The Institute for Space Physics (IRF) in Uppsala is seeking a visiting researcher in space physics for the Space Plasma Physics research program to conduct research on the connection between the magnetosphere and the ionosphere. The position is based at the IRF’s Uppsala office, located in the Ångström Laboratory. The visiting researcher will work in a world-class international research environment with excellent opportunities for collaboration and scientific exchange.
This position offers an opportunity to investigate how energy and momentum are transferred through the coupled magnetosphere–ionosphere–ground system. The scientific focus is on the importance of field-parallel currents, plasma density, and temperature for this coupling, as well as on how dynamic processes in the magnetosphere manifest themselves in the ionosphere and on the ground.
The research will combine a broad spectrum of observations, including in situ measurements from Cluster, MMS, and THEMIS; ionospheric observations from Swarm; and ground-based measurements from magnetometers, radar, and all-sky cameras. Magnetospheric and ionospheric models will provide complementary information and help elucidate the physical mechanisms underlying the observations.
Particular emphasis will be placed on field-parallel currents generated by dynamic processes in the magnetosphere, including bursty bulk flows, as well as on tracking their effects from the magnetosphere through the ionosphere to the ground. An important goal is to investigate how these processes contribute to observed ground-based signatures and what they can teach us about magnetosphere–ionosphere coupling relevant to space weather.
Our research group works with observations, data analysis, and the development of 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. IRF also conducts ground-based observations using magnetometers, cameras, and radio and radar instruments (e.g., EISCAT).
Qualifications
The applicant must hold a Ph.D. in space physics or a related field.
Experience analyzing satellite data and/or ground-based observations relevant to magnetosphere–ionosphere coupling is highly desirable. Experience with magnetospheric and ionospheric models, as well as using such models to interpret observations, is a plus.
What We Can Offer You
We can offer you a position with flexible work schedules and up to seven weeks of vacation per year.
What we are most proud to offer you is varied and interesting work, friendly colleagues, and a creative and open work environment where everyone is given responsibility.
Gender equality, equal opportunities, and diversity are fundamental principles in our workplace, which means we take gender equality into account in our daily work and in all decision-making forums.
Terms and Conditions
The visiting researcher will be employed for one year at the Institute of Space Physics. The start date is flexible but should be no later than spring 2027.
The application must include a resume and a cover letter (maximum one page) describing the applicant’s research interests and relevant experience, copies of degree certificates for undergraduate and graduate studies, a description and certificates from previous postdoctoral positions and/or similar research work (if relevant), and reprints or open-access links to a maximum of 4 publications. The application must also include contact information for two professional references.
The Institute of Space Physics (IRF) is a government agency that conducts basic research and doctoral education in space physics, atmospheric physics, and space technology. Many of IRF’s projects are large-scale international collaborations with other research institutes and space agencies. IRF has approximately 100 employees and operates in Kiruna (headquarters), Umeå, Uppsala, and Lund. More information about IRF.