Researcher Position – SOLAR-Az Project

Project Overview

The SOLAR-Az project aims to establish a cutting-edge solar activity monitoring infrastructure in the Azores Archipelago, integrating it into the global e-CALLISTO network. The project will deploy new-generation spectrometers and antennas to fill the observational gap over the North Atlantic, enhancing global space weather forecasting. It is supported by the RIS3 Azores strategy and funded under the FRCT Scientific Employment Stimulus Program (contract ACORES2030-FEDER-01909900).

Host Institution
Associação RAEGE Açores – Rede Atlântica de Estações Geodinâmicas e Espaciais (RAEGE-Az)
São Pedro, Santa Maria Island, Azores, Portugal

Position Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated Researcher in Solar Radio Physics and Space Weather. The successful candidate will contribute to the development, testing, and operation of solar monitoring stations, real-time data pipelines, and AI-based analysis tools. The position involves collaboration with national and international partners and includes responsibilities in scientific research, outreach, and training. Some minor travel will be needed between islands and internationally.

Main Responsibilities

  • Contribute to the installation, calibration, and validation of radio monitoring equipment.

  • Develop and test real-time data pipelines and deep learning algorithms for Solar Radio Burst (SRB) detection and classificattion.

  • Lead scientific analysis of SRB data and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.

  • Collaborate with project and external partner institutions (e.g., TRISOLARIS, AIR Centre, FHNW, UAH).

  • Support outreach and training activities, including mentoring students and hosting workshops.

  • Assist with technical deliverables and project reporting.

Required Qualifications

  • PhD in Astrophysics, Radio Astronomy, Space Physics, or a related field.

  • Experience with solar radio observations, space weather, or signal processing.

  • Strong programming skills in Python, (SSW-)IDL or similar languages.

  • English Proficiency (C1), Portuguese will be valued.

  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams.

Desirable Skills

  • Experience with e-CALLISTO instruments or Software-Defined Radios (SDRs).

  • Familiarity with machine learning for astrophysical data analysis.

  • Knowledge of solar radio data pipelines and event classification.

  • Interest in science communication and regional capacity building.

Contract Details

  • Duration: 36 Months

  • Expected start: As soon as possible in the current year of 2025

  • Remuneration: According to level 33 of “Tabela remuneratória única da administração pública”.

  • Workplace: RAEGE-Az, Santa Maria Island, Portugal

Application Process

Candidates must submit the following documents:

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) with complete publication list

  • Motivation Letter

  • Two reference letters

  • Copy of PhD certificate

Application

Applications should be submitted via email to [email protected], with the subject line: “SOLAR-Az Pos-Doc” and include all required documentation.

This is an open position until being fulfilled.

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