Dear SC Member,

i would like to inform anyone interested of the open PhD position in the project „Geodetic and geodynamic applications of reprocessed GPS, GLONASS and SLR data" at ETH Zurich, Switzerland. Please read the below message for detail information.

Two Ph.D. positions are available in the DFG/SNF project "Geodetic and geodynamic applications of reprocessed GPS, GLONASS and SLR data" in the research group of Prof. Markus Rothacher at the Geodesy and Geodynamic Laboratory.

Both candidates will be working on the project mentioned above in close cooperation with scientists at the Technical Universities of Dresden and Munich and the University of Berne. The goal of the project is the consistent reprocessing of about 15 years of data of a global GPS/GLONASS network and the analysis and interpretation of the resulting time series of geodetic/ geophysical/ atmospheric parameters like station coordinates, GNSS orbits, Earth orientation parameters and ionospheric and tropospheric delays estimates.

The two Ph.D. theses announced here will focus on the following topics:

1) GPS and GLONASS orbit modeling and parameterization: Assess the serious impact of deficiencies in the orbit modeling and parameterization on most geodetic/geophysical parameters. Study possible improvement of the orbit modeling and parameterization making use of the long time series of GPS/GLONASS orbit and solar radiation pressure parameters generated in the project.

2) Earth orientation parameters derived from the global GPS/GLONASS solutions: Study the impact of the combination of GPS and GLONASS data on Earth orientation parameters (EOPs) like nutation rates, length of day and polar motion. Analyse the benefit of long orbit arcs for EOP determination and derive new models for ocean tide and nutation amplitudes. 

Applicants should have a M.Sc. degree or Diploma in geodesy, geosciences, physics, engineering or a related field. The candidates are expected to have experience in GNSS in general and data processing and analysis in particular. Some background in the Bernese GPS Software or a similar package is an advantage for this position. Analytical skills, experience in programming and a solid knowledge of the English language are expected as well. Willingness to work in a team of several researchers and students is expected.

The Ph.D. positions are open from now on with an appointment for 3 years. Selection will start March 15, 2010, and continue until the positions are filled. For more information please contact Prof. Markus Rothacher (markus.rothacher@ethz.ch).

Please apply online at www.jobs.ethz.ch or send two hardcopies of your application letter, CV, short statement of research interests, and names and addresses of two referees to: Jrène Müller-Gantenbein, ETH Zurich, Institute of Geodesy and Photogrammetry,Schafmattstrasse 34, CH-8093 Zurich, Switzerland.

Regards,

Ahmet Sengul

ISPRS SC WEB Responsible