The MANILA OBSERVATORY is a Jesuit scientific research institution with research work in the fields of atmospheric and earth science in the Philippines and the Southeast Asian region. It advocates a science-based approach to sustainable development and poverty reduction through its principal focus on the areas of climate change and disaster science.
Project Title: Equatorial Plasma Bubbles Over Manila
Research Laboratory: Solid Earth Dynamics and Upper Atmosphere Dynamics (SED-UAD) Laboratory
Employment Type: Full-Time
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
In this project, we will study the dynamics of the equatorial ionosphere at 120ºE longitude, between Taiwan and the Philippines. The study will focus on observing the formation of Equatorial Plasma Depletions, which lead to ionospheric plasma structuring that causes scintillation of radio waves passing through this region of the ionosphere. Scintillation adversely affects the performance of transionospheric radio communications and navigation, and changes the propagation of High Frequency radio waves. Better measurements of the equatorial ionosphere can improve the numerical modeling of this region of the ionosphere, possibly leading to a predictive capability. This is a cooperative international research project including National Central University in Taiwan and Manila Observatory in the Philippines. The Principal Investigator is Dr. Justin Mabie of the University of Colorado with Mr. Clint Bennett at the Sub-PI. The project is funded by the Office of Naval Research. The project will involve repairing and operating the VIPIR ionosonde at Manila Observatory, writing scientific research papers and participating in conferences in the US.
TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provide assistance in research, outputs and activities by conducting literature reviews, data gathering, model simulations, as well as data analysis
- Assist in the preparation of technical and scientific presentation(s), poster(s) and report(s)
- Compile and maintain data and files in an organized directory for easy retrieval and reference
- Participate in scientific conferences, and other related activities, including seminars, and workshops
- Provide administrative/logistical support for scientific/research events organized by the Project Leader, which may include but are not limited to conferences and seminars, as needed
- Write scientific journal articles for publication
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor of Science degree in Physics, Computer Science, Engineering or Mathematics. Having a masters degree in Science is preferred. Plans for or currently enrolled for a Masters of Phd degree in Physics is a plus.
- Experience in data analysis and programming and scripting languages.
- Proficient in oral and written communication, particularly in preparing technical scientific reports.
- Capable of handling coordinative and administrative tasks systematically, with focus and due diligence.
- Works well with a team with good organizational and interpersonal skills.
- Proficient in Electronics and Instrumentation.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
All interested applicants must submit the following:
- An Application Letter addressed to Fr. Jose Ramon T. Villarin, SJ, Executive Director of the Manila Observatory
- Curriculum Vitae with three professional work references (including their emails and contact numbers)
- Transcript of Records and recent passport size photograph
Please submit the required documents via e-mail to hr@observatory.ph, with “Applicant- Research Assistant” as subject. Deadline for the submission of applications is on 15 January 2022.