Open Positions
Post-Doc., PhD Studentships and Visualization Specialist vacancies in the Space Research and Planetology Division of the University of Bern

The PIG (Planetary Imaging Group) group has a vacancy at post-doctoral level and will shortly have at least two further vacancies at PhD level.

The PIG team mostly focusses on the physics of dynamic phenomena at the surfaces of solar system bodies and particularly those where volatile species are of importance. The main objects of interest are currently comets and Mars. The team performs this work through development of instruments for spacecraft (e.g. CaSSIS on the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter), laboratory investigations of ices and mixtures, and data analysis/modelling (e.g. modelling of Rosetta observations).

We are currently seeking a Post-Doctoral Research Assistant (earliest start date 1 October) to work on the morphology of 67P and/or ice-related processes on Mars. We aim to find a person that complements our existing team. A recent PhD in planetary sciences, physics, geophysics or geology with experience in data analysis and processing would be ideal.

Two and possibly three PhD studentships will become available with the next 12 months following graduation of several members of our existing team. The first position will be available in October. The studentships cover laboratory investigations of ices, modelling of their thermal properties, and sublimation processes with application to comets and Mars. An MSc. with a significant physics/geophysics component is required for these positions.

A further position is available for a ‘Visualization Specialist”. Our group is increasingly using 3D visualization techniques to display data for scientific as well as public relations purposes. We are currently looking for a specialist to continue this work. A Post-Doc. with a computing science background would be suitable but highly motivated persons qualified at MSc. level will also be considered. Experience with tools such as Unity and Oculus Rift would be an advantage.

Interested applicants should send their curriculum vitae (including professional experience), a one page motivation letter, and the contact details of two reference persons. Applications should be sent to Prof. Nicolas Thomas ([email protected]).