Do you want to work with three-dimensional inverse modeling and time series processing of electromagnetic data, with the support of competent and pleasant colleagues in an international environment? Do you want an employer that invests in sustainable employment and offers safe, favorable working conditions? Welcome to apply for employment as a postdoctoral fellow at Uppsala University.
The Department of Earth Sciences is Sweden’s largest and most diverse department of its kind with a unique breadth and approximately 280 employees. Our activities are interdisciplinary and combine natural sciences and technology with social sciences. We have research programs in air, water and landscape science; geophysics; natural resources and sustainable development; mineralogy, petrology and tectonics; paleobiology and wind energy. By studying the history of the Earth, we understand how the planet has developed and how our pursuit of sustainable development can benefit from this knowledge. Visit the Department of Earth Sciences for more information.
The Electromagnetic (EM) Geophysics Group is participating in an ERA-MIN3 project related to new exploration techniques for mineral resources. The focus areas are new three-dimensional (3D) imaging methods for EM and seismic methods as well as 3D geomodeling. In recent years, the group has carried out extensive magnetotelluric (MT) campaigns in the Swedish Caledonides, and together with SGU, electromagnetic data in the VLF and LF bands have been collected with drones over various mineral deposits and geotechnical target structures.
The advertised postdoctoral position is located within the Geophysics program at the Department of Earth Sciences. The project aims at 3D inverse modeling and time series processing of the EM data collected in the ERA-MIN3 project. 3D inversion of MT data collected in the Swedish Caledonides and processing and inversion of airborne VLF and LF data are other possible goals.
Job duties
The postdoc will apply existing 3D and 2D inversion codes to data obtained from controlled source EM (CSEM) and radio magnetotelluric (RMT) data collected as part of the ERA-MIN3 project. Project participants from Finland, France and Poland have performed 3D seismic imaging, 3D geoelectrical inversion and 3D geomodelling. The reflection seismic images and logging data from a 1.7 km deep borehole will be used to further constrain the models derived from the CSEM and RMT data. This task may involve further development of the existing 3D inversion code to enable the inclusion of such prior information. The candidate will collaborate with the project partners.
In addition, the postdoc can work with MT data collected in the Swedish Caledonides or with existing drone-borne VLF and LF data. The former option involves completing the time series processing of MT data, inverting the resulting transfer functions for 3D models and interpreting these geologically. This may include the possibility of collecting additional MT data. The latter option may involve further developing an existing code for single-frequency VLF and LF data to model data with multiple frequencies.
The successful candidate will be given the opportunity to further develop skills in EM field theory, time series analysis, numerical methods such as finite element, numerical linear algebra and gradient-based inversion techniques, parallel programming, acquisition and processing of EM field data, inclusion of seismic data and borehole information in electromagnetic inversion models and interpretation of multidimensional resistivity models inverted from EM data. Supervision of PhD, MSc and BSc students as well as teaching at undergraduate and graduate levels may also be included in the duties.
Qualification requirements
Doctoral degree in geophysics or a foreign degree that is considered equivalent to a doctorate in geophysics. The degree must be completed no later than the time the employment decision is made. Those who have completed their degree no more than three years ago should be considered. When calculating the three-year time frame, the starting point is the last date of application. If there are special reasons, such a degree may have been completed earlier. Special reasons refer to leave due to illness, parental leave, positions of trust within trade unions, etc.
Solid knowledge and skills in electromagnetic geophysics, general geophysics and mathematics as well as sufficient knowledge of programming languages (e.g. modern FORTRAN, C++ or MATLAB) are required. The applicant needs to have good knowledge of the English language and sufficient writing and communication skills. In addition, the applicant must have a valid driving license (class B or higher).
Desirable/meritorious in other respects
Experience with parallel calculations is an advantage. Knowledge of geological and tectonic processes will be considered a particular advantage.
In your application, please attach certificates of results and diplomas for bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees or other similar documents regarding your studies.
About the employment
The employment is limited to two years according to the central collective agreement. The scope is full-time. Entry 2025-05-01 or as agreed. Location: Uppsala
Information about the position can be obtained from: Thomas Kalscheuer, tel. 018 471 3819, thomas.kalscheuer@geo.uu.se Please submit your application no later than March 7, 2025 , UFV-PA 2025/217.
