Staff Scientist, Ionospheric Physics

DescriptionThe Swedish Institute of Space Physics (IRF) invite applications for a permanent staff scientist position in ionospheric physics. The successful candidate will serve as the scientific investigator and project manager for IRF's network of ionosondes. IRF's ionosondes are located in Uppsala, Lycksele and Kiruna. These systems are based on software-defined radio, offering flexible development opportunities. Technology development for high-resolution automated determination of ionospheric parameters using machine learning is underway within a Nordic collaboration. This offers interesting opportunities for both continued technology development and research. Ionosonde recordings form part of IRF's long-term observatory activities at the Kiruna Atmospheric and Geophysical Observatory (KAGO). The observatory's main task is to provide and archive long, unbroken time series of measurement and recording activities, primarily in the field of space physics. Discussions are underway with the European Space Agency (ESA) to make IRF's ionosonde data available via the ESA Expert Service Centre for Ionospheric Weather.Job DescriptionYou are expected to conduct research both independently and in collaboration with colleagues, as well as in international teams, where you will have access to data from optical instruments and EISCAT's radar systems, for example. Research into the role of the high-latitude ionosphere in space weather, through its interaction with both the magnetosphere and the atmosphere, is of particular interest. You will be responsible for the part of KAGO's budget relating to ionosondes. You will work closely with KAGO's research engineers to maintain and further develop the systems. Your duties will also include applying for external research funding and supervising doctoral and master's students, as well as postdoctoral researchers. You will join a dynamic group of researchers and engineers at IRF who use unique measurement systems to study space weather, ionospheric physics, meteors, space objects and atmospheric dynamics, as well as Arctic high-altitude clouds.Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:research and development of measurement methods using ionosondes and radar systems;scientific operation of ionosondes;analysis of scientific data;publication of research articles.QualificationsApplicants must hold a Ph.D. in space physics, radio science, or a related subject area combined with qualifications deemed equivalent by the employer. A good general knowledge of space physics and radio science is required. Documented experience of machine learning, signal analysis, project management, and/or radar observations would be advantageous. The applicant must be able to work both independently and as part of a team. As we have extensive international collaborations, strong interpersonal and social skills are essential. You must have good verbal and written communication skills in English, and it would be an advantage if you also have Swedish language skills.TermsThe position based at IRF's head office in Kiruna, Sweden and is a permanent appointment. Salaries are set individually. Start date in January 2026 or according to agreement.What we offerWe offer a workplace with flexible working hours, up to seven weeks of vacation per year, comprehensive healthcare including wellness programs, health benefits, and access to an on-site gym.Equality, equal opportunity, and diversity are fundamental principles in our workplace. We work in an equality-integrated manner, meaning that gender and diversity aspects are considered in daily work and all decision-making processes.The application should includeThe application should include a CV and a list of publications, with the publications most relevant to the position marked, a personal letter (maximum one page) describing research interests and relevant experience, and contact information for two professional references.Anställningsform: tillsvidareanställning | Anställningens omfattning: heltid | Antal lediga befattningar: 1 | Sysselsättningsgrad: 100% | Ort: Kiruna | Län: Norrbottens län | Land: Sweden | Referensnummer: 2.2.1-364/25 | Kontakt: Johan Kero +46725813324, Johan Kero +46725813324, | Facklig företrädare: Victoria Cripps, SACO-S +46184715903, Hans Nilsson, SACO-S +46725813339, Stefan Karlsson, ST +46725813321, Stefan Karlsson, ST +46725813321, | Publicerat: 2025-10-24 | Sista ansökningsdag: 2025-11-25