2 PhD positions in Seismology at LMU, Munich
The use of ocean-generated seismic noise has dramatically increased in recent years. Noise correlations make it possible to exploit the vast amounts of background noise recorded continuously around the world. In a way, they allow us to exploit seismic noise to perform earthquake-free seismology. This has resulted in an explosion in the number of high-resolution tomographic images in the past decade. Noise correlations have also been used successfully to monitor wave speed changes over time in potentially dangerous structures such as landslides, volcanoes and active fault zones. Most of the applications so far have concentrated on the vertical component records, but recently more interest arises to include the information contained in the horizontal components.
One of the major unknowns in this emerging field of seismology is the origin of the microseismic Love waves generated by the oceans. The two PhD projects will aim to understand the content of horizontal seismic motion in ambient noise, and how it can be used to enhance results from noise correlation methods in order to better understand the underlying processes.
PhD 1 -- Data-driven approach to characterization of Love wave sources
Aim: Using seismic data from multiple arrays, characterize spatial, temporal and spectral behavior of Love waves in ambient noise. This will be contrasted to Rayleigh waves sources. Better constraints on the location and behavior of noise sources will help us understand the ocean { solid Earth interaction processes driving them.
PhD 2 -- Simulation of Love wave generation and propagation
Aim: Implement 3D simulation of expected source mechanisms using realistic bathymetry and velocity models for area of interest. Simulate noise sources using wave-wave interaction data, and compare to real noise records.
Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, LMU Munich
The Geophysics section of the LMU in Munich offers excellent working conditions, along with training in parallel computing, numerical methods, data processing and programming. The computational environment available to host strongly numerical based projects is unparalleled in Germany. The project is set in the context of international collaboration with partners in Ireland and France, including regular research visits.
Requirements
We are seeking highly motivated candidates with excellent academic records from a wide range of backgrounds. They must hold a MSc or equivalent in geophysics, physics, applied mathematics, computational sciences or related fields. Exposure to time series analysis, numerical methods, partial differential equations and programming (Python, Matlab, Fortran) would be advantageous. Some familiarity with computer programming and a solid knowledge of English are mandatory.
The two PhD positions are fully funded by the DFG Emmy Noether programme. Both appointments will begin as soon as possible and will be for three years. Review of applications will start immediately and continue until suitable candidates are found.
Application Procedure
For more information, please contact us. Applicants should send a CV along with the names and complete contact information of two references to:
Dr. Celine Hadziioannou
Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences
Theresienstrasse 41
80333 Munich - Germany
The LMU is an equal opportunity employer. The University intends to enhance the diversity of its faculty members, and therefore strongly encourages applications from female candidates. Furthermore, disabled candidates with essentially equal qualifications will be given preference.
