With the successful launch of ESA’s Sentinel-5 Precursor satellite on October 13th, 2017 with theTROPOMI instrument aboard, a wealth of data on the atmospheric composition becomes available including the global distribution of the important anthropogenic greenhouse gas methane. SRON Netherlands Institute for Space Research has the responsibility for the methane data processing algorithm and together with our national and international partners we envisage the scientific exploitation of the unique methane data product.Therefore, the project has versatile objectives.

After analyzing currently processed data, the postdoc will investigate possible improvements of the already existing retrieval approach. To this end, the TROPOMI methane data product will be compared with existing ground-based measurements and observations by other satellite missions. Moreover, the postdoc will analyze the data using global and regional simulations of chemical transport models to identify relevant methane sources, improving our understanding of today’s climate change. 

During the project, the postdoc will be supported by a team of experts on remote sensing and atmospheric modelling through close collaboration with scientists from SRON and our partners. The postdoc will be expected to present their work at international workshops and conferences, building on the international contacts that already exist within the team. 

For this interesting and challenging project, we are looking for a scientist with a PhD degree in atmospheric science, or (astro-) physics with strong communication and programming skills (preferably in Fortran90 and Python). Experience in the field of atmospheric modelling and atmospheric remote sensing would be an asset. Good knowledge of the English language is essential, and the candidate should be capable of working both independently and in a team.

Functional competencies:

• Results oriented
• Analytical
• Can communicate clearly

SRON core competencies:

• Innovative
• Focused on collaboration
• Responsibility
• A global player
• Flexibility

Employment of this full-time position at SRON-Utrecht is by NWO-I (The Netherlands Foundation of Scientific Research Institutes) and will be for a period of 2 years with the possibility of an extension of 2 more years. The salary will be in accordance with the salary scales of NWO-I with a maximum of  € 4.237,- gross per month on a full-time basis (highly depending on education and experience).

 NWO-I has good secondary employment conditions such as:

• An end of year bonus of 8,33% of the gross yearly salary
• 42 days of vacation leave a year on full-time basis
• A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross yearly salary
• An excellent pension scheme
• Options for (additional) personal development

SRON Netherlands Institute for Space Research

SRON's mission is to bring about breakthroughs in international space research. Therefore the institute develops pioneering technology and advanced space instruments, and uses them to pursue fundamental astrophysical research, Earth science and exoplanetary research.

As national expertise institute SRON gives counsel to the Dutch government and coordinates national contributions to international space missions. SRON stimulates the implementation of space science in our society.