StepStone

Jobbeschreibung

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, Rocket-borne density and turbulence measurements in the upper atmosphere, project: DEFINE (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. The fixed-term contract is based on § 2 WissZeitVG.


The task of the PhD student will be to participate in the development of new rocket-borne sensors, calibrate them in the laboratory, advise undergraduate students, prepare the instruments for and control them during rocket field campaigns in Northern Scandinavia, and process the data. Besides the specific topics of our Department, the students are expected to be in close interaction with colleagues and students from the other two IAP Departments, for example, via cross-departmental activities.


  • A master's degree in physics, mathematics, engineering, or environmental sciences, or a related discipline, is required.
  • Basic knowledge and initial experience with experimental working methods in vacuum or plasma physics.
  • Fundamental programming skills and expertise, e.g., Python, C/C++.
  • Willingness to work independently
  • Communication skills for presenting research results
  • Ability to work in a team for interdisciplinary work groups.

  • 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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