PhD scholarship in Satellite Magnetic Monitoring of Ocean Dynamics - DTU Space
If you are seeking to establishing your career as a geophysicist working at the frontier of the latest Earth observation research, this could be the role for you. At DTU Space you will break new ground, developing novel techniques to place new constraints on ocean processes from satellites.
Responsibilities and qualifications
Your overall focus will be to develop new computational modeling tools, linking satellite magnetic field measurements to ocean properties and separating the ocean signal from noise sources. You will build on the department’s established expertise with satellite magnetic field measurements adding a new focus on monitoring changes in the oceans. You will work closely with colleagues at DTU Space, and with international partners through the ESA Swarm satellite mission. Your primary tasks will be to:
- Use the latest satellite magnetic field measurements to place constraints on ocean processes
- Develop new computational tools for modelling and separating geomagnetic field signals
- Analyse and utilise advanced numerical simulations of ocean dynamics
- Assist with MSc and BSc courses in DTU’s Earth and Space Physics and Engineering programme, including teaching and supervision of BSc and MSc student projects
- You must have experience in analysis and modelling of geomagnetic satellite data
- You must have expertise with computational modelling and inversion methods in python
- You must have in MSc in Mathematical Modelling and Computation, Earth and Space Physics or a related subject
You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.
Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education.
Assessment
The assessment of candidates will be made by Prof. Christopher Finlay.
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. Please see DTU’s salary structure for scientific staff: www.inside.dtu.dk/en/human-resources/during-employment/salary/salary-structures
The period of employment is 3 years.
Starting date is 1. January 2027. The position is a full-time position.
You can read more aboutcareer paths at DTU here.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Prof. Chris Finlay, DTU Space, https://www.dtu.dk/english/person/chris-finlay?id=71741&entity=profile
You can read more about DTU Space at https://www.space.dtu.dk/english.
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU - Moving to Denmark. Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar ” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.
Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than Sunday, 4 October 2026 (23:59 Danish time).
Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:
- A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
- Curriculum vitae
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale
You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it.
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.
About DTU Space
DTU Space is Denmark's largest space research institute and a recognized international institution. With space as the starting point, we develop new technology, conduct research, educate engineers and PhD candidates, and provide advice, innovation and collaboration nationally and internationally.
DTU - For the benefit of society since 1829
DTU is one of Europe's leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level, we create solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and help secure Europe's global leadership in sustainable technological development. Since Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU almost 200 years ago, our mission has remained the same: We develop and create value through the natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. DTU has 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 employees. We work in an international environment and have an inclusive, stimulating, and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.