University of Copenhagen PhD Scholarship

The Department of Geoscience & Natural Resources at the Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, invites applications for a fully funded PhD scholarship in Physical Geography, commencing 1 July 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. This position is part of the CASCADE project, which aims to advance understanding of Antarctic subglacial drainage using cutting-edge remote sensing and machine learning techniques.

The research group specializes in glacier and ice-sheet dynamics, focusing on Greenland and Antarctica. Their work investigates how ice responds to climate change, both historically and in the present, to improve predictions of sea-level rise and Earth system feedbacks. The group employs interdisciplinary approaches, combining field data collection, remote sensing, and modelling.

The CASCADE project will utilize Sentinel-1 Synthetic Aperture Radar processed as double-difference interferograms (DInSAR) to map Antarctic subglacial drainage at a continental scale. Automated machine-learning workflows will detect minute surface uplift and subsidence signals, enabling systematic identification of drainage events every 6–12 days. The project’s primary deliverable is the first pan-Antarctic map and time series of subglacial hydrological events, including drainage routes, frequency, and seasonal variability. These remote-sensing products will inform improved basal hydrology parameterizations within ISSM, linking observed water dynamics to ice-sheet motion.

The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree in microwave remote sensing, earth observation, or a closely related field, with strong academic results and proficiency in English. Relevant publications, work experience, and professional activities will be considered during assessment. The position is available for a 3-year period and includes full-time employment as a PhD fellow, with salary and terms governed by Danish state agreements.

Key responsibilities include managing and carrying out an independent research project, attending PhD courses (approx. 30 ECTS), participating in active research environments (including a stay at another institution, preferably abroad), teaching and disseminating research, writing scientific papers for high-impact journals, and defending a PhD thesis based on the project.

Applicants must submit a motivated letter, CV, diplomas, transcripts, publication list, and reference letters (if available) in English. The deadline for applications is 10 April 2026, 23:59 CEST. After the deadline, selected applicants will be assessed by an expert committee, and the final selection will be made based on research potential and relevant skills. The successful candidate will then formally apply for enrolment at the PhD School of Science.

For further information about the PhD fellowship, contact the principal supervisor, Associate Professor Anders Anker Bjørk ([email protected]). General information about PhD study at the Faculty of Science is available at https://www.science.ku.dk/phd/. The University of Copenhagen encourages applications from all backgrounds and strives to reflect the diversity of the surrounding community.

Application link: https://employment.ku.dk/all-vacancies/?show=159126