Tag: atmosphere

Two PhD positions in the Space Research Institute – Graz

Project 1: Development of a High-frequency Electrostatic Gating System for a Next-Generation Ion Mass Spectrometer towards the Saturnian system

The PhD position focusses on the development of a crucial part of a next-generation ion mass spectrometer for a future ESA mission to Saturn’s moon Enceladus. The goal is to improve upon an existing instrument design to achieve much faster and more precise measurements, enabling the high-resolution analysis of complex molecules in the moon’s plume.

The successful candidate will be part of Dr. Gabriel Giono’s research group Onboard Computing in close collaboration with Dr. Ali Varsani at the IWF, and will be embedded in the Young Researcher Program for interdisciplinary Space Science and Planetary research.

Tasks and requirements

  • Review the design of the PICAM electrostatic gate design and understand its limitation.
  • Develop an ultra-fast electrostatic gate system, including theoretical analogue electronics calculation, mechanical consideration for impedance control, and simulation (e.g., LTSpice) to predicts the design’s performances.
  • Develop the driver electronics (i.e., schematics, layout, firmware application), in collaboration with senior engineers of the research group.
  • Prototyping and laboratory tests to evaluate the design performance.
  • Publication in peer-reviewed journals, and presentation in national and international conferences.

The candidate is expected to have a Master degree in Electrical Engineering. Expertise in analogue and digital electronics are expected. Programming experience in C, Python, and/or other languages for embedded system are also recommended. Teamwork skills, a self- driven research attitude, and scientific curiosity are important.

Project 2: Atmospheric modelling of N2-dominated atmospheres on rocky (exo)planets affected by high-energetic events

This project investigates the stability of nitrogen-dominated atmospheres on Earth-like exoplanets by combining laboratory experiments with advanced computer modeling to study how high-energy events cause atmospheric loss. The PhD student will specifically focus on the modeling aspect, using and adapting computational codes to simulate the impact of these processes on a planet’s atmospheric evolution, stability, and detectability.

The successful candidate will be part of Doz. Dr. Peter Woitke’s research group Planet-Forming Disks and Astrochemistry and Doz. Dr. Helmut Lammer ‘s research group Solar System Planetary Physics at the IWF, and will be embedded in the Young Researcher Program for interdisciplinary Space Science and Planetary research.

Tasks and requirements

  • Adaptation and application of our hot particle Monte Carlo code to early Earth and Earth-like exoplanets.
  • Investigation of NOx formation driven by XUV radiation, suprathermal atoms, lightning, and impact-related processes.
  • Integration of laboratory-derived and modelling-based N2 fixation and atmospheric loss rates into our atmospheric evolution model.
  • Parameter studies covering different atmospheric compositions, pressures, stellar activity levels, and planetary conditions.
  • Contribution to spectral/detectability studies of nitrogen-bearing molecules in rocky exoplanet atmospheres.
  • Collaboration with in-house, national, and international project partners.
  • Preparation of peer-reviewed scientific publications and presentation of results at national and international conferences.

The candidate is expected to have a master’s degree in physics, Astronomy, or Earth/Planetary Sciences. Programming experience in FORTRAN-90, Python, or other computer languages is recommended. Teamwork skills, a self- driven research attitude, and scientific curiosity are important.

Application

The application process for 2026 will close at October 31st, 23:59 (CET). After that, no application will be accepted.

The application process has two stages. Stage 1 is an anonymised application form. This round aims to identify potential candidates that fit the offered positions based on their academic and scientific excellence. From the applications submitted, we will compile a list of candidates who will proceed to stage 2 and who will be invited for an online interview.

No formalities are required for stage 1, i.e. don’t send any documents via email. Only for stage 2, we will contact you via email to request two reference letters, a transcript of records, a confirmation of study periods, and diploma certificate(s) if available.

See details for both projects here.

Apply to stage 1 via this link.

PhD in Satellite Data Analysis, Germany

The Satellite Data Analysis group at IAP is looking for a motivated and curious PhD candidate.

At the Leibniz Institute of Atmospheric Physics (IAP), a part-time position (75%) in the “Satellite Data Analysis” working group is available as PhD Student (f/m/d).

The position is initially offered for three years with a start date as soon as possible. The salary is according to class EG 13 TV-L (approx. 43,500 €/year).

Your Tasks: You will conduct research to advance the understanding of vertical coupling processes between the lower and upper atmosphere as part of our team. The role involves investigating how dynamical and chemical processes in the lower atmosphere influence the variability and behavior of the upper atmosphere, supported by the analysis of whole-atmosphere models that span both regions. A central part of the work includes the use of satellite and ground-based observations to characterize vertical coupling mechanisms and their temporal variability. The position also contributes to the planning of future satellite missions, with a focus on optimizing orbit configurations and potential constellation designs to maximize scientific return related to atmospheric variability. Particular emphasis will be placed on understanding variations in neutral density and neutral composition under different geophysical conditions, which have potential impacts on satellite operations.

Your Qualifications / Experience:

  • A master’s degree in physics, engineering, environmental sciences, or a related discipline, is required.
  • Basic knowledge and interest in atmospheric physics
  • Skills in model & satellite data analysis is desired Fundamental programming skills and expertise, e.g., Python, C/C++, Fortran
  • Willingness to work independently and think critically
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to work well in a team and contribute to a diverse and inclusive workforce

What is offered:

  • an attractive workplace near the Baltic Sea
  • stimulating interdisciplinary work environment with including world-leading observations and modeling
  • engagement in an international work environment
  • participation in the company pension scheme (VBL)
  • employment relationship in accordance with the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service of the Federal States (TV-L)
  • flexible working hours and mobile working within the framework of the applicable regulations
  • family office

About the institute: “Our mission is to advance the scientific knowledge of the mesosphere and lower thermosphere by developing and exploiting expertise in atmospheric physics, instrumentation, analysis and modelling to serve emerging societal needs – such as questions regarding increasing atmospheric pollution by space emissions. On the regional level, we closely cooperate with the University of Rostock and are an integral part of the teaching program of the Institute of Physics. Further, we are networked with the research community worldwide. As an institute of the Leibniz Association, we distinguish ourselves as a modern and innovative employer that highly values family friendliness, equality of opportunity and flexibility.”

Interested? Please send your application as one pdf with complete, informative documents, including motivational letter curriculum vitae diploma with indication of final grade copy of certificates, possibly testimonies and references under indication of the keyword: 2026-02 to: personal@iap-kborn.de

More information here.

Institute’s website here.

The advertisement remains open until a suitable person has been appointed. Unfortunately, application and travel costs cannot be covered by the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. By submitting your application, you consent to the processing of your personal data for the purpose of the application process

Post-doc position: Modelling Titan’s atmosphere (University of Amsterdam)

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral (PD) position at the Anton Pannekoek Institute for Astronomy (API) at the University of Amsterdam Netherlands (UvA) to work with assistant professor Alessandra Candian on modelling hydrocarbon evolution on Titan’s atmosphere.

Deadline for applications:
February 2nd, 2025

Application and more information here