The PhD project offered aims at investigating the systematic exploitation of the phase inconsistencies present in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) interferometric time series. We aim at systematically detecting and classifying these inconsistencies, exploiting them for the detection of shallow sub-surface features in ice-covered areas, and for the estimation of soil-moisture changes in semi-arid regions.
In SAR interferometry, the interferometric phase is usually interpreted geometrically, as a measure of the difference, between acquisitions, of the distance from a resolution cell to the radar. This is routinely exploited to measure Earth’s surface deformation and topography. A fundamental assumption is that the interferometric phase is consistent: given three observations, there are only two independent interferometric phases.
Recently, we have shown that systematic inconsistencies can appear whenever there are multiple collections of scatterers within a resolution cell with different interferometric behaviour. A systematic analysis of inconsistencies requires at least triplets of SAR acquisitions over a short temporal span. This requirement is satisfied, for the first time, by the Sentinel-1 mission.
The study will be data-driven, with an emphasis on the processing of large data sets using high-performance computing platforms and the use of machine learning approaches.
     

We are looking for an enthusiastic candidate, motivated to work in a multidisciplinary and multinational environment. The candidate should have an MSc in physics, mathematics, or engineering, with a solid background and interest in signal processing, good programming skills in Python or a similar high-level programming language, and some fundamental understanding of electromagnetic wave theory. Some background in remote sensing and, in particular SAR interferometry, or machine learning would be appreciated.
Candidates should be curious, with cross-disciplinary interests, and critical thinkers.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

The TU Delft offers an attractive, customisable compensation and benefits package, including a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers day care, before- and after-school care and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and a Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. Please visit www.tudelft.nl/phd for more information.

For more information about this position, please contact Paco Lopez Dekker, phone: +31 (0)15-2782574, e-mail: F.LopezDekker@tudelft.nl. To apply, please e-mail a detailed CV, proof of English language proficiency, the abstract of your MSc thesis (one page), and a letter of application in a single PDF file entitled “CiTG17.28_Lastname.pdf”. Please e-mail your application by 2 March 2018 to Dian Verbunt, Recruitment-CiTG@tudelft.nl.
When applying for this position, please refer to vacancy number CITG18-02.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (the TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. The TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At the TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. The TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

http://www.tudelft.nl

Faculty Civil Engineering and Geosciences

The Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences of Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) provides leading international research and education, with innovation and sustainability as central themes. Research and education are closely interwoven and address societal challenges. The Faculty consists of the departments of Transport and Planning, Structural Engineering, Geoscience and Engineering, Water Management, Hydraulic Engineering, and Geoscience and Remote Sensing.

The Department of Geoscience and Remote Sensing conducts a research programme in the disciplines of geodesy and remote sensing, natural geophysics, and climate and atmospheric sciences. It emphasises the interrelation between new observational techniques and applications in engineering and geosciences, including the development of ground-based, airborne, and space-borne methods and models. The department has an internationally leading role in research related to Earth-oriented space research, satellite geodesy, gravity field modelling, natural hazards, geodynamics and climate studies.

https://www.tudelft.nl/en/ceg/