Leibniz Institute of Atmospheric Physics (IAP), Kühlungsborn, Germany
Closing date not provided

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, AMILIS project (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. 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 AMILIS (Anthropogenic Material Influx Lidar Study) is funded by the German Aerospace Center. 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

The offer
An attractive workplace 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

The IAP
IAP’s 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, IAP closely cooperates with the University of Rostock and is an integral part of the teaching program of the Institute of Physics. Further, IAP is connected with the research community worldwide. As an institute of the Leibniz Association, IAP as employer 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: 2025-09 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
IAP pursues a family-friendly personnel policy and strives 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 visit IAP’s website