Doctoral Researcher, Space Physics, Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory

University of Oulu; Oulu; On-site; EUR 29,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Wellness benefit (ePassi)

Buddy Programme

Spouse Network

Job summary

University of Oulu is seeking a Doctoral Researcher for the Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory to pursue postgraduate studies and advance a doctoral thesis within the SafeEarth programme. You will analyse auroral imaging data and geophysical observations, study how space weather impacts near‑Earth infrastructure, and contribute to new scientific understanding of natural hazards.

The role is based at the Linnanmaa campus in Oulu, Finland, with opportunities to publish, present at conferences, and

Qualifications

• Degree in space physics, physics, astronomy, atmospheric sciences, data science, geophysics, or related field.
• Meet UniOGS admission requirements by start of doctoral studies.
• Strong interest in space weather, upper atmosphere, auroral phenomena, or geomagnetic disturbances.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent scientific research and complete doctoral studies.
• Experience with scientific data analysis and programming (Python preferred).
• Good written and spoken English communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Analyse observations from SGO networks, focusing on auroral imaging data and related geophysical observations.
• Study physical processes linking aurora and space weather impacts in near‑Earth environment.
• Publish results in international journals and present at conferences.
• Collaborate with SafeEarth consortium and participate in research group activities.

Skills

Python programming

Independent research

English communication

Team collaboration

Education

PhD eligibility UniOGS

Background in space physics/atmospheric sciences

Tools

Python

Linux

Raspberry Pi

Geophysical data analysis software

Job description

About the job

Doctoral Researcher to join us at the Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory (SGO), University of Oulu. SGO operates internationally recognized geophysical measurement networks and research infrastructures, supporting research on space weather, the near-Earth environment, and Arctic geophysics. The position is part of the SafeEarth research programme, funded by the Research Council of Finland. The doctoral researcher will contribute to improved understanding of the space weather phenomena and their impacts on critical technological infrastructure and society.

Space weather driven by solar activity can produce disturbances in the Earth's upper atmosphere and magnetic environment, creating natural hazards that are particularly pronounced at high latitudes. Understanding these processes is essential for improving resilience against space weather impacts on society and infrastructure.

As a doctoral researcher, you will pursue postgraduate studies leading to a doctoral degree while advancing your own doctoral thesis within the SafeEarth research programme. The successful candidate will be based at the University of Oulu's Linnanmaa campus in Oulu, Finland. In this position, you will be expected to:

• analyse observations from the Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory's measurement networks, with a particular focus on auroral imaging data and related geophysical observations
• study the physical processes linking aurora and space weather impacts in the near-Earth environment
• contribute to the development of new scientific understanding of natural hazards associated with space weather and their implications for society
• publish research results in international scientific journals and present your work at conferences
• collaborate with researchers across the multidisciplinary SafeEarth consortium and participate in other activities of the research group

What we offer

We offer you a supportive academic environment in a community of committed scholars with whom you can share your expertise and grow as an expert.

Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture, and well-being.

Development and career options of the big organization.

Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance.

Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and your close ones in settling into Oulu.

We have an HR Excellence in Research -quality label, which is a recognition awarded by the European Commission for the development of researchers’ working conditions and careers.

Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, an excellent education system, and a competitive economy.

Who are you?

• A degree in space physics, physics, astronomy, atmospheric sciences, data science, geophysics, or another relevant field.
• Applicants should meet the admission requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS) by the beginning of their doctoral studies.
• A strong interest in space weather, the upper atmosphere, auroral phenomena, or geomagnetic disturbances.
• Demonstrated ability and motivation to conduct independent scientific research and complete doctoral studies.
• Experience with scientific data analysis and programming, preferably in Python.
• Good written and spoken English communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary and international research environment.
• You must apply for the right to study for a doctoral degree at the beginning of your employment in accordance with the requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS).
• Previous research experience in space physics, geophysics, atmospheric science, astronomy, or related fields.
• Familiarity with optical instrumentation and imaging techniques.
• Experience with Linux-based systems, embedded systems, or Raspberry Pi platforms.
• Experience presenting scientific results through publications, theses, conference presentations, or similar activities.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including people of different ages, genders, languages, cultures, and minority communities.

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 3 years as of 01.01.2027 or as soon as possible thereafter. The selected candidate is expected to complete their doctoral degree within this period. The salary will be based on the levels 2-4 of the demand level chart for teaching and research staff of Finnish universities. In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance will be paid (a maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). The starting gross salary will be approx. 2600-3200 € per month (before taxes). A trial period of 6 months is applied to the position.

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Dogacan Ozturk, Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory, [e-mail].