Sentinel 5 - Payload analysis

SRON, Netherlands Institute for Space Research

Utrecht, The Netherlands

 

Description

 

SRON is considered to be a global leader in the area of earth and space science, due to the space instruments it develops for the satellites of ESA, NASA and JAXA. The EPS (Earth and Planetary Science) division has a vacancy for a Scientist (PostDoc) (number SRON 12-18). ESA is developing five new missions called Sentinels specifically for the operational needs of the GMES program. As part of this program the Sentinel-5 mission is dedicated to monitoring the composition of the atmosphere. Its payload measures the sunlight reflected by the Earth atmosphere in several spectral ranges including the shortwave infrared (SWIR) which is dedicated to determine the atmospheric abundance of Carbon monoxide (CO) and methane (CH4) with high accuracy. Both trace gases are important atmospheric constituents and measurements of their global distribution are needed to improve our understanding of atmospheric chemistry and global warming. For an optimal performance of the SWIR measurements within the financial budget of the mission a dedicated analysis of different instrument concepts is required, which will be performed in close collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA). For this purpose we are looking for a scientist with strong numerical experience who is capable to work in an international team.

 

Requirements

 

For this interesting and challenging project, we are looking for a candidate with a PhD in (astro-)physics or meteorology with strong programming skills (preferably Fortran90) and experience in the fields of radiative transfer modeling and trace gas retrieval. Experience in the field of satellite remote sensing would be a clear asset. Good knowledge of the English language is essential, and the candidate should be capable of working both independently and in a team.

 

More information and applications

 

Employment of this full-time position as a Scientist C at SRON-Utrecht is by NWO and will be for a period of 2 years. The salary will be in accordance with the salary scales of NWO with a maximum of €3.804,- gross per month on a full-time basis (highly depending on education and experience). NWO has good secondary employment conditions such as:

 

- An end of year bonus of 8,33% of the gross yearly salary;

- At least 42 days of vacation leave a year on full-time basis;

- An excellent pension scheme;

- Options for (additional) personal development;

- Excellent facilities for parental leave;

- A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross yearly salary.

 

For further information you can contact dr. J. Landgraf +31(0)88 777 5842. More information about SRON can be found at www.sron.nl Applicants should send a CV and the name(s) and address(es) of reference(s) (incl. phone and e-mail), as well as a short outline of their knowledge and experience preferably via email to jobs@sron.nl or by regular mail to: SRON, Department of Personnel and Organization, Sorbonnelaan 2, 3584 CA Utrecht, The

Netherlands. Please state the vacancy number SRON 12-18 in the subject of your mail, or on letter and envelope. Applications will be accepted until 15 January 2013.