PhD Research Fellow in Space Physics University of Bergen in Norway

The University of Bergen invites applications for a PhD Research Fellow in Space Physics, based at the Department of Physics and Technology. This position is part of the GRAIL (“Gamma Radiation from the Atmosphere for Investigation and Learning”) project, funded by the Horizon Europe programme under the Maria Skłodowska Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Network. The fellowship is for a fixed-term period of 3 years, with the possibility of a 4th year involving career-promoting work such as teaching.

The research focuses on thunderclouds as natural particle accelerators, specifically investigating Terrestrial Gamma-ray Flashes (TGF) and their observation from space. The successful candidate will develop innovative mission concepts for TGF observation, building on the scientific exploitation of the ASIM mission onboard the International Space Station and the ALOFT flight campaign. The project includes the study and development of detectors and mission profiles for atmospheric electricity experiments, aiming to advance beyond the current state-of-the-art. Results are expected to be published in top-tier journals and presented at international conferences.

The PhD project is one of 15 GRAIL PhD projects across Europe, with two hosted at the University of Bergen. The candidate will benefit from extensive collaboration within the Horizon Europe GRAIL network, including funding for international conferences, transferable-skills training, and academic courses such as summer and winter schools. Planned secondments include Duke University (USA) and IDEAS (Norway).

The Space Physics group at the Department of Physics and Technology, led by Professor Martino Marisaldi, offers a stimulating environment with ongoing funded projects and a strong international reputation. The team collaborates widely across Europe and the USA, including the ERC Advanced Grant project ENLIGHTEN.

Applicants must hold a master's degree or equivalent in physics, or be in the final stages of their master's programme (completion required by 01.08.2026). Required qualifications include documented experience with radiation detectors, proficiency in programming languages for scientific data analysis and visualization, and general knowledge of the near-earth space environment. Additional advantages include knowledge of atmospheric or lightning physics and space systems engineering. Candidates must demonstrate independence, structured work habits, collaborative skills, and proficiency in English. The Horizon Europe mobility rule applies: candidates must not have resided in Norway for more than 12 months in the 3 years prior to recruitment.

The position offers a gross annual salary of NOK 568,700, with increases based on length of service, enrolment in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, and welfare benefits. Funding is available for conference attendance and personal development through the GRAIL network.

Applications must be submitted via Jobbnorge and include a research interests statement, detailed qualifications justification, contact information for two referees, CV, transcripts, diplomas, certificates, and documentation of English proficiency. Certified translations into English or a Scandinavian language are required if applicable. The application deadline is 24 May 2026.

For further information, contact Professor Martino Marisaldi ([email protected]) or Head of Department Kjetil Ullaland ([email protected]). The University of Bergen is committed to diversity and inclusivity, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates regardless of background.