Oskar Englund

Mid Sweden University is offering a fully funded PhD position in Ecotechnology and Environmental Science, focusing on Antarctic ice shelf processes and their implications for future sea-level rise. The research will investigate the physical mechanisms controlling the stability, structural integrity, and mass balance of Antarctic ice shelves, with the aim of improving projections of their contribution to long-term sea-level change. The project combines field observations, remote sensing, and numerical modelling, and offers the opportunity to participate in Antarctic fieldwork. The doctoral student will be based in Östersund, Sweden, and will be part of the Swedish research school for excellence in Arctic and Antarctic Learning (SEAL), providing an internationally competitive, interdisciplinary research and training environment. The project includes close collaboration with co-supervisors at Uppsala University and is embedded in the international research programme iQ2300, with logistical support from the Swedish Polar Research Secretariat. Regular research visits, field campaigns, and national and international travel for collaboration and conferences are expected. Applicants should have a master's degree or equivalent in physical geography, glaciology, geophysics, climate science, oceanography, meteorology, applied mathematics, physics, engineering, or a related field. Experience with quantitative methods, modelling, data analysis, geoscientific techniques, and fieldwork is highly valued. Additional skills in programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB, Fortran), remote sensing, and handling large datasets are considered meritorious. Strong motivation, analytical skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment are essential. Proficiency in written and spoken English is required. The position is a full-time, salaried doctoral studentship for four years, with possible renewal according to university regulations. The salary follows Mid Sweden University's scale for doctoral students. The successful candidate will benefit from access to unique infrastructure, integrated doctoral courses, and a vibrant research community. The application deadline is 30 April 2026, and the expected start date is 15 August 2026 or as agreed. To apply, submit your application through the university's recruitment system, including a cover letter, CV, degree certificates, transcripts, master's thesis, and contact details for two academic referees. For more information, contact Dr. Katrin Lindbäck ([email protected]) or Prof. Oskar Englund ([email protected]).

The Department of Natural Sciences, Design and Sustainable Development at Mid Sweden University offers a PhD position in Ecotechnology and Environmental Science, focusing on the stability, structural integrity, and mass balance of Antarctic ice shelves. This multidisciplinary project aims to improve projections of Antarctic ice shelf contributions to future sea-level rise, a critical issue in climate science and environmental sustainability. Ice shelves play a key role in regulating the discharge of grounded ice into the ocean, thus influencing long-term sea-level change. However, the mechanisms governing their response to atmospheric and oceanic forcing remain insufficiently understood. The doctoral research may address several themes, including surface melt and firn processes, ice shelf weakening and fracture mechanisms, ice–ocean interaction and basal melting dynamics, and integrated observational and modelling approaches. The student will develop research questions within the thematic scope, analyze observational datasets (such as ground-based radar and weather station data), contribute to numerical model development, assess uncertainties in sea-level projections, publish results in international journals, and present findings at conferences. The position is part of the Swedish research school for excellence in Arctic and Antarctic Learning (SEAL), providing access to unique infrastructure, field campaigns, and interdisciplinary doctoral courses. Collaboration with co-supervisors at Uppsala University and participation in the international research programme iQ2300 (East Antarctic Sea level rise contribution in 2300) are integral to the project. Logistical support is provided by the Swedish Polar Research Secretariat, and the project may involve fieldwork in polar or subpolar environments, requiring extended stays and the ability to work under demanding conditions. Entry requirements include a second-cycle qualification (or equivalent), with at least 90 credits in relevant subject areas such as physical geography, glaciology, geophysics, climate science, oceanography, meteorology, applied mathematics, physics, or engineering. Experience with quantitative methods, modelling, data analysis, geoscientific techniques, and fieldwork is highly valued. Programming skills (Python, MATLAB, Fortran or similar), numerical modelling, remote sensing, large datasets, and fieldwork experience are considered meritorious. Strong written and oral communication skills in English are required. The ideal candidate is highly motivated, curious, and able to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment. The doctoral studentship is a full-time, four-year position, with salary according to Mid Sweden University’s scale. The entry date is 2026-08-15 or as agreed. Active engagement in the research environment and regular on-campus presence in Östersund are expected. Applications must be submitted in English or Swedish and include a cover letter, CV, degree certificates and transcripts, master’s thesis (or equivalent), and contact details for two academic referees. The deadline for applications is 2026-04-30. For further information, contact Dr. Katrin Lindbäck ([email protected]) or Prof. Oskar Englund ([email protected]). Mid Sweden University is committed to equal opportunities and values diversity and inclusion. The university offers a vibrant research and educational environment, with campuses in Sundsvall and Östersund, close to natural surroundings and society. Join a team dedicated to advancing knowledge for a sustainable future.