Postdoc in Communication-Based Seismic Sensing with Optical Fibers
Chalmers Tekniska Högskola AB / Högskolejobb / Göteborg
2025-10-10
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Our modern "connected world" is built on an immense web of fiber-optic cables linking cities, countries, and continents (see, for example, submarinecablemap.com). Beyond transmitting vast amounts of data, this global infrastructure holds an extraordinary potential: it can also serve as a real-time sensor for earthquakes.
In this project, we explore that potential by developing numerical models and signal processing methods to detect and understand seismic events directly from communication signals in optical fibers - paving the way for a new class of communication-based seismic monitoring.
The position is planned to start in January 2026.
About us
At the Department of Electrical Engineering (E2), we conduct internationally recognized research across multiple areas, including information and communication theory, machine learning, and signal processing. We offer a dynamic, supportive, and international research environment with around 150 employees from more than 20 countries. Our strong network of national and international collaborations spans both academia and industry. The working language is English.
You will be part of a strong research team in optical communications, organized within the research center FORCE. The center brings together experts in communications, photonics, and electronics to tackle challenges in optical communications through a cross-disciplinary approach. The collaboration spans from components to networks, and from theoretical analysis to experimental implementation.
Project overview
While today's telecommunication fibers are primarily used for data transmission, we at Chalmers are exploring ways to make them serve a dual purpose - as both data channels and real-time environmental sensors.
In this project, you will contribute to the emerging research field of integrated communication and fiber sensing. Your work will focus on developing advanced numerical models to understand how seismic events affect signal propagation in optical telecom fibers, and designing signal processing methods to detect such events using optical communication transceivers.
The emphasis is on communication-based sensing, rather than specialized sensing systems like distributed acoustic sensing, aiming to establish a solid physics-based foundation for seismic monitoring using existing telecom infrastructure.
Who we are looking for
Mandatory qualifications
• PhD degree in electrical engineering, computer science, applied mathematics, or a closely related field, awarded no more than three years prior to the application deadline*
• Knowledge of nonlinear optical fiber propagation and optical communication systems
• Knowledge of digital communication systems, signal processing, and machine learning
• Proven experience in implementing and simulating optical fiber communication systems (e.g., in MATLAB or Python)
• Strong publication record in leading Q1 journals and top-tier international conferences
• Excellent communication and presentation skills in English
• Independent, curious, and creative mindset
Desirable qualifications
• Additional knowledge or training in geophysics, seismology, or earth sciences
• Familiarity with distributed fiber sensing methods, such as distributed acoustic sensing
Swedish language skills are not required. However, our department offers free Swedish language courses for interested employees.
*The date on your doctoral degree certificate is considered the official date of completion. Exceptions to the three-year eligibility limit may be made for documented circumstances such as parental leave, sick leave, or military service.
What you will do
Your main responsibility will be to conduct cutting-edge research and independently formulate research questions within the project's scope. You will develop scientific concepts, design strategies to address them, and communicate your findings in leading journals and conferences.
You will also have the opportunity to collaborate with other researchers and external partners, as well as mentor M.Sc. and PhD students.
Contract terms
The position is a temporary full-time employment for two years.
The position requires physical presence throughout the entire employment. A valid residence permit must be presented by the start date, otherwise the offer may be withdrawn.
What we offer
• As a postdoc at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.
• A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
• Read more about Sweden's generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.
Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence. We consider equality and inclusion as fundamental aspects of all our activities.
If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.
Application procedure
The application should be written in English be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.
CV
• A comprehensive CV, including a complete list of publications.
• Details of previous teaching and pedagogical experience.
Personal letter (1-2 pages)
• A brief introduction about yourself.
• A summary of your previous research fields and key research outcomes.
• An outline of your future goals and research focus.
Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.
Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Contact details to references will be requested after the interview.
Application deadline: 10 November, 2025
For questions, please contact:
Christian Häger
Assistant Professor, Division of Communications, Antennas, and Optical Networks (E2)
christian.haeger@chalmers.se• 46 31 772 18 09
Ersättning Enligt kollektivavtal
Så ansöker du Sista dag att ansöka är 2025-11-10
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Arbetsgivare Chalmers Tekniska Högskola AB (org.nr 556479-5598)
Jobbnummer 9551467