The Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert Einstein Institute, AEI) is a world-leading research center specializing in gravitational physics, gravitational-wave detection, and precision laser interferometry. With more than 400 employees across its Hannover and Potsdam locations, AEI plays a key role in several major international space missions. For our Hannover location, we are seeking a motivated:

to support the verification of the LISA Signal Detection Processing Chain, the LISA Phasemeter and the Ground Support Equipment (GSE) used for testing. The LISA mission is a flagship ESA/NASA project designed to detect gravitational waves from space, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to one of the world’s most ambitious scientific endeavors.

Your Duties and Responsibilities

Execute functional and performance tests of the equipment under test according to ECSS standards.

• Set up, operate, and validate test benches, measurement equipment, and GSE.
• Maintain, calibrate, and verify AEI’s GSE and testing infrastructure.
• Analyze test results, document findings, and support troubleshooting.
• Prepare test procedures, verification documents, and test reports.
• Collaborate with system engineering, electronics, software teams, and external partners.
• Support integration and verification campaigns at AEI and partner facilities.
• Ensure compliance with quality and product assurance procedures.

Your Profile

• Master’s degree or equivalent in electrical engineering, physics, systems engineering, or a related technical field.
• Excellent English skills (C1 level minimum); German is an asset but not required.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory equipment and measurement systems.
• Structured, detail-oriented working style and strong analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a technical team.
• Experience with data analysis tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB) is an advantage.
• Familiarity with precision measurement systems or ECSS standards is beneficial but not required.
• Motivation to contribute to a major international space mission.

We Offer

• The opportunity to work on a globally leading space science project.
• A dynamic, international research environment with highly skilled teams.
• Hands-on experience with cutting-edge instrumentation and test facilities.
• Professional development opportunities and room to grow into broader responsibilities.
• Flexible and supportive working conditions within the Max Planck Society.

How to Apply

Are you interested? Then we look forward to receiving your online application (cover letter, CV, university certificates, letter of recommendation and other supporting documents) without a photo. Please upload your complete application documents combined into a single PDF on our application portal .

Questions can be directed to the LISA Program Office ( lisa-program-office@aei.mpg.de ).

The applications received will be considered from January 15th, 2026. The advertisement is valid until the position is filled.

Further information

The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability. The Max-Planck-Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. For more information about our institute, please visit https://www.aei.mpg.de/.