Helmholtz-Zentrum Potsdam
Deutsches
Geoforschungszentrum

Vacancy No. 18/2/09 G

The Helmholtz Centre Potsdam GFZ, German Research Centre for Geosciences is the national Research Centre for Geosciences in Germany and a member of the Helmholtz Association. The Volcanology Group in the Department 2 "Physics of the Earth" invites applications for a 3-year

PhD position (m/f)

to work on volcano deformation processes with combined ground based and space based InSAR with the title:

“Multi-scale detection of flank movements and ground displacements associated with intrusive activity”

The methodology is based on two axes, (1) space borne InSAR that aims to detect displacements at areas exceeding 100 km². The second methodological axis on which the PhD project will focus on is (2) to apply a transportable ground-based SAR interferometric radar technique. The ground-based InSAR instrument is already fully funded, and is based on a similar technique as space borne InSAR. Resolution size, repetition rate and data availability depend only on the transportable instrument itself and are hence highly advantageous. High range resolution is obtained using large transmitted bandwidth whereas high cross range resolution is derived exploiting the movement of the physical antenna along a straight trajectory, and allow to acquire data up to distances of 6 km from the observed object (e.g. the volcano flank).To be studied volcanoes are various within Europe, the project will start with elaboration of the instrument at Nisyros Caldera, Greece.

Based on the multiple deformation data derived from the two complimentary InSAR methods, physical models should be developed. The source of deformation should be investigated in order to assess the volume and stress change of given fault planes and magma bodies. The far field goal of the project is to better understand whether near surface faults are reactivated and how local mechanical contrasts affect the deformation pattern.

Qualification: Students with solid quantitative skills (numerical methods, statistics), some programming knowledge, and interest in geodetic signal processing are encouraged to apply. Experience in instrumentation and geophysical data processing is helpful, as is a background crustal deformation processes, and the ability to conduct field work in volcanic areas with the ground-based InSAR System. Applicants must hold a master degree, or an equivalent level of education, in geodesy, geophysics, physics or a related discipline.

For further information contact T. R. Walter, see the institutions website www.gfz-potsdam.de or direct an email to twalter[AT]gfz-potsdam.de. Application material shall include a short cover letter, a full CV and a statement of research interest, and the names and addresses of three referees that might be contacted. Printed applications should be submitted before May 10, 2009 to: GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Abt. Personal- und Sozialwesen, Telegrafenberg, 14473 Potsdam, Germany

Review of applications begin four weeks after the announcement of the position and continues until position is filled. Equal opportunity is part of our personnel policy. The GFZ Potsdam encourages applications from qualified female candidates. There is a kindergarten service available. Handicapped applicants will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications.