The Institute of Space Physics (IRF) in Uppsala is looking for a PhD student in space physics for the research program Space Plasma Physics. The position is at IRF's Uppsala office with premises in the Ångström Laboratory, Uppsala. The PhD student will work in a top-class international research environment with excellent opportunities for collaboration and scientific exchange.
The PhD project will focus on investigating processes in space plasma using data from one or more of our spacecraft. The research involves analysis of in-situ plasma and field measurements, complemented by theoretical modeling and numerical simulations. The goal of the program is to understand the physics behind what is detected with the measurements performed by our space instruments. The measurements contribute to our knowledge of space plasma around the Earth and other planets, and of the corresponding processes in areas where direct measurements are impossible or very difficult. For example, near the Sun and other stars and in fusion plasma.
Our research group works with observations, analyzes data and makes physical models of processes in space plasma (IRF Space Plasma Physics). The group has extensive experience in developing and using scientific instruments to measure plasma density, density fluctuations, electric fields and plasma temperature on spacecraft. These spacecraft include BepiColombo, MMS, Solar Orbiter, Swarm, Cassini, Cluster, Rosetta, JUICE, and Comet Interceptor.
Qualifications
The PhD student will be admitted to the PhD program in Physics with specialization in Space and Plasma Physics at Uppsala University and must meet the university's admission requirements (Uppsala University doctoral education). More information about the PhD program is available at the Department of Physics and Astronomy and at the Faculty of Science and Technology.
What we can offer you
The PhD student is employed for four years at the Institute of Space Physics. The start date is flexible but should be in the fall of 2025 at the latest.
Gender equality, equal opportunities and diversity are fundamental principles in our workplace, which means that we take gender equality aspects into account in daily work and in all decision-making forums.
The application should include a CV and a cover letter (max one page) describing relevant experience. The application should also include contact details of two professional references.
The Institute for Space Physics, IRF, is a government agency that conducts basic research and postgraduate education in space physics, atmospheric physics and space technology. Many of IRF's projects are run as large international projects in collaboration with other research institutes and space organizations. IRF has about a hundred employees and has operations in Kiruna (headquarters), Umeå, Uppsala and Lund. More information about IRF.