Are you interested in Earth Observation using Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), data science (machine learning), and in improving our understanding of weather and climate? Job description In the last couple of years we have demonstrated that high-resolution radar imagery generated by Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites can be used to characterize the exchange between the upper ocean and the lower atmosphere. In particular, we have illustrated the possibility of estimating heat fluxes and inferring the temperature difference between the ocean and the atmosphere, for which no systematic alternative monitoring exists, and which are of high importance to improve weather and climate modeling.
The key to retrieving these variables from SAR is atmospheric turbulence, which is directly associated with these variables, and results in unique surface wind signatures directly visible in the radar images. However, it is only through the use of machine learning techniques and massive data sets that we can train algorithms to exploit this information.
In the FluxSAR project we want to go beyond the demonstration of capabilities to generate a properly validated product with a good understanding of the estimation uncertainties and the applicability of the method. Moreover, we want to show how these FluxSAR products can be exploited, for example through their assimilation in numerical weather models, or used directly in illustrative case studies.
By joining the FluxSAR team you will work alongside experts in oceanography, atmosphere and remote sensing with ample opportunity for collaborations across institutes. Therefore, we anticipate this project to provide a stimulating basis for a successful PhD track.
Job requirements - A university degree in Physics or Engineering.
- Interest in Earth Observation and working with large datasets.
- Good programming skills (Python or Julia).
TU Delft (Delft University of Technology) Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.
At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core
values and we actively
engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.
Challenge. Change. Impact!
Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences The Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) 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. Our research feeds into our educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource availability, urbanisation and clean water. Our research projects are conducted in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG is convinced of the importance of open science and supports its scientists in integrating open science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport & Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.
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here to go to the website of the Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences.
Conditions of employment Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.
Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3059 - €3881 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.
The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.
Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit,
Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A
Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.
Additional informationIf you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Prof.Dr. Paco Lopez Dekker
F.LopezDekker@tudelft.nl, or Owen O'Driscoll
O.P.ODriscoll@tudelft.nl.
Application procedureAre you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than
17 March 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
You can address your application to Paco Lopez Dekker.
Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the
Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.
Please note: - You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
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