The Institute of Applied Physics (IAP)
and the Center for Space and Habitability (CSH) of the University of
Bern in Switzerland have an open PhD student position for modelling of
the ozone layer of exoplanets, Venus, and Mars. Ozone is regarded as a
biomarker of habitable planets. Biotic processes on the Earth produce an
oxygen-rich atmosphere with an ozone layer (still vulnerable to
catalytic ozone depletion). On the other hand, a high probability exist
for earth-like planets with oxygen-rich atmospheres as abiotic leftovers
of dense H2O-rich protoatmospheres. You investigate
questions like:
· Which planets can have an ozone layer?
· Spectral signatures of planets with
ozone layer?
· Can we distinguish between biotic and
abiotic origin of an ozone layer?
The PhD thesis starts with modelling of
ozone of the Martian atmosphere. Photochemistry and radiative transfer
are studied with models of various complexity. The results for the ozone
distribution of Mars are compared to observations. Then you generalize
your findings for modelling of ozone layers of exoplanets. The IAP has an excellent
reputation in atmospheric remote sensing and long-term monitoring of
ozone and water vapour in the lower and middle atmosphere. We utilize
chemistry-climate and weather models for study of stratospheric ozone
variations. The PhD thesis is carried out at IAP (University of Bern)
and is supervised by Klemens Hocke, Niklaus Kämpfer, Peter Wurz
(University of Bern), and Helmut Lammer (Space Research Institute,
Graz). The interdisciplinary tasks of the project require a PhD student
with experience and passion for:
· Modelling, Programming, Atmospheric
Chemistry, Radiative Transfer
· Planets and Exoplanets
· Understanding of
Atmospheric Processes
Further you have a Master or Diploma
degree in physics, atmospheric sciences or a related field. You like
international co-operations and team work. If you are interested please
send an application by email containing your Curriculum Vitae, statement
of interest (1 page), 2-3 references or names of referees (with
address), copies of your thesis and certificates. Applications are
considered until position is filled.
PD Dr. Klemens Hocke
Institute of Applied Physics
University of Bern
Sidlerstrasse 5
3012 Bern, Switzerland
E-mail: klemens.hocke@iap.unibe.ch
http://www.csh.unibe.c
