PhD Student Position in SAR Interferometry/Tomography ETH Zürich

https://www.jobs.ethz.ch/job/view/JOPG_ethz_z8iB6dwPZotqZhGZ9t

The Earth Observation and Remote Sensing Group, Institute of Environmental Engineering, at ETH Zurich is seeking a PhD student for a research project on Interferometric / Tomographic Techniques in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Remote Sensing to Monitor Surface Displacements starting from autumn/winter 2020/2021.

Job description

The research focuses on investigating methods and algorithms in the context of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) multibaseline interferometry and SAR tomography for space-based monitoring of ground-surface displacements. By using repeat-pass SAR interferometry, deformation measurements at cm/mm level over longer time spans can be obtained for extended areas. SAR interferometry therefore complements point-based measurement techniques such as observations with total station theodolites, Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)-based, or levelling-based measurements of surface displacements.

Mountainous areas with large topographic variations are prone to various geohazards. At the same time, mountainous areas are challenging to monitor with SAR interferometry due to strong and relatively small-scale spatiotemporal variations in the tropospheric conditions, obstructed views (layover and shadow), partial snow or vegetation cover, and other surface processes.

The research builds upon previous work performed in our group and aims at improving the spatiotemporal coverage, the precision, and the automated generation of spaceborne-radar-based maps of surface displacements in mountainous areas.

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate holding a master's degree or a diploma in electrical engineering, geomatics engineering, geophysics, physics or a related field with a background in digital signal processing and/or image processing. Previous experience in SAR signal processing or another field of array signal processing is an asset. The successful candidate has strong analytical skills and programming experience in Matlab, Python, C/C++, or equivalent, and is capable to develop and implement signal-processing algorithms in such a programming language. Fluency in English is required (oral and written), and it is essential that the candidate is willing to work in a multidisciplinary and international research team. Applicants should hold a valid driver's license (European Cat. B).

We are offering a position in an attractive research environment within a young, highly motivated, and international research team.

Vineesh V
Assistant Professor of Geography,
Directorate of Education,
Government of Kerala.
https://www.facebook.com/Applied.Geography
http://geogisgeo.blogspot.com

Comments

Evaluation and Characteristics of Himalayas

Time Period Event / Process Geological Evidence Key Terms & Concepts Late Precambrian – Palaeozoic (>541 Ma – ~250 Ma) India part of Gondwana , north bordered by Cimmerian Superterranes, separated from Eurasia by Paleo-Tethys Ocean . Pan-African granitic intrusions (~500 Ma), unconformity between Ordovician conglomerates & Cambrian sediments. Gondwana, Paleo-Tethys Ocean, Pan-African orogeny, unconformity, granitic intrusions, Cimmerian Superterranes. Early Carboniferous – Early Permian (~359 – 272 Ma) Rifting between India & Cimmerian Superterranes → Neotethys Ocean formation. Rift-related sediments, passive margin sequences. Rifting, Neotethys Ocean, passive continental margin. Norian (210 Ma) – Callovian (160–155 Ma) Gondwana split into East & West; India part of East Gondwana with Australia & Antarctica. Rift basins, oceanic crust formation. Continental breakup, East Gondwana, West Gondwana, oceanic crust. Early Cretaceous (130–125 Ma) India broke fr...

Seismicity and Earthquakes, Isostasy and Gravity

1. Seismicity and Earthquakes in the Indian Subcontinent Key Concept: Seismicity Definition : The occurrence, frequency, and magnitude of earthquakes in a region. In India, seismicity is high due to active tectonic processes . Plate Tectonics 🌏 Indian Plate : Moves northward at about 5 cm/year. Collision with Eurasian Plate : Causes intense crustal deformation , mountain building (Himalayas), and earthquakes. This is an example of a continental-continental collision zone . Seismic Zones of India Classified into Zone II, III, IV, V (Bureau of Indian Standards, BIS). Zone V = highest hazard (e.g., Himalayas, Northeast India). Zone II = lowest hazard (e.g., parts of peninsular India). Earthquake Hazards ⚠️ Himalayas: prone to large shallow-focus earthquakes due to active thrust faulting. Northeast India: complex subduction and strike-slip faults . Examples: 1897 Shillong Earthquake (Magnitude ~8.1) 1950 Assam–Tib...

geostationary and sun-synchronous

Orbital characteristics of Remote sensing satellite geostationary and sun-synchronous Orbits in Remote Sensing Orbit = the path a satellite follows around the Earth. The orbit determines what part of Earth the satellite can see , how often it revisits , and what applications it is good for . Remote sensing satellites mainly use two standard orbits : Geostationary Orbit (GEO) Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO) Geostationary Satellites (GEO) Characteristics Altitude : ~35,786 km above the equator. Period : 24 hours → same as Earth's rotation. Orbit type : Circular, directly above the equator . Appears "stationary" over one fixed point on Earth. Concepts & Terminologies Geosynchronous = orbit period matches Earth's rotation (24h). Geostationary = special type of geosynchronous orbit directly above equator → looks fixed. Continuous coverage : Can monitor the same area all the time. Applications Weather...

Network data model

GIS, a network data model is used to represent and study things that are connected like a web — for example, roads, rivers, railway tracks, water pipes, or electric lines . It focuses on how things are connected and helps us solve problems like finding the best route, the nearest hospital, or where water will flow. Nodes → Points where things meet or end (e.g., road intersections, railway stations, pumping stations). Edges → Lines connecting the nodes (e.g., roads, pipelines, cables). Topology → The "rules" of connection — which node is linked to which edge. Attributes → Extra details about each part (e.g., road speed limit, pipe size, traffic volume). How It Works 🔍 Make the Network Model Start with a map of lines (roads, pipes, rivers) and mark how they connect. Run Analyses Routing → Find the shortest or fastest path. Closest Facility → Find the nearest hospital, petrol station, etc. Service Area → Find how far y...

Pre During and Post Disaster

Disaster management is a structured approach aimed at reducing risks, responding effectively, and ensuring a swift recovery from disasters. It consists of three main phases: Pre-Disaster (Mitigation & Preparedness), During Disaster (Response), and Post-Disaster (Recovery). These phases involve various strategies, policies, and actions to protect lives, property, and the environment. Below is a breakdown of each phase with key concepts, terminologies, and examples. 1. Pre-Disaster Phase (Mitigation and Preparedness) Mitigation: This phase focuses on reducing the severity of a disaster by minimizing risks and vulnerabilities. It involves structural and non-structural measures. Hazard Identification: Recognizing potential natural and human-made hazards (e.g., earthquakes, floods, industrial accidents). Risk Assessment: Evaluating the probability and consequences of disasters using GIS, remote sensing, and historical data. Vulnerability Analysis: Identifying areas and p...

Vineesh V, Geography

Search This Blog