Postdoctoral research position on the exploitation of hyperspectral infrared measurements from ground and air for a better understanding of atmospheric NH3

Introduction

The Spectroscopy, Quantum Chemistry and Atmospheric Remote Sensing laboratory (SQUARES - https://squares.ulb.be/atmosphere.html) at the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB) is looking for a motivated candidate holding a PhD degree in an exact science (e.g. Chemistry, Physics, Environmental science, Bioengineering, Informatics, Geography, Geology,...) to perform research in the field of atmospheric remote sensing. 

Satellite remote sensing of our atmosphere covers many different research branches including atmospheric composition and chemistry, the study of the global environment and climate (change), natural (fires, volcanoes, dust storms) and anthropogenic emissions (agriculture, industry, transport), air quality and pollution, radiative transfer and molecular spectroscopy, inverse models, numerical analysis and algorithm design. In each of this sub-domains exciting research is being performed. The ULB-SQUARES group has built up a strong expertise and international recognition in many of these domains, in particular concerning atmospheric sounding in the thermal infrared spectral domain, with the IASI satellite instrument. Using the IASI measurements major progress has been obtained in the understanding of both short and long-lived atmospheric gases and processes that drive their distributions.

Research

For this postdoc position, we are specifically seeking someone to work on a recently acquired STEREO project (https://eo.belspo.be/en/stereo-iv-programme). The goal of this project is to better quantify and understand the sources and processes driving atmospheric ammonia (NH3) agricultural and industrial emissions and subsequent deposition in Belgium. To achieve this objective, the project will exploit a unique set of complementary measurement techniques, consisting of in-situ measurements on ground and infrared remote sensing from ground, aircraft and satellites. State of the art modelling at very high spatial resolution will allow upscaling and bridging the different spatial and temporal scales. The results of this project will directly benefit the quality of the Belgian emission inventories, and on a wider scale the top- down emissions that can be derived from current (IASI, CrIS) and future satellite sounders (IRS, Nitrosat).  

The research position encompasses the analysis of hyperspectral/hyperspatial infrared data acquired from aircrafts and from ground for the quantification of ammonia (emission fluxes) and identification of sources. For this, dedicated algorithms will be developed that will be combined with existing tools. The researcher will take an active part in the dedicated project campaigns, but also existing data acquired during other campaigns will be exploited. The obtained data will be compared with in-situ and satellite measurements and modelled data. The results that will be obtained will be presented in conferences and workshops and published in reputable journals.

The ideal candidate should:

•  have prior experience with hyperspectral infrared measurements
•  hold a PhD degree in Sciences or Applied Sciences
•  have experience with data-analysis and programming/scripting. Experience with Matlab is a bonus.
•  be fluent in English (spoken and written)
•  have a natural curiosity for the world around them, steered by a critical and creative mind
•  have a good sense of initiative and be well-organized  
•  be eager to learn and motivated to start research
•  be able to work independently and in a team
•  have a logical and problem-solving mind

We offer

•  A full-time research position of at least 1 year, with the possibility of extension (the project duration is five years).
•  The possibility to perform exciting research in a stimulating research environment where quality, professionalism and team spirit are encouraged
•  Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure
•  Flexible schedule and possibility to work occasionally from home

Procedure

After evaluating the submitted applications, selected candidates will be invited for an interview. ULB seeks to foster an environment where all talents can flourish, regardless of gender, age, cultural background, nationality or impairments.

Interested?

Please send Martin Van Damme (Martin.Van.Damme@ulb.be ) and Lieven Clarisse (lieven.clarisse@ulb.be)  a detailed CV and a cover letter describing your motivation.