Post-Doctoral Research Fellow

Athabasca University (AU); Town of Athabasca; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A Canadian university in Alberta is seeking a Post Doctoral Researcher to develop methods for geoelectric field estimation and collaborate with the power industry. Candidates must have a PhD in Physics or a related field. The postdoc will pursue publications, access university facilities, and potentially work in multiple Canadian provinces. Strong teamwork and teaching commitment are essential.

Qualifications

• PhD required in a relevant field.
• Experience with data analysis is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Develop methods of geoelectric field estimation.
• Use models to understand ionospheric sources.
• Develop machine learning techniques for geoelectric fields.
• Collect long-period array MT data.
• Collaborate with power industry on GIC models.

Skills

Analyzing magnetotelluric data

Analyzing geomagnetic data

Analyzing geoelectric data

Education

PhD in Physics, Geophysics, Space Physics or related field

Job description

Overview

Athabasca University's Faculty of Science and Technology is recruiting for a Post Doctoral Researcher. This is a term position ending in September 2026.

Responsibilities

1. Develop and improve methods of geoelectric field estimation using physics-based models which incorporate 3-D conductivity and realistic ionospheric sources.
2. Use models and existing ground and satellite-based datasets to understand ionospheric sources and broader space weather conditions that generate anomalously large geoelectric fields
3. Develop machine learning techniques to estimate near-real time geoelectric fields using existing geoelectric and geomagnetic datasets as training datasets
4. Collect and model long-period array MT data in Canada for space weather applications. Potential fieldwork in Alberta, British Columbia and Quebec.
5. Collaborate with power industry to develop GIC models which incorporate AC components to understand conditions for faults and/or cascading failures

The postdoctoral fellow is expected to pursue peer-reviewed publications and present their work at major scientific venues in the domains of space weather and electromagnetic geophysics. The fellow will be encouraged to pursue additional funding through Canadian and international opportunities. The postdoctoral fellow will have access to facilities at the Athabasca University Geophysical Observatory, located 1.5 hours north of Edmonton, AB.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Geophysics, Space Physics or related field
• Experience analyzing magnetotelluric data, geomagnetic data, and/or geoelectric data is an asset.

In line with the new AU strategic plan, Like No Other, and other university plans, including the Nukskahtowin plan, the FST is committed to interdisciplinary approaches to teaching and engaged citizenship. Evidence of teaching excellence is required, and familiarity with open and online education is encouraged. The candidate should demonstrate a strong commitment to teamwork and student success. All educational credentials must be recognized in Canada.

How to Apply

Applicants are asked to submit an application package through the application portal consisting of:

• A letter of application
• Curriculum Vitae
• Names and contact information of two references

Contact Information

For more information regarding the role, please contact Dr. Darcy Cordell, Assistant Professor, Centre for Science at [e-mail]