Ghent University invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher in magnetic soil exploration, based in the Department of Environment (BW20 - Omgeving) within the Faculty of Bioscience Engineering. This position focuses on developing, optimizing, and deploying magnetometer instrumentation for high-resolution near-surface characterization, with a primary emphasis on ordnance detection and integrating magnetometry into multi-sensor platforms. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary research project, collaborating with engineers and data scientists to design geophysics-based solutions for challenges in ordnance detection and magnetic soil surveys.

Ghent University is a leading institution with over 15,000 staff, offering diverse career opportunities across 11 faculties and more than 80 departments. The Department of Environment has a strong track record in high-resolution near-surface geophysics, providing an excellent research environment for this project.

Key responsibilities include optimizing magnetometry hardware setups for manual and mobile (terrestrial and airborne) multi-sensor survey configurations, conducting field experiments to assess noise levels and instrument sensitivities, developing frameworks for sensor setup and data collection, collecting and pre-processing magnetic survey data, and providing annotated datasets for testing automated data interpretation and computer vision approaches. The researcher will report findings to project partners, stakeholders, and the scientific community through peer-reviewed publications and presentations.

Applicants must hold a thesis-based doctorate in applied geophysics or a related field, with experience in high-resolution magnetometer surveys (fluxgate and optically pumped systems) for near-surface applications such as ordnance detection, archaeology, or pollutant studies. Demonstrable experience with geophysical (magnetic) forward modelling and proficiency in scientific programming (Python) are required. Experience with soil or environmental magnetism is advantageous. Candidates must have published at least two scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals listed on Web of Science, possess proficiency in English, and be nationals of an EU, EFTA, or NATO member country.

The position offers a contract of definite duration for 1 year at 100% FTE, with the possibility of extension to 2 years at 50% FTE. Remuneration is determined by salary scale PD1 for doctorate holders. Ghent University staff enjoy a range of benefits, including training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers.

Applications must be submitted online via the Ghent University e-recruitment system before the deadline of 2 March 2026. Required documents include a CV and academic transcript (merged PDF), cover letter (PDF) with two professional references, and diploma transcript. If the diploma is in a language other than Dutch, French, German, or English, a translation must be provided. Optionally, a reference letter may be uploaded. Late or email applications will not be considered. For further information, contact Prof. Philippe De Smedt at [email protected]. Questions about the application process can be directed to [email protected].