Postdoctoral Researcher in Remote Sensing and Coastal Processes

  • Dublin
  • €42,783 per year
  • Temporary
  • Full-time
  • 19 days ago
Offer DescriptionResearch CentreSchool of History and GeographyPost titlePostdoctoral Researcher in Remote Sensing and Coastal ProcessesLevel on FrameworkLevel 1Post duration24 Month Fixed Term ContractDublin City UniversityDublin City University (DCU) is a leading innovative European University. It is proud to be one of the world's leading Young Universities and is among the top 2% globally. DCU is known as Ireland's University of Impact, with a mission to 'transform lives and societies' and focuses on addressing global challenges in collaboration with key national and international partners and stakeholders.DCU has over 20,000 students in five faculties spread across three academic campuses in the Glasnevin-Drumcondra area of North Dublin. Thanks to its innovative approach to teaching and learning, the University offers a 'transformative student experience' that helps to develop highly sought-after graduates. DCU is currently No. 1 in Ireland for Graduate Employment Rate, and for graduate income (CSO).DCU is a research-intensive University and is home to a number of SFI-funded Research Centres. The University participates in a range of European and international research partnerships. DCU is also the leading Irish university in the area of technology transfer as reflected by licensing of intellectual property.As a 'People First' institution, DCU is committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion - a University that helps staff and students to thrive. The University is a leader in terms of its work to increase access to education, and is placed in the world's Top 10 for reducing inequalities in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings.Research Career FrameworkAs part of this role the researcher will be required to participate in the DCU Research Career Framework. This framework is designed to provide significant professional development opportunities to Researchers and offer the best opportunities in terms of a wider career path.Background & RoleCliffs act as natural barriers against coastal hazards such as storm surge flooding and extreme waves and runup; but they can also be undercut and fail as a result of hydrodynamic forcing. Rockfalls and landslides from eroding cliffs represent a significant hazard to humans and infrastructure around Ireland's rocky coasts. Understanding the complex dynamics of cliff erosion is essential for assessing and mitigating coastal hazards and for understanding future response of these systems to climate change and sea level rise. Despite their ubiquity along Ireland's coastline, rates of rock cliff recession are largely unknown, and their failure mechanics remain poorly understood. The STRATA Project aims to address this knowledge gap by employing multiple complementary approaches to quantify cliff erosion rates at representative locations. These data will be used as part of a comprehensive analysis of the drivers of coastal cliff recession on Ireland's rocky shores including waves and rock mass properties.The successful candidate will play a key role in meeting the following project objectives:(1) Quantification cliff recession at different temporal and spatial scales using Persistent Scatterer Interferometry Synthetic Aperture Radar (PS-InSAR) and Structure from Motion (SfM) photogrammetry.(2) Numerical analysis of the main factors driving coastal cliff erosion at selected sites through characterisation of rock mass properties and process-based modelling.(3) Quantification of uncertainties in the analysis of cliff evolution rates and driving processes.Principal Duties and Responsibilities
  • Apply advanced knowledge in remote sensing and numerical modelling techniques to
address research questions and objectives.
  • Independently design and execute fieldwork activities, including the collection of data
using Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and deployment of scientific instruments.
  • Ensure adherence to safety protocols and regulations during fieldwork operations to
minimise risks and ensure data integrity.
  • Implement numerical models using programming languages such as Python, MATLAB, or
R to simulate environmental processes accurately.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members to integrate field observations, remote
sensing data and modelling outputs effectively.
  • Communicate research findings through high-quality scientific publications and
presentations suitable for dissemination in peer-reviewed journals and conferences.
  • Demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills in conveying complex
scientific concepts to diverse audiences.
  • Work collaboratively with other team members and stakeholders to achieve project goals
and milestones effectively.
  • Contribute actively to team discussions, meetings, and project planning sessions, offering
insights and expertise to advance research objectives.
  • Undertake additional tasks and responsibilities as they arise, as pertinent to the evolving
needs and requirements of the projectMinimum Criteria
  • A Ph.D. in a relevant field (e.g., Remote Sensing, Earth Sciences, Geography) with a strong background in remote sensing.
Desirable Criteria
  • Proven ability to design and conduct fieldwork, including data collection and instrument deployment.
  • Demonstrated expertise in processing and analysing remote sensing data using software such as ENVI, ArcGIS, QGIS, or similar.
  • Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in numerical modelling (e.g., Python, MATLAB, R).
  • Experience with numerical modelling techniques applicable to environmental systems (e.g. wave modelling).
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of scientific publications and presentations commensurate with career stage.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
  • Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.
Candidates will be assessed on the following competencies:Discipline knowledge and Research skills - Demonstrates knowledge of a research discipline and the ability to conduct a specific programme of research within that discipline.Understanding the Research Environment - Demonstrates an awareness of the research environment (for example funding bodies) and the ability to contribute to grant applications.Communicating Research - Demonstrates the ability to communicate their research with their peers and the wider research community (for example presenting at conferences and publishing research in relevant journals) and the potential to teach and tutor students.Managing & Leadership skills - Demonstrates the potential to manage a research project including the supervision of undergraduate students.Essential TrainingThe postholder will be required to undertake the following essential compliance training: Orientation, Health & Safety, Data Protection (GDPR) and all Cyber Security Awareness Training. Other training may need to be undertaken when required.Salary Scale: IUA Postdoctoral Researcher Salary Scale: Point 1 - €42,783Appointment will be commensurate with qualifications and experience and in line with current Government pay policy.Closing date: Friday 26th April 2024Pilot Remote Working PolicyDCU is currently operating a pilotremote working policy for staff which consists of 1 day a week and 2 days a week for a period of up to 21 weeks per year. Such weeks are determined by the Head of each Unit in conjunction with HR and will take cognisance of the academic calendar, business needs and the service provision of the particular area. The terms of the pilot remote working policy will apply.For more information on DCU and benefits, please visitInformal Enquiries in relation to this role should be directed to:Title. Dr. Niamh Cullen, Unit or Department, Dublin City University.Email:Please do not send applications to this email address, instead apply as described below.Application Procedure:Please submit your application through the online system. In order to be considered for the role to which you are applying for, you must upload:1) Curriculum Vitae2) Cover Letter3) Completed application form (blank forms can be downloaded from the Vacancy Detail tab on the menu on the left hand side).Please note, if all items are not uploaded, the application will be deemed incomplete, and will not be processed.Dublin City University is an equal opportunities employer. In line with the Employment Equality Acts 1998 - 2015, the University is committed to equality of treatment for all those who engage with its recruitment, selection and appointment processes. The University's Athena SWAN Bronze Award signifies the University's commitment to promoting gender equality and addressing any gender pay gaps. Information on a range of university policies aimed at creating a supportive and flexible work environment are available in theRequirementsResearch Field Other Education Level PhD or equivalentAdditional InformationWork Location(s)Number of offers available 1 Company/Institute Dublin City University Country Ireland GeofieldWhere to apply WebsiteContact CityDublin WebsiteStreetGlasnevin Postal CodeDublin 9STATUS: EXPIRED

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