Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
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PhD Position in Physics of the Earth: Atmospheric Pressure Loading and Crustal Deformation Karlsruhe Institute of Technology in Germany
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Geophysics
Funding
Available
Deadline
Nov 30, 2026
Country
Germany
University
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
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About this position
This PhD project in Earth physics and geophysics investigates how atmospheric pressure loading deforms the Earth's crust and how these effects can be identified and corrected in highly sensitive rotation measurements.
The doctoral researcher will develop deterministic, physics-based quantitative models of crustal deformation caused by atmospheric pressure. A major part of the work involves designing, deploying, and operating a large-N array of autonomous barometers around the Black Forest Observatory (BFO). Measurements from the barometer array will be combined with BFO's high-quality deformation sensors to derive parametric descriptions of time-varying lateral air-pressure gradients.
The project will then model how atmospheric loading couples into crustal deformation and develop a signal-correction procedure to mitigate local background disturbances in rotation measurements. These corrections are important for applications in gravitational-wave observatories, normal-mode seismology, and Earth-orientation determination, where instruments coupled to the Earth's crust must detect extremely small signals.
The researcher will follow the complete research chain, from array design and field data collection through coupling-model development and application of the correction procedure. Within the RING framework, the project involves collaboration with 15 other early-career researchers, measurements at partner sites, and supervision of test installations of advanced rotation sensors at BFO. The work will also be communicated through project meetings, international conferences, and scientific publications, with opportunities to assist in lectures and field courses in geophysics bachelor's and master's programmes.
The research is connected with the Black Forest Observatory, the RING Research Unit, and the Geophysical Institute at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology within the Helmholtz research environment.
Funding details
Available
How to apply
Apply through the external application website linked from the Nature Careers listing. Review the extended project description and related KIT and Geophysical Institute information before applying.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.