Post-Doc in Atmospheric Science

You will be part of the methane research team in the Earth Science Group (ESG) of SRON. The ESG consists of approximately 40 scientists (permanent, postdocs, PhD students) that work on the data processing and interpretation of satellite measurements as well as the definition of new instrumentation and guiding the development. Our team develops methods to detect and identify sources and quantify emissions of various trace gases using satellite data in conjunction with atmospheric modelling and machine learning. Our research aims to address topics with societal relevance. 

Methane is responsible for about a third of global warming, and reducing methane emissions is the most effective way to slow down climate change on the short term. A large fraction of total methane emissions comes from a limited number of super-emitting (point) sources including  solid waste disposal sites. Solid waste is responsible for about 12% of global anthropogenic methane emissions, and with a growing global population it is an important target for emission reductions. You will be working on our TWOS (Targeting Waste emissions Observed from Space) project together with GHGSat and the Global Methane Hub. In this project, we measure methane emissions from 10+ waste sites in the Global South in support of local mitigation activities. Plume detection and emission quantification as well as data interpretation using atmospheric modeling is at the core of the research activities. We also evaluate urban and national-scale emissions using TROPOMI observations with inverse modeling to provide context for these site-level estimates. The project also involves supporting active engagement with NGOs and local partners. Your work will fit in and complement our on-going research on methane (super-emitters) as part of LOW-Methane, UNEP’s IMEO-MARS, World Bank, and CAMS projects. 

We are looking for an ambitious, highly motivated, and result driven scientist with a PhD in  atmospheric sciences or a similar degree, with experience in the interpretation of atmospheric (e.g. satellite, aircraft etc.) observations. Strong programming and data analytics skills are also expected. Experience with research on atmospheric methane, transport modelling and/or flux inversions is considered an asset. A highly developed proficiency in written and oral English is essential and the candidate should be capable of working both independently and in a team.

The position we offer at SRON is full-time for a period of two years with the possibility of a two-year extension in which you will be employed by NWO-I, The Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research Institutes. The salary will be in accordance with NWO salary scale 10, commensurate with your education and experience, be for a maximum of €5.758,- gross per month on a full-time basis. 

NWO has excellent secondary employment conditions such as:

• An end-of-year bonus of 8,33% of the gross yearly salary;
• A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross yearly salary;
• 42 days of vacation leave a year on a full-time basis;
• An excellent pension scheme;
• Options for (additional) personal development;
• Excellent facilities for parental leave;
• Ample training opportunities;
• Possibility of flexible working hours and hybrid working;

SRON's mission is to achieve breakthroughs in international scientific research from space. To this end, SRON develops groundbreaking technology and advanced space instruments. SRON promotes societal applications for space technology. We have a strong international reputation for 'excellence in space research'. The quality and societal relevance of our science is considered ‘world-leading’.