Ph.D. position in Arctic Geophysics (Space Physics, Continuum emission in the auroral ionosphere)

About the position

The position is a full-time four-year PhD student position. The four-year contract includes a year of required duties. Alternatively, the candidate may choose a three-year position which excludes these duties. Applications are also open to this year's master's candidates, with the requirement that the master's degree must be completed by July 1st, 2025. The desired start date is during August, and no later than September 1st.

The project Understanding the role of continuum emission in the auroral ionosphere aims to advance our understanding of the newly discovered broadband auroral emission, called continuum emission. Unlike the most commonly seen green and red light where only a very narrow spectral band is enhanced, the continuum emission enhancement includes the whole visible wavelength range. It looks white/grey/orange in the full-color images (similar to the STEVE arc in the sub-auroral region), and simultaneous radar and interferometer measurements have shown strong thermosphere heating of both plasma and neutrals associated with it. This project will expand our knowledge by searching and analyzing more optical, radar and satellite observations of these high-latitude continuum emission events to characterize the ionospheric conditions and thermosphere heating required to produce the broadband emission, as well as modelling
the auroral emissions based on the observed properties of precipitating particle input to see, which atmospheric species are most likely to be responsible for the observed emission.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Applicants must hold a master’s degree in a field relevant for the position or the degree must be completed by July 1st, 2025
• Admission to the doctoral program at UiT The Arctic University of Norway is a condition of the employment
• Good knowledge of the auroral ionosphere / neutral thermosphere, good data analysis and programming skills and strong motivation in solving scientific puzzles
• Good problem solving skills, and overall positive and flexible attitude
• Applicants must be able to work independently and in a structured manner, yet function well in a team
• Proficient in both written and oral English
• Driver’s license class B (valid for Svalbard)

Advantageous knowledge and skills

• Previous modelling experience and experience in spectroscopy and image & spectral analysis
• Experience in living and working in polar or alpine regions
• Experience in teaching

Motivation and personal suitability will be emphasized.

We offer

We offer

UNIS offers a challenging and varied job in an exciting, pleasant, and international environment. As an employee, you will be a member of the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund (SPK), which provides one of the best pension schemes on the market. We also offer excellent insurance schemes, coverage of travel and relocation expenses upon starting the position, and staff housing in accordance with current regulations.

The position is classified under the job code “Stipendiat” (code 1017). In addition to the base salary, a Svalbard allowance of NOK 42.840 per annum is provided. A 2 % contribution to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund is deducted from the salary. The income tax rate in Svalbard is currently 8 %, and a national insurance contribution of 7.7 % is also deducted.

Application

Inquiries about this position, may be directed to:

Professor Noora Partamies, email: noora.partamies@unis.no

Researcher Katie Herlingshaw, email: katieh@unis.no

Application deadline 25.04.2025.

Please include the following documents to the online application form:

• Motivational letter (max. 1 page) to state applicants scientific and personal interest in pursuing a Ph.D. on the announced topic and at UNIS
• Full academic CV
• Transcripts and diplomas showing the completion of bachelor’s and master’s degrees, alternatively an official confirmation that the master’s degree will be completed by 1st July, 2025
• Contact information for two references, one of which must be your master's supervisor

It is possible to request that your name/application be exempt from public disclosure in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act (Offentlighetsloven) § 25. The request must be justified. Please note that if the request is not granted, the applicant will be contacted and given the opportunity to withdraw the application.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

One of UNIS’ values is inclusion. We are committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment in the high Arctic. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of nationality, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, or other characteristics. Applications from women are encouraged.

Selection and appointment
A committee appointed by the Managing director of UNIS will evaluate the qualifications of the applicants and invite the highest ranked person(s) for an interview. The appointment will be made by the Director of UNIS based on the recommendation from the committee.