COS-OCS is an ERC Advanced project that will integrate measurements and modeling of atmospheric Carbonyl Sulfide (COS). COS is the most abundant sulfur compound in our atmosphere. COS is produced in tropical oceans and taken up by vegetation, but large uncertainties remain. COS-OCS addresses these uncertainties. The project involves collaboration between several PhD students and scientists at three universities in the Netherlands.

Within COS-OCS, we are looking for an outstanding candidate for COS isotope measurements. Such measurements have never been performed, thus the project will be both very challenging and very rewarding. The work will start with setting up a measurement system for S and possibly C isotopes in COS, based on Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry. Once this measurement system is realized, it will be used for analyzing air samples for the first large scale isotopic characterization of the atmospheric COS and of its main sources and sinks. The work will consist of lab experiments and measurements, and the candidate should be open for participation in field campaigns for sampling.

The ideal candidate will have a good understanding of physical phenomena, good mathematical and logical thinking and some experimental skills. Experience with trace gas or isotope measurements is useful but not strictly necessary. More important are personal qualities like an open mind, curiosity, creative thinking, ability to cooperate and motivation.

 

The position is meant for a PhD candidate, but exceptional candidates at Postdoc level are also considered.

Starting date

As soon as possible, latest on 1 September 2018.

The candidate is offered a full-time position for four years, with an evaluation after one year. The gross salary - depending on previous qualifications and experience  - ranges between €2,222 and €2,840 (P-scale of the Collective Labour Agreement Dutch Universities) per month for a full-time employment. Salaries are supplemented with a holiday bonus of 8 % and a year-end bonus of 8.3 % per year. We offer a pension scheme, (partly paid) parental leave, collective insurance schemes and flexible employment conditions (multiple choice model). More information is available at: working at Utrecht University.

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The Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research Utrecht (IMAU) is an interfaculty Research Institute that focuses on the fundamental aspects of the climate system. Research is organized in five main themes: atmospheric physics and chemistry, atmospheric dynamics and boundary layer meteorology, ice and climate, ocean circulation and climate and coastal and shelf sea dynamics. The IMAU includes 15 Faculty Members, 15 Postdocs and 25 PhD students. The Graduate Programme is organized in the Buys Ballot Research School.