Reykjavik University
Postdoc - Explore new methods for analyzing high resolution seismic- and volcanic signals observed on fiber-optic cables installed in and around Iceland.
🇮🇸Reykjavík, Capital Region, Iceland2 months ago
MidFull Time
We are looking for a Postdoctoral scholar to explore new methods for analyzing high resolution seismic- and volcanic signals observed on fiber-optic cables installed in and around Iceland.
In the last couple of years, we have acquired large datasets from several terrestrial and subsea telecom cables in and around Iceland using fiber-optic sensing. The cables cross geothermal fields, volcanoes, fault zones, the Iceland continental shelf and deep submarine environments. The signals observed are from subterranean, ocean, and atmospheric processes. The sensing technologies are distributed acoustic sensing or DAS (land and ocean) as well as novel instruments using per-span interferometry (sub-sea cable from Iceland to Ireland). The data has already been used to develop and implement a warning system for volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes peninsula.
Machine learning and data science methods, ranging from classical methods such as classification and clustering to modern deep neural networks, are increasingly used in a wide variety of fields to analyze such large, complex data sets. In seismology, they have shown significant potential to automate a variety of processes, such as earthquake detection and identification of subtle patterns.
In this project, we seek to combine these two fields by using machine learning and data science techniques to explore these newly acquired datasets. The project will be defined in collaboration between postdoc and supervisors. This is a unique opportunity for a researcher to participate in developing a project from idea to results. The applicant should take a leading role in defining how to combine the two fields, implementing the ideas, and applying them to the datasets for improved understanding of the geophysical processes observed on the fiber-optic cables.
Examples of machine learning applications could be:
The postdoc is part of AI Antenna project.
The starting date is negotiable but could be effective immediately.
Requirements
Applications should be submitted via the university's online application system and must include CV and cover letter stating why you are interested in this project and how your background might make you the right person for the job. Potential starting date, as well as contact information for two potential references (names, institutional addresses, email addresses, and telephone numbers) will be requested.
For further details, contact Dr. Vala Hjörleifsdóttir, Associate Professor Department of Engineering (valah@ru.is). The position is open until filled; review of applications will start April 7th 2026.
About Reykjavik University (RU)
Reykjavík University has around 3.700 students and 300 faculty and employees in addition to numerous adjunct faculty in two schools: Technology and Social Sciences. We offer a welcoming and stimulating environment in which to work and live. The University is centrally located in Reykjavík, the capital city of Iceland. The role of Reykjavik University is to create and disseminate knowledge to enhance the competitiveness and quality of life for individuals and society, guided by good ethics, sustainability, and responsibility. Education and research at RU are based on strong ties with industry and society. We emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration, international relations, and entrepreneurship.
About Iceland
Iceland is well known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with volcanoes, hot springs, lava fields and glaciers offering a dramatic landscape. It consistently ranks as one of the best places in the world to live. It offers a high quality of life and is one of the safest places in the world, with high gender equality and strong healthcare and social support systems. Reykjavik is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that provides an ideal environment for combining cultural and family activities with an active lifestyle.