Postdoc - Explore new methods for analyzing high resolution seismic- and volcanic signals observed on fiber-optic cables installed in and around Iceland.

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:

• Rapid detection and location of earthquakes during seismic swarms
• Classification of signals in volcanic environments
• Geothermal exploration

The postdoc is part of AI Antenna project.

The starting date is negotiable but could be effective immediately.

Requirements

• PhD in seismology or related geophysical fields
• Experience with machine learning or data science is a plus
• Proven track record of quality, independent research
• Ability to work in teams
• Good verbal and written communication skills in English