The Terrestrial Ecosystem Analysis group at the Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management invite for applications for a postdoctoral position onboard the VILLUM-funded project “Arctic biogenic volatile compounds from above” (AVOCA). We offer a two-year position to be filled by 1 September 2023 or as soon as possible after.

About the project

Emissions of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) from terrestrial vegetation are expected to change as a consequence of climate change. The abundance of emitted BVOCs is linked to climate feedbacks through their influence on atmospheric chemical processes and cloud formation. Recent studies of local emissions from Arctic tundra have now shown that this region has notable emission rates which may be highly relevant for our future climate.

AVOCA is a multidisciplinary project focusing on quantifying emissions of the most dominant BVOCs in Arctic terrestrial ecosystems. We will develop and apply new remote sensing techniques using data from unmanned aerial systems (UAS), satellite data, and field work to develop proxies for BVOC emissions. The project will e.g. explore the implementation of multi- and hyperspectral imaging from UAS for surface classification, estimates of photosynthesis, and for plant stress observations in natural ecosystems, as well as multispectral and thermal imaging for evaluation of surface moisture.

Your profile

We are looking for a candidate with experience and interest in both technical and applied aspects of multi- and hyperspectral remote sensing, and with interest in implementing these systems on UAS. Prior experience with operating UAS is an advantage but not a necessity. You are expected to work independently, have prior experience with computer scripting and have excellent communication skills in written and spoken English. You will be responsible for a project work package in collaboration with the project PI, and we prioritize both the candidate’s own research interests and the project aims, leaving room for personal ambitions within the frames of our research goals. The project includes field work in Denmark and possibility for field work in Sub-Arctic Sweden, and Greenland. Applicants should hold a PhD-degree or be defending it.

Workplace and research groups

You will be working in the Section for Geography in the Terrestrial Ecosystem Analysis research group (https://ign.ku.dk/english/research/geography/terrestrial-ecosystem-analysis/). Our group has a strong expertise in physical, geochemical and biological processes in terrestrial ecosystems related to carbon and nutrient cycles, greenhouse gasses and feedbacks with climate. The workplace offers strong possibilities for collaboration with both in-house remote sensing research groups and external national and international project partners.

Further information on the Department is linked at https://www.science.ku.dk/english/about-the-faculty/organisation/. Inquiries about the position can be made to Tenure Track Assistant Professor Andreas Westergaard-Nielsen (awn@ign.ku.dk).

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Terms of employment

The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.

Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.

Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.

The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

Please include

• Curriculum vitae
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Research plan – description of current and future research plans
• Complete publication list
• Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers

The deadline for applications is 10 April 2023, 23:59 GMT +1.

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.

Interviews are planned to be held in the second half of October 2022.

Part of the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU), and among Europe’s top-ranking universities, the University of Copenhagen promotes research and teaching of the highest international standard. Rich in tradition and modern in outlook, the University gives students and staff the opportunity to cultivate their talent in an ambitious and informal environment. An effective organisation – with good working conditions and a collaborative work culture – creates the ideal framework for a successful academic career.