PhD Position in Greenland Ice Sheet Hydrology and Dynamics
Explore subglacial meltwater dynamics and sediment transport using satellite radar interferometry and machine learning.
Best for:Best for geoscience or physics graduates with an interest in remote sensing, glaciology, and machine learning who are eager to develop programming and data analysis skills.
Overview
This PhD position at the Department of Glaciology and Climate, GEUS, focuses on investigating how meltwater moves beneath the Greenland Ice Sheet and influences ice flow and sediment transport. The project combines satellite radar interferometry with machine learning to map subglacial water routes and analyze their impact on glacier dynamics. The successful candidate will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including Prof. Nanna B. Karlsson and Prof. Louise S. Sørensen, and be enrolled in the PhD program at DTU-Space. The position offers a 3-year contract starting January 1, 2027, in Copenhagen, Denmark, with a focus on professional development and well-being in an international research environment.
What you'll do
- Map subglacial water routes using satellite radar interferometry (InSAR/DInSAR) and analyze their evolution over time.
- Apply machine learning techniques to study the coupling between meltwater and ice flow dynamics.
- Investigate how meltwater and ice dynamics influence sediment output from glaciers using remote-sensing and in-situ datasets.
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including glaciologists, geophysicists, and data scientists.
- Develop and refine programming and data analysis skills, particularly in Python and machine learning methods.
- Present research findings at conferences and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
- Engage in professional development activities and contribute to departmental seminars and social events.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in geoscience, physics, geophysics, engineering, or a related field (or completion expected by the start date).
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency required for communication and research activities.
Instruction: English (with Danish language lessons available for non-Danish speakers).
- Curiosity and motivation to learn about glaciology, ice sheet processes, and satellite remote sensing.
- Basic programming skills (e.g., Python) or willingness to develop them.
- Interest in data-driven methods, including machine learning.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proficiency in English (written and spoken).
- No specific nationality restrictions, but Danish language lessons may be required for non-Danish speakers.
- Applicants must be eligible for admission to PhD studies at DTU-Space.
- No age restrictions mentioned.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-01
Applicants must submit a CV and either a degree certificate or a pre-approval signed by the supervisor and examiner, confirming that the thesis will be approved. The pre-approval must be confirmed by the educational institution. Apply through the official GEUS portal by the deadline.
- CV
- Degree certificate or pre-approval signed by supervisor and examiner
Contact
Nanna B. Karlsson· Professor and Main Supervisor
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