Reference number SU 619-1896-12.
Deadline for applications: October 31, 2012.

Project description

Our transdiciplinary research is interested in the relationship between the tectonic evolution of the Earth and climate change. We would be very interested in research combing circulation modelling with geodynamic modelling. One possible project explores mainly through numerical modelling possible scenarios between the strengthening of the Indian monsoon since about 8 Ma, drawing great amounts of moisture from the Arabian Sea into Indochina, and the start of aridification of East Africa since about that time. East African aridification is commonly regarded as the driver for hominid evolution. What is causing this aridification is a matter of controversy. In this project we explore the idea that enhanced uplift of the Himalaya/Tibet orogen caused aridification in East Africa and was thus the fundamental driver for human evolution.

Another project is looking at the northward drift of Australia, successive closing of the Indonesian gateway, redistribution of ocean currents flowing from the Pacific into the Indian ocean and consequence for sea-surface temperatures in the Tasman Sea and associated glacier dynamics and its bearing on mountain building in the Southern Alps of New Zealand.

This post-doc position offers the possibility to work on these tectonics/climate problems and take leadership in designing numerical models and conceptual skills at answering some first-order questions in how major process on Earth are interlinked. The post-doc would join a strong international research environment and has full access to state-of-the-art analytical facilities.

Qualifications

The successful candidate holds a PhD, previous post-doctoral experience from other universities would be most welcome but is not a requirement. We are seeking a highly motivated researcher with genuine interest in interdisciplinary tectonic/climate research. Experience in numerical modelling of climate/tectonics interactions is essential.

Selection criteria

The selection is based on the perceived ability of the applicant to successfully pursue the research. Special emphasis is put on the applicant's knowledge and skills within the subject area, ability to express her/himself verbally and in writing, creativity, initiative and independence, and a capacity for working together with other researchers. The evaluation will be made based on the relevance of publications, past education and experience, the quality and ambition of the independent project work, references, a cover letter motivating the candidate's interest, and interviews.

Terms of employment

The position is a two-year full-time appointment.

Stockholm university strives to be a work place that is free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

More information

For more information, please contact Prof. Uwe Ring, e-mail uwe.ring@geo.su.se.

Union representatives

Anqi Lindblom-Ahlm (Saco-S) and Lisbeth Häggberg (Fackförbundet ST), telephone +46-(0)8-16 2000 (switch board), and Gunnar Stenberg (SEKO), telephone +46-(0)70-316 43 41.

Application

Your application, including CV, transcripts of all university courses with grades, a copy of your university degree, a cover letter motivating your interest for this position, name and contact information of two references, and any other documents (e.g., diploma thesis/"examensarbete") you would like to include should be e-mailed (as pdf) no later than October 31, 2012 to: registrator@su.se.

Please include the reference number SU 619-1896-12 in the subject line of your e-mail.