vetenskaper/)

Project Description

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher for our interdisciplinary project Tracing How Atlantic Water Impacts North Greenland (THAWING), funded by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation (https://kaw.wallenberg.org/inflode-av-atlantvatten-i-arktis-hotar-gronlands-isar (https://kaw.wallenberg.org/inflode-av-atlantvatten-i-arktis-hotar-gronlands-isar)). This postdoctoral position is one of several within THAWING and is particularly suited for a researcher with expertise in oceanography/marine geophysics.

We are looking for a researcher interested in advanced analysis of observational data, incorporating machine learning techniques. The research focuses on the region north of Greenland and is based on unique datasets from three icebreaker expeditions. You will investigate ocean circulation in this region using CTD, ADCP, and hydroacoustic data, and integrate machine learning to identify stratification in the ocean and to track water masses.

This two-year postdoctoral position, with the possibility of a one-year extension, offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to important climate research using cutting-edge geophysical tools and AI-driven analysis. The THAWING project aims to fill critical knowledge gaps regarding ocean-ice interactions in northern Greenland and involves collaboration with an international team of researchers. By joining this project, you will participate in an interdisciplinary network and contribute to the understanding of how climate change affects one of the few remaining areas in the Arctic with permanent sea ice. There may be opportunities for additional fieldwork within the project.

Responsibilities:

• Data Analysis: Explore the potential of hydroacoustic measurements to map the structure, temperature, salinity, and currents of the water column. This includes the use of machine learning techniques such as pattern recognition. Acoustic data will be analyzed alongside other observational datasets (e.g., CTD data and discrete biogeochemical samples) to investigate the circulation of Atlantic water within glacier fjords and the adjacent Lincoln Sea.
• Collaborative Research: Integrate observational data with modeling to enhance understanding of the ocean's impact on glacier tongue melting through interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Fieldwork: Potential opportunities for additional fieldwork in glacier tongue environments around Svalbard.
• Dissemination: Publish results in leading scientific journals and present them at international conferences.

Eligibility Requirements

A postdoctoral researcher is defined as an employee primarily engaged in research and who has obtained a doctoral degree or has a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a doctoral degree.

Assessment Criteria

The degree must have been awarded no later than when the employment decision is made, but no more than three years before the application deadline. If there are special reasons, the doctoral degree may have been awarded earlier. Special reasons include leave due to illness, parental leave, responsibilities within trade union organizations, service in civil defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or relevant service/assignments in the subject area.

We seek candidates with a strong background in physical oceanography/geophysics/geoscience. Documented experience in applications of machine learning, as well as processing and analysis of large datasets, including CTD and/or hydroacoustic data, is particularly meritorious.

The candidate should be fluent in English and able to work both independently and in a team, as well as have the ability to work towards deadlines, as the project has specific milestones. The candidate should master English fluently, be able to work independently and in a group, and be able to meet deadlines, as the project has specific milestones.

The selection among qualified candidates will be based on their expected ability to complete the project tasks. The following criteria will be used to assess this ability: the applicant's documented knowledge and skills in the subject of their proposed specialization, ability to express their work orally and in writing in English, creativity, initiative, analytical thinking, independence, and ability to collaborate with other researchers. The evaluation will be based on previous education and experience, the quality of previously published research, the ambitions expressed in the motivation letter, the description of the proposed project direction, and any interviews.

About the Position

The position is full-time and is permanent, but for at least two years and a maximum of three years, with the possibility of extension if there are special reasons. Start date by agreement, but no earlier than 2025-08-01.

We Offer

With us, you will experience the dynamics of the interplay between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international setting and receive favorable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good connections to the city.

Stockholm University is committed to being a workplace free from discrimination and providing equal rights and opportunities for all.

Contact

Inquiries about the position can be made to project leader Associate Professor Christian Stranne, christian.stranne@geo.su.se (mailto:christian.stranne@geo.su.se).

Application

You apply for the position via Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the requested documents in the application form. As an applicant, you are responsible for ensuring that the application is complete and that it reaches the university by the application deadline.

Instructions for applicants can be found on the website: https://www.su.se/om-universitetet/jobba-på-su/att-söka-en-anställning (https://www.su.se/om-universitetet/jobba-p%C3%A5-su/att-s%C3%B6ka-en-anst%C3%A4llning).

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