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

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Vineesh V, Geography

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