PhD-student in Physical Geography and Ecosystem Science (PA2022/2657)

Subject description
This PhD Project will analyse observation network strategies to constrain a hot-topic for the terrestrial carbon cycle in the Arctic: the compensating effect of tundra shrubification and tree-line advance (sink of carbon) as compared to the effect of warming on carbon stored in permafrost (source of carbon). The work is part of the EU-funded project Arctic-PASSION (https://arcticpassion.eu).

Work duties
The PhD student will carry out research related to the objectives of Arctic-PASSION. In particular, this project will utilise statistical and numerical modelling to evaluate the impact of specific observing system elements like new or anticipated in situ and satellite based Earth Observation to improve the effectiveness of monitoring for enhancing forecasting capabilities with a focus on terrestrial ecosystems. The PhD student will apply and further develop a network design method to quantify the benefit of additional satellite and in situ data, for instance, provided by future Copernicus Sentinel missions for monitoring environmental and climate change drivers. For this, the student will make use of the Quantitative Network Design (QND) methodology.

The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

Admission requirements
A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if he or she:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

A person meets the specific admission requirements for third cycle studies in Physical Geography and Ecosystem Scienceif he or she has:

• at least 60 credits at Master’s level in Physical Geography and Ecosystem Science or comparable programme

Additional requirements:

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Good knowledge of a higher programming language

Assessment criteria
Selection for third-cycle studies is based on the student’s potential to profit from such studies. The assessment of potential is made primarily on the basis of academic results from the first and second cycle. Special attention is paid to the following:

Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of study. An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems. Written and oral communication skills Other experience relevant to the third-cycle studies, e.g. professional experience.

Other assessment criteria:
Experience with the global dynamic vegetation model LPJ-GUESS.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme.

Terms of employment
Only those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a doctoral studentship. Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1-7 §§.

Instructions on how to apply
Applications shall be written in English and include:

• a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background.
• a CV,
• degree certificate or equivalent
• other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).