Post doc in space physics

Postdoctoral position in space physics: magnetic reconnection

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position to study magnetic reconnection in space and, in particular, in the Earth's magnetosphere based on data from the multi-spacecraft missions Cluster (ESA, launched 2000) and MMS (NASA, launch 2015). Magnetic reconnection is an important process in most astrophysical plasma environments leading to efficient, fast and often explosive-like conversion of magnetic energy into kinetic energy of plasma particles and rapid reconfiguration of magnetic topology. The Space Plasma Physics Research Programme at the Swedish Institute of Space Physics (IRF) has PI responsibility for the Electric Field and Wave (EFW) instrument on Cluster. We work with data from all instruments on Cluster. We have also contributed to the electric field Spin-plane Double Probes (SDP), part of the FIELDS instrument on MMS. We will work with data from several instruments on these spacecraft.

The successful candidate will be involved in international collaboration. Analysis of data is an important part of the work and experience in combining advanced data analysis with theoretical modelling is an advantage. Interest and experience in development of instrumental techniques and methods will likewise be positively valued, as will experience in coordination of scientific activities.

Candidates should have completed a PhD during 2012 or later. However, if the candidate has an older degree and wants to refer to special circumstances, such as parental leave, this should be clearly stated. Candidates planning to obtain their PhD degree no later than June 2015 can also apply. The candidate should not currently be an active researcher at IRF in Uppsala or the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Uppsala University, Sweden.

The position is available at the Uppsala office of IRF, located at the Ångström Laboratory in Uppsala, Sweden, from the second half of 2015 for 2 years. Applications should include a CV, a short letter stating the applicant?s research interests and relevant experience, copies of undergraduate and PhD degree certificates (or a letter from the supervisor stating when the PhD degree is expected), description and proof of previous postdoctoral positions and/or similar relevant research work (if available), names and contact information for two professional references and reprints of not more than 4 selected publications.

Closing date for applications is 12 April 2015.

For further information please contact:
Dr. Andris Vaivads, e-mail: andris.vaivads@irfu.se
Prof. Mats André, e-mail: mats.andre@irfu.se
Trade union representative:
Thomas Leyser, SACO-S, e-mail: thomas.leyser@irfu.se

Applications should be sent, preferably by email, to: registrator@irf.se
or by post to:
Swedish Institute of Space Physics,
Registrar,
Box 812,
SE-981 28 Kiruna, Sweden
Reference number: 2.2.1-32/15

If your application is sent by e-mail you should get a confirmation that we have received it. If you do not get the confirmation within three days, please contact the
registrar: +46 980-790 00.