With apologies for cross posting
Fully funded PhD studentship at University College London in GPS/GNSS
GPS/GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) is a rapidly developing
scientific, engineering and business field (GNSS industry turnover was $20B in
2007 and is forecast to rise to $330B by 2020). This project is an opportunity
to study for a PhD in the GPS/GNSS field at a world renowned institution (UCL
is currently ranked 4th in the world and is the home to 20 Nobel prize winners).
GPS/GNSS technology relies fundamentally upon timing the transmission and
reception of microwave signals. These signals are generated using ultra-stable
atomic clocks, which operate in both terrestrial and space environments.
Understanding and modelling the behaviour of these clocks is a critical
component in improving the accuracy and reliability of the
navigation/positioning systems. New GNSS constellations are being developed
by Europe (Galileo) and China (COMPASS), and other countries (Japan and
India) are developing space-based augmentation systems to monitor real-time
performance. This area of science and technology is in a rapid growth phase
and highly trained people (to PhD level) are in great demand.
The aim of the studentship is to carry out a systematic study of the evolution
of satellite clock performance and stability of time frame realisation
considering both the American (GPS) and Russian (GLONASS) systems, and to
develop enhanced clock prediction methods by using a more rigorous model
of (a) special and general relativistic effects (utilising precise satellite
to receiver recession speeds and a complete description of the
gravitational potential variations using the GRACE gravity field to degree and
order 90 as well as planetary ephemerides), and (b) thermal loading on the
satellite bus using UCL’s established radiation pressure modelling tools.
The studentship forms part of the iNsight (Innovative Navigation using new
GNSS SIGnals with Hybridised Technologies) project, an EPSRC funded multi-
university and industrial partner project exploiting the availability of new
satellite signals for positioning, navigation and other GPS-type applications.
Requirements: you must have a either an upper 2nd or 1st class degree in an
appropriate science/technology subject (e.g. mathematics, physics,
electrical/electronic engineering). Completing a PhD requires determination and
hard work, as well as passion and intelligence.
Eligibility: this opportunity is open to any EU citizen, the studentship is not
open to non-EU citizens
Stipend: £15,400 per year tax free, for 3.5 years, full UCL fees paid.
Primary supervisor: Prof Marek Ziebart; Secondary supervisor: Dr Paul Groves
How to apply: Send a CV and covering letter (explaining why you want to take
up the studentship) to Marek Ziebart ([log in to unmask]) by e-mail
Closing date: November 30th 2009
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