PhD student in Physical Geography with a focus on groundwater dynamics in subarctic palsa mires.

The Department of Ecology and Environment Sciences at Umeå University is looking for a PhD student in Physical Geography with a focus on groundwater dynamics in subarctic palsa mires.
Start date 2024-08-01 or as agreed. The application deadline is 2024-05-04.

Project description
Ongoing climate change, which is amplified in the Arctic, affects the presence and movement of water in the landscape. Increases in precipitation and the proportion of rain (versus snow) are projected for northern Fennoscandia, as are increases in evapotranspiration and in the occurrence of extreme weather events such as droughts and floods. How these collective changes will affect groundwater and surface water levels in the region is currently unclear. Yet, we do know that groundwater levels and soil moisture have a strong impact on the stability of the permafrost in peatlands containing palsas and peat plateaus – permafrost landforms that are currently thawing in the region. These so called palsa mires store large amounts of carbon, which is vulnerable to being released to the atmosphere if permafrost thaws or groundwater levels change.

In this project, we will investigate how water levels in lakes and wetlands are affected by the climate in northern Fennocandia, with a particular focus on the hydrological dynamics of palsa mires. We will combine field measurements with remote sensing and GIS techniques to better estimate the sensitivity of water levels to climate throughout northern Fennoscandia. The results from this project are intended to provide a better understanding of how groundwater levels in palsa mires respond to changes in climate, making it possible to better predict future changes in permafrost and the carbon cycle in these areas.

The PhD student will investigate variation and changes (in time and space) in lake water and groundwater levels using remote sensing, GIS, and statistical methods. The position also includes responsibility for collecting and analyzing field measurements of water levels in northern Scandinavia. A large part of the work consists of independently formulating research questions, analyzing data, and communicating scientific results in writing.

The position is financed by Umeå University. The main supervisor will be Dr. Ylva Sjöberg, with Ryan Sponseller as assistant supervisor.

Qualifications
To be admitted for studies at third-cycle level the applicant is required to have completed a second-cycle level degree, or completed course requirements of at least 240 credits, of which at least 60 credits are at second-cycle level, or have an equivalent education from abroad, or equivalent qualifications. To fulfil the specific entry requirements to be admitted for studies at third-cycle level within the subject of physical geography, the applicant is required to have completed courses within a first-cycle subject relevant to physical geography comprising at least 120 credits. At least one course at second-cycle level in a subject that is relevant to physical geography shall have been completed, as well an independent piece of work (degree project) with relevant specialization of at least 15 credits. The eligibility requirements must have been met when the position is taken up.

We are looking for a person with an interest in climate, hydrology and spatial analysis, preferably with experience in arctic fieldwork and an academic background in physical geography, earth science, or a similar field. The applicant should also have good ability to write and speak in English, initiative, independence, and good cooperation skills. Strong credentials include solid experience with GIS, remote sensing, programming, hydrological modelling, as well as good knowledge of hydrology and water chemistry. Evaluations will be based on the application and on interviews.

Terms for the employment
The employment is expected to result in a doctoral degree and the main assignment for the doctoral student is thus to be part of the research education, which includes participation in the described research project but also to take relevant courses. Teaching and other departmental work (up to a maximum of 20%) can be included. The employment is limited to four years at full time or up to five years if teaching and other departmental work is performed. The salary is fixed according to the established salary level for doctoral students.

Application
You apply through our recruitment system on May 4th, 2024 at the latest. The application may be written in English or Swedish and should include:

• A short (max 2 pages) description of why you are interested in the position
• CV
• Copy of certificates from higher education
• List of completed university courses and the grades
• Copy of publications/degree thesis
• Contact information of two reference persons

Documents sent electronically should be in MS Word or PDF format. 

Contact
If you have questions regarding the position, please contact Ylva Sjöberg, ylva.sjoberg@umu.se or Ryan Sponseller, ryan.sponseller@umu.se.