Postdoctoral Fellow in Observational Oceanography with Machine Learning applications

The Department of Geological Sciences is part of the Faculty of Science at Stockholm University. It consists of approximately 80 teachers, researchers, doctoral students, and technical/administrative staff.  The department conducts a wide range of fundamental and applied research within marine geology and geophysics, geochemistry and classical geology. 

More information about us, please visit: the Department of Geological Sciences.

Project description

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher for our interdisciplinary project, Tracing How Atlantic Water Impacts North Greenland (THAWING), funded by the Swedish Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation (https://kaw.wallenberg.org/inflode-av-atlantvatten-i-arktis-hotar-gronlands-isar).
This position is one of several positions within THAWING and is ideal for a scientist interested in advanced observational data analysis, enhanced by machine learning techniques. The research focuses on marine-terminating glaciers in North Greenland, leveraging unique datasets from three icebreaker expeditions. You will investigate ocean circulation in this region using CTD, ADCP and hydro-acoustic data, integrating machine learning to identify ocean stratification and tracking of water masses.

This two-year postdoctoral position, with a possible one-year extension, offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to critical climate research using cutting-edge geophysical tools and AI-driven analysis. The THAWING project aims to bridge key knowledge gaps regarding ocean-ice interactions in North Greenland and involves collaboration with an international team of scientists. By joining this project, you will engage with a multidisciplinary network and contribute to understanding how climate change affects one of the Arctic’s remaining perennially sea-ice covered areas. There may be opportunities for additional fieldwork within the project.

Responsibilities: 

• Data Analysis: Explore the potential of midwater acoustic measurements to capture key data on water column structure, temperature, salinity, and currents. This will include machine learning techniques to enhance data interpretation using pattern recognition. Acoustic data are analyzed alongside other observational datasets (e.g., CTD data and discrete biogeochemical sampling) to investigate Atlantic Water circulation within the glacial fjords and the adjacent Lincoln Sea
• Collaborative Research: Integrate observational data with modeling efforts, contributing to improved understanding of subsurface melt of marine-terminating glaciers through interdisciplinary collaboration
• Fieldwork: Potential opportunities for additional fieldwork in marine-terminating glacier environments around Svalbard
• Dissemination: Publish results in leading scientific journals and present findings at international conferences. 

Qualification requirements

Postdoctoral positions are appointed primarily for purposes of research. Applicants are expected to hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent degree from another country.

Assessment criteria

The degree must have been completed at latest before the employment decision is made, but no more than three years before the closing date. An older degree may be acceptable under special circumstances. Special reasons refer to sick leave, parental leave, elected positions in trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances as well as clinical attachment or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.

We seek candidates with a strong background in geosciences, with a particular emphasis on physical oceanography and/or geophysics. Demonstrated experience in machine learning applications, as well as processing and analyzing large datasets, including CTD and midwater acoustic data, is highly desirable. The ideal candidate should be fluent in English and capable of working both independently and collaboratively. Strong organizational skills and the ability to meet project deadlines are essential, as the research involves specific sub-goals within a structured timeline.

The selection among the eligible candidates is based on their expected capacity to complete the project tasks. The following criteria are used to assess this capacity: the applicant's documented knowledge and skills within the subject of their proposed specialization, capability to express their work orally and in writing in English, creativity, ability to take initiatives, capacity for analytical thinking, independence and ability to work with other researchers. The evaluation is based on previous education and experience, quality of previous published research, ambition expressed in the motivation letter, description of the proposed project direction and potentially interviews. 

Selection among the eligible candidates will be based on their expected ability to successfully complete the project tasks. The assessment will consider the applicant’s documented expertise in their chosen specialization, proficiency in communicating research in English (both orally and in writing), creativity, initiative, analytical skills, independence, and ability to collaborate with other researchers. Evaluation criteria include prior education and experience, the quality of previous research, proposed project direction, ambition expressed in the motivation letter, and, if applicable, performance in interviews.

About the employment

The position involves full-time employment for a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years, with the possibility of extension under special circumstances. Start date as per agreement but no sooner than 1st August 2025.

We offer

With us, you will experience the dynamic interaction between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international environment and get favorable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good transport links to the city.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

Further information about the position please contact Associate Professor Christian Stranne, christian.stranne@geo.su.se.

Application

Apply for the position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.