StepStone

Job Description

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 climate change. 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.

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, “Observation of gravity waves and turbulence” (f/m/d)

The position is offered for three years with a start date no later than 01.10.2024. The salary is according to class EG 13 TV-L.
The position is embedded in the DFG-CRC 181 (trr-energytransfers.de/) “Energy Transfers in Atmosphere and Ocean“. The CRC 181 has the goal to improve our understanding of the energetic coupling of various processes in the atmosphere and ocean and their influences on climate and its variability. The advertised position is part of sub-project W1 “Gravity Wave Parameterisation for the Atmosphere”. The goal of sub-project W1 is the establishment of an energetically consistent approach to gravity-wave parameterisation (GWP) in atmosphere models.


The research focus of the advertised position is the analysis of gravity waves and turbulence from observations in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere. Ground based and rocket soundings as well as satellite data will be used. The observations of GW and turbulence will be a key component for validating traditional parameterizations and novel types developed within the CRC 181. The outcome will be a observation based detailed assessment of the parameterizations developed within the CRC as well as an important contribution to the observational capabilities at IAP.


  • very good Diploma/Master's degree in physics, meteorology, mathematics, or a related field
  • interest in atmospheric dynamics
  • strong background in numerical data analysis
  • good communication skills, ability to work autonomously and self-responsible
  • fluency in English as working language

  • The DFG-CRC 181 offers a comprehensive and structured training for early career researchers. In addition to self-organized activities such as workshops, trainings and a guest program, the successful candidate will have the opportunity, if desired, to pursue international research visits. The consortium conducts an ambitious program to gradually enhance gender equality across all career levels.
  • an attractive working place near the Baltic Sea
  • modern equipment
  • 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
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