PhD Student, RAISE Project (f/m/div)

Leibniz Institute of Atmospheric Physics

Job advertisement 2025-08

At the Leibniz Institute of Atmospheric Physics (IAP), a part-time position (75%) in the department “Optical and Rocket Soundings” is available as

PhD Student, RAISE Project (f/m/div)

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 (approximately 40 000 €/year). The fixed-term contract is based on § 2 WissZeitVG.

Your tasks:
You will conduct research in the field of experimental atmospheric physics, with a focus on optical remote sensing of the atmosphere up to the edge of space (mesosphere and lower thermosphere [MLT]). The advertised position is primarily linked to the study of different metal atoms in the MLT and their relation to the re-entry of space debris. The project RAISE (Rising Atmospheric Impact of Space Emissions) is funded by the Leibniz Collaborative Excellence program and conducted in cooperation with the Institute of Space Systems at the University of Stuttgart. The position includes setting up a multi-metal lidar and doing regular quantum remote sensing of atoms in the MLT. The lidar will be used for the first dedicated search for atomic species that are so far undetected in the interface of atmosphere and space. The flexible dye laser systems require hands-on work in optics (spectroscopy, laser physics) and software development. Data evaluation is an essential part of the project work to distinguish between natural variability of the observed metals and anthropogenic effects. The project will finally lead to new strategic plans for global observations of the relevant species.

Your qualifications / experience:

• a master's degree in physics, engineering, environmental sciences, or a related discipline is required
• basic knowledge and initial experience with experimental working methods (e.g., spectroscopy, laser physics)
• fundamental programming skills and expertise, e.g., Python, Julia, C/C++
• willingness to work independently and contribute to lidar soundings during nights / weekends in accordance with applicable working laws
• communication skills for presenting research results
• ability to work in a team for interdisciplinary work groups

What we offer:

• an attractive working place near the Baltic Sea
• modern equipment, including world-leading lidars
• 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

Who we are:
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 modeling 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 opportunitym and flexibility.

Interested?
Please send your application as one PDF file with complete, informative documents, including

• motivational letter,
• curriculum vitae,
• educational degree certificates with indication of final grade,
• copy of certificates, possibly testimonies, and references,

under the indication of the keyword 2025-08 to personal@iap-kborn.de.

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.

Equal opportunities:
We pursue a family-friendly personnel policy and strive to increase the proportion of women. Qualified women are therefore explicitly encouraged to apply. People with disabilities are given preference if they have the same qualifications.

Contact:
For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Gerd Baumgarten (baumgarten@iap-kborn.de) or inform yourself under www.iap-kborn.de.