Postdoctoral Position in Computational Mechanics / Arctic Glaciology
University Of Zurich
Description
The Glaciology and Geomorphodynamics Group of the Department of Geography is dedicated to basic and applied research in Alpine areas and in the Arctic. The Snow Avalanche Simulation Laboratory of EPFL is leading the application of novel numerical methods to geophysical settings.
Your responsibilities
The project "Comprehensive Observations of Episodic Basal, Englacial and Lateral Influences on Ice Stream Dynamics" (COEBELI) is a collaborative effort of several research institutions to understand the mechanisms leading to rapid ice flow of outlet glaciers of the Greenland ice sheet. The project uses a combination of field observations (dynamics, seismicity), remote- sensing products, and state-of-the-art numerical models to investigate non- continuous processes leading to fast ice flow. Within the project, the Material Point Method (MPM) will be used to model detailed high-rate processes such as glacier calving and tsunami wave generation, episodic crevassing in the ice stream margins, and basal fracturing processes leading to seismic emissions. The successful candidate will interpret field data from Jakobshavn Isbrae (Greenland) with model results to obtain relevant model parameters, and to investigate the physical processes. A close collaboration with PhD students is envisioned. The post-doc will be supervised by Dr. Martin Lüthi (UZH) and Dr. Johan Gaume (EPFL).
Your profile
Candidates should hold a PhD in (computational) mechanics or in (computational) geosciences. Back-ground/experience in solid and/or fluid mechanics and numerical modeling is mandatory. Additional qualifications such as experience with the Material Point Method or with glacier calving processes are an advantage. The candidate should have very good English skills and is expected to be a team player with excellent communication capabilities as she/he will collaborate with students and PhDs involved in the project.
What we offer
UZH and EPFL foster equal opportunities and are family friendly employers who value diversity and strive to increase the number of women scientists.
Place of work
Irchel Campus
Start of employment
January 1st or upon agreement.
Please submit your application before 17 December 2021 including a letter of application briefly indicating your research plans as well as names and contact details of two possible referees, your curriculum vitae, a copy of your PhD diploma and a writing sample (your PhD thesis or relevant publications) in pdf-form.
