Postdoc in Ionospheric Physics

We offer an opportunity for a motivated researcher to contribute to advancing our understanding of how Earth's upper atmosphere interacts with space. The successful candidate will study magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling, with an emphasis on the electrodynamic interactions that transfer energy and momentum between space and the atmosphere. The position is based at DTU Space, within the Division for Geomagnetism and Geospace, an internationally leading research environment with strong expertise in space physics, geomagnetism, and data analysis.

This position is connected with the ERC DynaMIT project, which aims to explain how Earth's atmosphere is dynamically coupled to space. The project integrates high-resolution observations with new simulations based on first-principles fluid descriptions of plasma-neutral-electromagnetic interactions. The postdoctoral researcher will work closely with the project team to bridge modelling and observations.

Responsibilities and qualifications

The work will involve developing and applying advanced data analysis methods to investigate ionospheric electrodynamics using novel datasets, including those from the EISCAT 3D radar system and NASA's Electrojet Zeeman Imaging Explorer (EZIE) satellite constellation. Observations from ground magnetometers, radars, and satellite missions will be combined to characterize the dynamics of the coupled magnetosphere-ionosphere system.

The candidate must have:

• Strong knowledge and experience in polar magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling, demonstrated by a solid publication record.
• Experience in data analysis related to magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling; experience with magnetometer and incoherent scatter radar data is particularly welcome.
• Excellent skills in Python programming for space science applications; experience with open-source code development or publication is an advantage.
• A proven ability to communicate research results, as evidenced by publications and conference presentations.
• The ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent). 

We offer

DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility. 

Salary and terms of employment

The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment is 3 years.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information 

Further information may be obtained from Karl Laundal )

You can read more about DTU Space at 

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure 

Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 4 January :59 Danish time). 

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications 

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates, irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion, or ethnic background, are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

The DTU Space Institute has approximately 220 employees and is situated in the greater Copenhagen area, specifically at the Lyngby Campus of the Technical University of Denmark. We link natural science closely with the development of new technology. DTU Space is involved in the full life cycle of space activities, encompassing concept and design, construction and prototyping, calibration and validation, implementation and operations, data analysis, processing, dissemination, and applications, ultimately leading to the development of new instruments and applications. With the specialized and refined technology available, we are getting more answers and further insight about the Earth and the universe surrounding us. We contribute to about 200 scientific publications a year. 

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.