PhD Research Fellow in Space Physics – Gamma-Ray Glows and Thunderstorm Ground Enhancements University of Bergen in Norway

The University of Bergen invites applications for a PhD Research Fellow in Space Physics, focusing on the experimental investigation of gamma-ray glows and Thunderstorm Ground Enhancements. This position is based in the Department of Physics and Technology and is funded by the GRAIL project (“Gamma Radiation from the Atmosphere for Investigation and Learning”), part of the Horizon Europe MSCA Doctoral Network. The appointment is for three years, with the possibility of a fourth year dedicated to career-promoting activities such as teaching.

The research project explores thunderclouds as natural particle accelerators, capable of producing gamma-rays and long-duration emissions associated with intense electric fields. The successful candidate will conduct ground-based observations at international facilities, analyze data from aircraft and ground-based sources, and assess the feasibility of deploying gamma-ray instrumentation at additional sites. The findings are expected to contribute to top-tier peer-reviewed journals and be presented at international conferences.

As part of the GRAIL network, the candidate will benefit from extensive collaboration opportunities, including funded attendance at conferences, summer and winter schools, online seminars, and PhD-level courses. Planned secondments include the ASEC laboratory in Armenia and ASTRON in the Netherlands, providing hands-on experience with radiation instrumentation.

The Space Physics group at the University of Bergen, led by Professor Martino Marisaldi, is internationally recognized and manages several funded projects, including the ERC Advanced Grant ENLIGHTEN. The group offers a stimulating environment with a wide network of collaborators across Europe and the USA.

Applicants must hold a master's degree or equivalent in Physics, or be in the final stages of their master's studies (completion required by 01.08.2026). Essential 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, atmospheric or lightning physics. Strong written and oral English skills, independence, and collaborative abilities are required. The Horizon Europe mobility rule applies: candidates must not have resided in Norway for more than 12 months in the three 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 comprehensive welfare benefits. Additional funding supports international travel, training, and secondments. The PhD fellowship requires participation in an approved educational programme, with admission to the PhD programme at the Faculty of Science and Technology within two months of starting.

To apply, submit your application via Jobbnorge, including a motivation letter, detailed qualifications, contact information for two referees, CV, transcripts, diplomas, certificates, documentation of English proficiency, and a publication list. Certified translations into English or a Scandinavian language are required. The University of Bergen is committed to diversity and inclusivity, encouraging applications from all backgrounds.

For further information, contact Professor Martino Marisaldi ([email protected]) or Head of Department Kjetil Ullaland ([email protected]). HR-related questions can be directed to Vivian Stegen Jacobsen ([email protected]).