Post-doctoral position (dnr: 2.2.1 - 87/26)
Description
Current research in solar physics and space weather address questions related to the release of energy causing solar storms. Solar storms appear in regions of the Sun with strong and complex magnetic fields. To understand the triggering of solar storms the short term (from days down to minutes) temporal evolution of the solar magnetic fields must be studied. A solar storm is manifested by solar flares, solar energetic protons, and coronal mass ejections (CME) with one or several of the phenomena occurring during the storm. Each phenomenon is linked to adverse effects on different domains of human technology. Understanding and forecasting solar storms are thus of great importance for society.
Job description
In this work time series of magnetic fields in solar active regions will be analysed, primarily using Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) data. Based on vector magnetograms and related magnetic features, timeseries datasets will be prepared and machine learning (ML) models will be developed for solar flare forecasting. The primary goals are to explore and understand flare triggering magnetic features, and to develop models that will be useful for solar flare forecasting which can be implemented to support space weather services.
The postdoctoral position will be part of IRF’s Solar Terrestrial and Atmospheric Research (STAR) programme, which includes scientists, software developers, and engineers from IRF’s different offices. IRF is a member of the International Space Environment Service and is responsible for Regional Warning Centre Sweden. IRF also takes part in ESA’s Space Safety Programme. The position will be part of international collaborations through existing networks but will also include the development of new research collaborations.
Qualifications
We expect that you have relevant knowledge of plasma physics, solar-terrestrial physics, and space weather. Further, knowledge in one or several fields of statistical data analysis, machine learning, image analysis, and time series analysis is desirable.
Candidates must have a PhD degree in physics, mathematics, or similar. We will primarily consider candidates with a degree obtained within the last three years. If you have an older degree and wants to refer to special circumstances, such as parental leave, this should be clearly stated in your application. The candidate should not currently be an active postdoctoral researcher at the Swedish Institute of Space Physics.
What we offer
We offer a workplace with flexible working hours, up to seven weeks of vacation per year, comprehensive healthcare including wellness programs and health benefits.
Equality, equal opportunity, and diversity are fundamental principles in our workplace. We work in an equality-integrated manner, meaning that gender and diversity aspects are considered in daily work and all decision-making processes.
Terms
The position, placed in Lund, is for 3 years. The start date can be as per agreement. Salaries are negotiated individually.
Applications should include a CV with a publication list, a personal cover letter outlining relevant experience, and the contact information of two professional references.