PhD student position for the simulation of specular meteor trails using a full wave scattering model

PhD Studnet Position

The Microwave Division at the Institute of Applied Physics, University of Bern, is seeking candidates for a PhD in Physics or Climate Sciences for a joint NSF-SNSF project. The position is nominally for 3 years. The position is open from May 2026 until it is filled with a successful candidate.
Further information
The IAP Microwave Division has world-wide recognized expertise in microwave remote sensing of the atmosphere. It operates a suite of ground-based instruments in Switzerland and on a campaign base at remote observatories measuring ozone, water vapor, winds, and temperatures. These observations are conducted in collaboration with international partners (e.g. Embry-Riddle University, Daytona Beach, Florida US).
The salary will be determined according to the regulations of the Swiss Science Foundation SNSF. The Canton offers 25 days of holiday per year. Public holidays (e.g. Christmas, New Year, Easter, 1 August, etc.) come besides. The Division is actively seeking to increase the number of women in physics and hence women are strongly encouraged to apply.
About the University of Bern
The University of Bern is located in the heart of Switzerland. The city of Bern is the capital of Switzerland and the canton Bern and has a beautiful historic old town center. The Berner Oberland, with its high Alpine environment, is easily accessible by public transport.

Responsibilities

The PhD candidate will be responsible for developing a module for the University of Bern's digital twin of a specular/transverse scatter meteor radar simulator. This project aims to create a forward model for meteor trail echo profiles in monostatic and forward scatter geometries. It will involve implementing a full wave scattering model along with Fresnel diffraction optics. The forward model will take into account polarization effects related to the meteoroid trajectory and multifrequency trail physics, in order to estimate ambipolar diffusion coefficients. These coefficients will ultimately enhance the accuracy of meteor radar temperature soundings. Additionally, the forward model is intended to be implemented across several multistatic meteor radar orbit systems.
The PhD curriculum will also include experimental work and field campaigns in Chile, as well as at high-altitude research facilities in Switzerland, in collaboration with international partners. Furthermore, it will encompass numerical data analysis and atmospheric simulations.

Requirements and applications

The position requires a Master of Science degree in physics or a closely related field in engineering or environmental sciences. The project seeks candidates with an interest in theoretical physics, Fresnel optics, radar remote sensing, and numerical methods for computer simulations. Experience in instrumentation, laboratory work, and programming languages (such as Matlab or Fortran) is a significant advantage. Interested applicants should submit their curriculum vitae (including professional experience), a one-page motivation letter, the contact details of one reference person, and their Master's level grades to Gunter Stober at gunter.stober@unibe.ch.