Postdoc in advanced geospatial data science for Ice Sheet applications - DTU Space

Are you passionate about uncovering insights into the fast-changing ice sheets from a wide range of Earth Observation data? The Department of Geodesy and Earth Observation seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to strengthen and expand our in-house capabilities in data cubes and machine learning, specifically tailored to ice sheet research. This role focuses on developing and applying data cubes to manage and analyse large, multi-dimensional geospatial datasets, enabling us to track and monitor ice sheet dynamics with unprecedented precision. By leveraging machine learning techniques, the postdoc will work to identify complex patterns, predict future changes, and model the intricate behaviours of ice sheets. These advancements are critical for understanding ice sheet contributions to sea-level rise, their responses to climate variability, and broader environmental impacts. We are looking for a candidate with strong technical expertise, who is enthusiastic about pushing the boundaries of geospatial data science to address pressing climate challenges.

Earth observations data volumes continue growing, and we need sophisticated data handling techniques to unlock the valuable information. In connection with two new projects at the Cryosphere research group, EU-ICELink and ESA Digital Twin Component Ice Sheets, we wish to strengthen our data processing capabilities to build data cubes of Earth Observation data to support the data uptake by the modelling community. Furthermore, we want to develop machine learning models further to enhance our current capabilities of estimating ice sheet mass balance from observational records. We will develop this concept within the framework of digital twins for ice sheets, focusing on process understanding and exploring what-if scenarios throughout the project. 

Responsibilities and qualifications
You will be responsible for the day-to-day developments of EO methodology within the two projects, attend project meetings and disseminate findings in reports and scientific journals. 

You must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent) in physics, mathematics or data science as a formal qualification. Additionally, the following qualifications will be preferable:

• Proven experience in designing and implementing efficient algorithms, with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage and process large datasets effectively.
• Experience with geospatial data science. 
• Published in field-acknowledged impact journals. 

We see you at the same time as an independent and collaborative nature. Independent when you work with data and algorithms, collaborative when you work in a group of scientists all striving to gain a better understanding of the cryosphere, and collaborative scientific endeavors are the key to our success, and you need to interact with both national and international project partners and stakeholders.   

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility. 

Salary and terms of employment 
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment is 2 years. 

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information 
Further information may be obtained from Senior Scientist Sebatian B. Simonsen, +45 20993774, ssim@dtu.dk or Professor Louise Sandberg Sorensen, slss@dtu.dk 

You can read more about DTU Space at https://www.space.dtu.dk/english/research-divisions/geodesy-and-earth-observation 

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure 

Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 15 January 2025 (23:59 Danish time). 

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications 

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

DTU Space are Denmark's largest space science research institute and a reputable international institution. From space we explore the Earth and the universe. Our history goes back to the 1960s. With space as the starting point we conduct research, develop new technology, educate engineers and scientists, and provide advice for the benefit of people and society.

The Postdoc will be based in the Cryosphere research group within DTU Space’s Geodesy and Earth Observation division, where we focus on tracking cryosphere changes through Earth observation, airborne, and in-situ data. We contribute to national and international projects, including the Sentinel-3 MPC, Greenland’s PROMICE program, the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service, and ESA’s Greenland Ice Sheet Climate Change Initiative. Our work involves satellite data applications to map changes in ice sheet elevation, mass, and thickness. As a collaborative, dynamic team, we prioritize both professional growth and work-life balance.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.