TECHNITECHNICAL DETAILS: SAR images contain information on the state of the sea surface relevant to science and applications. Sea surface wind, oil slicks and mobile fisheries can be detected and characterized particularly in regions where the frequent cloud cover makes optical remote sensing hard to exploit. The envisaged study mainly concerns the possibility of using SAR for monitoring algal blooms in adverse climatic conditions. The project will be carried out in cooperation with ESA/ESRIN (under the supervision of Drs. Steffen Dransfeld and Francesco Sarti) and with the Departamento de Oceanografía Mariscope Chilena (Chile).

FRAMEWORK: SAR images acquired on the South Chile X Region, will be analyzed to correlate the sea surface backscattering with the algal density obtained from MODIS or MERIS observations. The characterization of the current and wind fields and the mapping of fisheries will also be considered. Both scientific and operational/commercial applications are envisaged.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE: Knowledge of the marine environment, electromagnetic wave scattering, SAR remote sensing and computer codes. Given the international environment, a good knowledge of English language is suitable.

OFFERED BENEFITS: The selected candidate will acquire experience in state-of-the-art advanced methodologies in Earth observation, working in a stimulating international context.