PhD Student in Machine Learning and Data Processing for Seismic Measurements Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron DESY in Germany

The Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron DESY in Hamburg is offering a PhD position focused on machine learning and data processing in the field of seismic measurements. DESY is a world-leading research center with a strong emphasis on deciphering the structure and function of matter, and it provides an outstanding environment for scientific and technical research as well as training for young researchers.

Dr. Markus Hoffmann's research group is spearheading an innovative project that processes and analyzes seismic data from a large-scale Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) network. This network is installed across the DESY campus and in the accelerator tunnels of PETRA III and the European XFEL. The project aims to precisely locate seismic noise sources, understand their interaction with building and tunnel structures, and ultimately improve beam stability and temporal synchronization in the femtosecond range. The doctoral research will focus on developing machine learning algorithms for the automated evaluation of extensive DAS datasets, with a particular emphasis on the localization of seismic noise sources.

Key responsibilities include developing machine learning algorithms for seismic source localization (e.g., on 2D grid maps), analyzing and preprocessing large DAS datasets, using synthetic training data from seismic simulations (in collaboration with a postdoc), evaluating localization results for physical plausibility and accelerator operation, visualizing extracted parameters, and integrating these into existing analysis and control systems. The role involves close collaboration with interdisciplinary teams at DESY and external partners, participation in collaborative projects such as ErUM-SESAM and WAVE, and engagement in public relations and supervision of bachelor's and master's theses.

Applicants should hold a Master's or Diploma degree in physics, computer science, geosciences, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Strong skills in data analysis and/or machine learning, programming experience (ideally in Python and C), familiarity with Linux-based systems and computing clusters, and an interest in interdisciplinary research are essential. Good English communication skills are required. Candidates must also meet the University of Hamburg's admission requirements for doctoral studies, as DESY collaborates with the university for awarding doctoral degrees.

DESY offers a unique international research campus with flexible working hours, part-time options, job-sharing models, and up to 50% mobile work. Employees benefit from a family-friendly atmosphere, health management programs, a company pension scheme, and job security as a publicly funded employer. The position is funded with a monthly salary amounting to 67% of pay grade 13 TVöD (federal government), and an employer subsidy for the Deutschland-Ticket is provided.

Applications are accepted year-round until the position is filled. To apply, submit your cover letter, CV, certificates, and two references via the DESY application portal. Letters of recommendation should be uploaded using the online tool. For technical questions, contact Dr. Markus Hoffmann at [email protected]. Further information about DESY and the application process can be found on the DESY careers page.