Position 1: Experimental Space Physics and Astrochemistry
OREOcube and Exocube are experiments selected by the European Space Agency (ESA) for the ExoBio platform on the exterior of the International Space Station (ISS). The experiments investigate organic molecules, potential biosignatures and biological systems under real space conditions. They combine time-resolved in-situ measurements on the ISS with synchronized Ground Reference Experiments (GREM) and detailed post-flight analyses. OREOcube primarily uses UV-Vis spectroscopy, while Exocube additionally employs infrared spectroscopy and complementary analytical approaches. Their combined scientific investigation enables the study of photochemical, radiation-induced and molecular changes under space conditions.
Tasks
- Preparation and physicochemical characterization of organic and mineral samples within OREOcube and Exocube
- Scientific testing and verification and participation in flight-sample integration
- Preparation and performance of Ground Reference Experiments (GREM)
- Analysis and scientific interpretation of UV-Vis and IR/FTIR spectroscopic data from ISS in-situ measurements, Ground Reference Experiments and complementary laboratory studies
- Post-flight analysis of returned samples
- Scientific documentation of results and preparation of publications, presentations and project reports
- Collaboration with international scientific partners as well as ESA, DLR and industrial partners
Qualifications
- Completed Master’s or equivalent university degree in physics, astrophysics, physical chemistry or a related natural-science discipline
- Experience in experimental laboratory work and scientific data analysis
- Knowledge of optical and vibrational spectroscopy, particularly UV-Vis and/or IR/FTIR spectroscopy, is an advantage
- Programming and data-analysis skills, e.g. in Python, MATLAB or comparable environments, are an advantage
- Very good command of English
- Ability to work independently, systematically and carefully
- Strong teamwork and communication skills and an interest in interdisciplinary and international collaboration
- Willingness to learn new experimental and analytical methods
Position 2: Experimental Space Biology and Biophysics
Exocube is an experiment selected by the European Space Agency (ESA) for the ExoBio platform on the exterior of the International Space Station (ISS). The experiment investigates biological and molecular systems under real space and radiation conditions. A major focus is the characterization of activation, growth, stress responses and survival of selected microorganisms. Microfluidic systems for controlled rehydration, activation and fixation of biological samples are combined with in-situ fluorescence and absorbance measurements. The ISS measurements are complemented by synchronized Ground Reference Experiments (GREM) and microbiological, biophysical and additional analytical post-flight studies.
Tasks
- Cultivation, preparation and characterization of microbial and biological samples within Exocube
- Scientific testing and verification and participation in flight-sample integration
- Preparation and performance of microfluidic experiments and Ground Reference Experiments (GREM)
- Analysis and scientific interpretation of fluorescence, absorbance and other in-situ data acquired during the ISS mission
- Microbiological, biophysical and complementary analytical post-flight studies of returned samples
- Scientific documentation of results and preparation of publications, presentations and project reports
- Collaboration with international scientific partners as well as ESA, DLR and industrial partners.
Qualifications
- Completed Master’s or equivalent university degree in biology, microbiology, biophysics, biotechnology or a related natural-science discipline
- Experience in experimental laboratory work with biological or microbial samples
- Good knowledge of microbiological methods and practical experience in the cultivation of microorganisms
- Experience with fluorescence, absorbance or comparable optical measurement techniques
- Experience with microfluidic systems or biological stress and exposure experiments is an advantage
- Experience in scientific data analysis; programming skills, e.g. in Python, MATLAB or comparable environments, are an advantage
- Very good command of English
- Ability to work independently, systematically and carefully
- Strong teamwork and communication skills and an interest in interdisciplinary and international collaboration
- Willingness to learn new experimental and analytical methods
Application
The application deadline for both positions will close on November 3rd, 23:59.
Click on the following links for details on Position 1 and Position 2.
