The Geodesy group is looking for a PhD candidate to work on advancing geodetic techniques, particularly satellite InSAR technology, in order to improve estimates of land subsidence and upheave. The goal of the project is to develop optimal combinations of terrestrial and space-geodetic techniques, to obtain up-to-date, high-detail, wide-area, and accurate empirical information about the actual movements of the surface over delta areas, to be attributed to various processes in the subsurface. New InSAR processing techniques need to be developed, addressing geophysical constraints, ambiguity resolution, decorrelation, and the disentanglement of the various signal components. The work is part of a team effort, designing a new data processing approach that is able to integrate existing stand-alone approaches, while embracing new opportunities enabled by high-performance computing and artificial intelligence. The PhD candidate will join the TUDelft Graduate School to increase disciplinary competences and be trained in transferable and research skills. The position is part of an integrated research program that addresses the issue of land subsidence in the in a holistic way, whereby insights about physical-chemical-biological system functioning, development, evaluation and implementation of measures as well as an assessment of their governance and legal implications co-evolve. The prgram consists of 4 scientific work packages (wp) and this position is integratied in WP1.1.

We are looking for a candidate with a MSc in geodesy, remote sensing, earth sciences, mathematics, physics, computer science or alike. The candidate should preferably have experience with observation theory and signal processing, a scientific mindset, team spirit and a clear motivation to go beyond the initial ideas and goals. Knowledge about InSAR and satellite technology will be beneficial but is not requisited. As our group is truly international, the candidate should be proficient in English, both spoken and written, and demonstrate excellent communication and writing skills.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The minimum salary mentioned is the salary in your first year. The salary mentioned as the maximum will be your salary in your fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. 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.

Technische Universiteit Delft

Delft University of Technology (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. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

Faculty Civil Engineering and Geosciences

The position is within the framework of the joint NWA-ORC-programme Living on Soft Soils: Subisidence & Society project of Delft University of Technology, Wageningen University and Research, Deltares, TNO, Wageningen Environmental Research and Utrecht University. The Geology PhD position is located within the department of Geoscience and Remote Sensing (GRS) within the Geodesy group In Delft. The group is working on science goals related to estimating (time-variable) geometry from remote sensing, navigation and positioning, gravimetry, and geodesy at large. Within the department GRS we seek to advance the understanding of dynamic processes on—and human interaction with—Earth, with a focus on geodesy and atmospheric sciences. The approach is based on the development of observation technology as well as the modelling of processes. Our ambition is to create an interdisciplinary research environment in which scientific staff and students explore, learn, and teach. GRS (with about 110 staff members of which 25 faculty staff) conducts a research programme in the disciplines of geodesy, remote sensing, data science, earth-oriented space research, and climate and atmospheric sciences. It focuses on the interrelation between new observational techniques and applications in engineering and geosciences, including the development of space-borne,  airborne, and ground-based methods and models. The department has an internationally leading role in research related to 2D and 3D surveying, geodesy, satellite remote sensing, natural hazards, geodynamics and climate studies. Please check www.tudelft.nl/ceg/grs.

GRS is one of the 7 departments within the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences (CEG) The Faculty is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology and delta technology. The research covers global social issues and is closely connected to education as well as the work of a wide range of knowledge institutions. CEG is convinced that Open Science helps to realise these goals and supports its scientists in integrating Open Science in their research practice. Please check www.tudelft.nl/ceg for more information.