PhD Spaceborne Global Navigation Satellite System Reflectometry

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HORIZON EUROPE - MARIE SKŁODOWSKA-CURIE ACTIONS - DOCTORAL NETWORKS

GNSS-R SATELLITE EARTH OBSERVATION (GLITTER)

The Geophysics and remote Sensing (GRS) Laboratory is dedicated to addressing critical issues such as climate dynamic, sea level variability, and geodynamics. Primary objectives include satellite geodesy of new remote sensing applications and the acquisition of reliable geodetic measurements to monitor environmental changes. I Addressing critical challenges facing our planet, such as resource exploration, natural hazard monitoring and mitigation, and climate change adaptation, is paramount. Furthermore, research extends to space-borne GNSS-R for soil moisture assessment, surface water mapping, and grazing angle GNSS-R for sea-ice studies.

The University of Luxembourg is seeking to hire a highly motivated and outstanding researcher in the area of space-borne GNSS-R to join the GRS Laboratory, under the supervision of Dr. Sajad Tabibi. We welcome individuals driven by excellence, excited about innovation, and looking to make a difference. If this sounds like you, you've come to the right place!

Commitment to Equality and Diversity:

The GLITTER consortium is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of the project. We particularly encourage applications from women, underrepresented minorities, and individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, aiming to create an inclusive research environment that reflects the diversity of our society. Our policies ensure equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, age, sexual orientation, or religion.

Find out more about the Doctoral Network GLITTER

Your Role...

General Project Description:

The GNSS-R Satellite Earth Observation (GLITTER) project harnesses the power of GNSS-R (Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry) for advanced Earth observation. This technique uses the reflections of GNSS signals off various surfaces-land, sea, and ice-to monitor environmental conditions. Our ambitious goal is to pioneer a new generation of experts capable of making significant advancements in this field through doctoral level education and research. At the heart of GLITTER is the development of a synchronized constellation of CubeSats, offering a cost-effective yet powerful approach to Earth observation. This innovative system allows for enhanced resolution and data accuracy through advanced beamforming techniques. Essential to our methodology are ground-truth data and calibration methods derived from near-field radar technology, which will enable comprehensive research across all facets of GNSS-R technology. This includes the launching and adjustment of CubeSat formations, RF synchronization, interferometry between moving platforms, and calibration of RF front-ends, alongside ground testing with drones and CubeSat systems, on-board processing, data transfer, and analysis. The project's scope extends beyond GNSS-R technology to potentially revolutionize fields that use interferometry, like radio astronomy and phased-array-based communications. Moreover, GLITTER aims to support various industry sectors, including precision agriculture, forestry, and land and sea management, by providing accurate data essential for climate change.

DOCTORAL CANDIDATE #5 - Project Description and Training Programme:

GNSS Reflectometry (GNSS-R) is an innovative remote sensing method that exploits signals from GNSS after reflection from the Earth's surface. The doctoral candidate will investigate dual-frequency phase measurements during grazing-angle GNSS-R events. In this context, the successful candidate will develop algorithms to precisely determine altimetric height over sea ice and to understand sea ice classification with adequate accuracy and precision. Additionally, this project aims to develop an accurate algorithm for neutral atmospheric delay correction for spaceborne GNSS-R. As part of the GRS Laboratory, the PhD candidate will contribute to the development and implementation of cutting-edge deep learning techniques for space-borne GNSS-R studies. Hosted by UL with a 6-month secondment at CSIC in Barcelona, Spain, and Hydroscan in Belgium, this program is designed to equip the candidate with the necessary skills for high-impact research in Earth observation.

What we expect from you…

• A master's degree or equivalent in geodesy, geophysics, remote sensing, applied mathematics or physics, computer science, telecommunication engineering with a focus on remote sensing and EO, or similar.
• Knowledge of remote sensing techniques preferably radar techniques; ideally experience in analyzing GNSS or EO data.
• Strong programming skills in MATLAB, Python or C++.
• Highly committed, excellent team-worker, and strong critical thinking.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

EU Eligibility Criteria for Candidates:

• To be eligible for the Doctoral Candidate #5 position, candidates must meet the following criteria established by the Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions:
  • Nationality: Candidates can be nationals of any EU Member State, countries associated with Horizon Europe,or third countries worldwide.
  • Educational Requirement: Applicants must not have been awarded a doctoral degree prior to the recruitment date, ensuring the position is reserved for early-stage researchers embarking on their doctoral studies.
  • Mobility Rule: Candidates must not have resided or engaged in their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Luxembourg for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately before the recruitment date. Exceptions to this rule include compulsory national service, short stays such as vacations, and periods of obtaining refugee status under the Geneva Convention.

These criteria aim to promote international mobility within research community, fostering a diverse and dynamic environment for scientific inquiry and innovation.

How to apply...

Applications should be submitted in English and must include the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Transcript of all modules and results from university-level courses taken
• Cover letter including topics of particular interest to the candidate (approx. 1 page)
• Name, affiliation and contact details of two referees

The application deadline is May 15, 2024, 23:59 UTC. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.

The University of Luxembourg embraces inclusion and diversity as key values. We are fully committed to removing any discriminatory barrier related to gender, and not only, in recruitment and career progression of our staff.

General information:

• Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 36 Month (which may be extended up to four years)
• Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week
• Location: Belval
• Foreseen starting date: September 2024
• EU Research Framework Programme: GLITTER, Grant Agreement N° 101120117
• Employee and student status
• Job Reference: UOL06366