PhD in Estimation of Heat Fluxes over the Oceans from Synthetic Aperture Radar Data (FluxSAR)

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.