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Atmospheric Optics and Experimental Physics● Open★ EU-FUNDED⏰ 3 days leftPreview

Doctoral Researcher in Ice Crystal Surface Roughness and Atmospheric Optics

Explore the optical effects of ice crystal surface roughness using advanced nano-printing and precision measurements in atmospheric science.

Best for:Best for experimental physicists, optics engineers, or atmospheric scientists with hands-on lab experience and strong programming skills in Python or MATLAB.

Tampere University · Tampere, Finland · R1 · First-stage researcher
More professors at Tampere University
ice crystal surface roughnessatmospheric light scatteringnano-fabrication in atmospheric sciencebidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF)polarized light measurementclimate model validation
Deadline
Oct 18, 2026
3 days
Funding
Salaried
€3k/mo
Start date
1 January 2027 (flexible by mutual agreement)
Full-time
Location
Tampere
Finland

Overview

This doctoral position at Tampere University focuses on investigating how nano- and microscale surface roughness of ice crystals affects their optical properties and atmospheric impact. As part of the ERC-funded CRYSTAL project, the successful candidate will conduct experimental research combining optics, precision measurement, and computational analysis. The work involves designing and fabricating nano-printed ice crystal surfaces, characterizing their optical responses, and validating theoretical models against laboratory measurements. The project aims to improve climate and satellite observation models by enhancing the understanding of ice crystal scattering behavior. The role offers structured doctoral training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and exposure to cutting-edge atmospheric optics and nano-fabrication techniques.

ice crystal opticsnano-printingatmospheric physicsBRDF measurementslight scatteringERC-funded researchexperimental atmospheric sciencesurface metrology

What you'll do

  • Investigate the optical response of nano- and microscale ice crystal surface roughness using advanced 3D nano-printing techniques.
  • Plan and execute optical characterization experiments, including polarization-resolved BRDF measurements.
  • Develop robust data-processing and quality-control routines for analyzing scattering data.
  • Collaborate with postdoctoral researchers to validate theoretical models (e.g., Harvey-Shack theory) against experimental results.
  • Assess and prepare representative ice crystal surface morphologies for nano-fabrication and quality assurance.
  • Present findings at international conferences and contribute to scientific publications.
  • Take increasing responsibility for experiments, data analysis, and project management as the research progresses.

Requirements

Degree required: Master's degree in experimental physics, optics, photonics, atmospheric science, or a related field

Degree offered: PhD

Language: English; no specific proficiency test required

Instruction: English

Required skills
  • Hands-on experience with optical or precision laboratory measurements
  • Strong programming and data-analysis skills in Python, MATLAB, or comparable tools
  • Familiarity with light-scattering or BRDF measurements (advantageous but not mandatory)
  • Experience with surface metrology, microscopy, or nano-fabrication (advantageous but not mandatory)
Nice to have
Prior experience with gonioreflectometry or ice-particle opticsKnowledge of atmospheric cloud microphysicsBackground in computational light scattering or theoretical optics
Eligibility
  • Must hold an internationally recognized Master's degree by the starting date
  • No nationality or residency restrictions mentioned
  • No age or prior experience caps specified

Funding & terms

Type
Salaried
Amount
€3k/mo
Duration
3.5 years (fixed-term)
Programme
ERC-funded CRYSTAL project
EU-FUNDEDEuropean Research Council (ERC)

How to apply

Deadline: 2026-10-18 (EET (UTC +2))

Submit your application through Tampere University’s online recruitment system. Ensure all documents are in English and attached as PDFs. The application must include a CV, list of publications, referee contact information, and a motivation letter detailing your relevant experience and research interests.

Documents required
  • CV according to TENK guidelines
  • List of publications following Academy of Finland guidelines
  • Contact information for two referees
  • Motivation letter describing relevant experience, research interests, and motivation for the project
↗Apply on site

Contact

Emma Järvinen· Project Supervisor

emma.jarvinen@tuni.fi

EJ
Prof.
Emma Järvinen
Aerosol Physics Laboratory
Lab
Aerosol and Cloud Particle Optics group
Tampere University
ERC-funded CRYSTAL projectFinland
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