PhD and Postdoctoral position available at the GeoHydrodynamics and Environment Research group (University of Liège)
Numerical ocean models have contributed significantly to improve our understanding of the dynamics of the ocean. However such models are only approximations, and observations are needed to reduce the uncertainty of these models. Data assimilation allows to combine model results and observations in a statistically optimal way.
The GHER participates in European and Belgian projects aiming to apply data assimilation techniques to complex coupled models (ocean and sea-ice models), assimilation of new data types (surface currents measurements and very high resolution temperature and salinity measurements by gliders, sea surface salinity measurements by satellite) and developing non-linear and non-Gaussian data assimilation techniques.
In the frame of these projects a PhD and a postdoctoral position are opened. The start date of the contract will be determined with the candidate. Successful candidates will have the possibility to visit other European partners active in the field of data assimilation.
The position requires a degree in civil engineering, physics, applied mathematics or related field. The applicant is expected to have some expertise in fluid dynamics, statistics or data processing. She/he should also have experience in programming (using languages such as Fortran, Matlab/Octave, C/C++, Java or Python). Good English skills (oral and written) are also required. The salary of this full time position will depend on the qualifications of the candidate. The contract will first cover a period of one year. Depending on the progress, the contract will be extended for 3 additional years (PhD position) or 1 additional year (post-doc position).
Interested persons are invited to submit an application dossier consisting of an application letter, a curriculum vitae with full contact information, copies of diplomas, their master thesis or PhD thesis (if available) to Prof. Jean-Marie Beckers (jm.beckers@ulg.ac.be) and to Dr. Alexander Barth (a.barth@ulg.ac.be). The review of applications will begin October 1, 2011 and continue until the positions are filled.