Tag: Germany

Two PhD positions at Justus Liebig University – Giessen, Germany

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.

18 PhD positions and 6 postdoc positions in Planetary Habitability

A new Collaborative Research Center (CRC) SFB 1759 on “Habitability as a fundamental planetary process: Towards a paradigm shift away from our perception of the uniqueness of Earth” funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) 
is being established at the Freie Universität Berlin, Germany, starting this Autumn on October 1, 2026.

We are currently hiring 18 Doctoral (75% E13 TV-L) and 6 Postdoctoral Researchers (100% E13 TV-L) within the SFB 1759 for the first funding period of the SFB 1759 (10/2026–06/3030). The starting dates are flexible but funding is limited to 30 June 2030. The regular working time for full (100%) employment is between 39.4 hours (for positions in Berlin) / 39.83 hours per week (Dresden and Bochum). Good English language skills (written and oral) are required. 

The participating institutions are equal opportunity employers and are committed to increasing the proportion of women academics. Consequently, we actively encourage applications by women. Female candidates with equivalent qualifications and academic achievements will be preferentially considered within the framework of the legal possibilities. We also welcome applications from candidates with severe disabilities. Disabled candidates with equivalent qualifications will be preferentially considered, although some restrictions related to accessing laboratory facilities may apply in some projects.

Applications should be written in English and include a cover letter, the names of three (postdoc positions) or two (doctoral positions) referees, CV, copies of degree certificates and transcripts, all combined into a single pdf (max. 10 MB). Positions may have different individual application deadlines, but review of all applications will begin 22 July 2026 and will continue until all positions have been filled.

Full details for each position can be found here. Please indicate which position(s) you are applying for via the reference codes that you can find in the link above and email your application to coord@sfb1759-planetary-habitability.de. Please also consider the more detailed description of the positions including necessary requirements posted on the institutional websites.

Master thesis in Aerospace Medicine (Bioinformatics), Cologne, Germany

The department of Applied Aerospace Biology at the German Aerospace Center (DLR), embedded within the Institute of Aerospace Medicine, offers a position for a highly motivated Master’s student in bioinformatics or computational biology to support ongoing research on molecular adaptations to altered gravity using proteomic datasets from spaceflight and ground-based experiments.

CyMoN (Cytoskeletal dynamics of Motor Neurons) investigates how altered gravity affects the function and maintenance of human iPSC-derived motor neurons. Within this framework, the project
applies proteomics and bioinformatic analyses to characterize gravity-dependent molecular adaptations in neuronal systems. These insights will advance understanding of neuromuscular deficits in astronauts and contribute to terrestrial models of neurodegeneration and muscle atrophy.

The bioinformatics student should possess a deep interest in leveraging computational tools to analyze biological datasets derived from unique spaceflight environments. Ideal candidates will have earned a a B.Sc. or equivalent degree in bioinformatics, computational biology or a related discipline.

Interested candidates should send their application (letter of motivation, academic CV, contact details for references) directly by email to Dr. Christian Liemersdorf, Department Head Applied Aerospace Biology (Christian.Liemersdorf@dlr.de).

Salary: The Master’s Student position is remunerated.
Start: Earliest April 2026

For more information, click here.

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