PhD Student, Plasma-neutral coupling processes (f/m/d)

At the Leibniz Institute of Atmospheric Physics (IAP), a part-time position (75%) in the Department “Radar Remote Sensing” is available as

PhD Student, Plasma-neutral coupling processes (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:

• Develop new processing algorithms to extract E-region irregularities from all SIMONe systems.
• Investigate the connection of E-region irregularities and mesosphere and lower thermosphere (MLT) wind fields.
• Design and conduct experiments with the Jicamarca Incoherent Scatter Radar, including the future Jicamarca 3D capabilities, leveraging its unique location to study plasma-neutral processes in the ionospheric valley region.
• Potentially utilize Direct Numerical Simulations (DNS) to model plasma-neutral instabilities in the MLT/E-region.
• Present and publish your research in scientific meetings and journals, respectively.

Your Qualifications / Experience:

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in physics, engineering, or a related field.
• A strong interest in atmospheric dynamics, ionospheric instabilities, radar techniques, and data processing.
• Solid communication skills and an ability to work independently and responsibly.
• Proficiency in English for collaboration and documentation.

What we offer:

• A vibrant research environment near the beautiful Baltic Sea (German Riviera).
• Access to modern research facilities and tools, alongside collaborative opportunities in international settings.
• Flexible working hours and options for remote work (where applicable).
• Competitive benefits including participation in the German public sector pension scheme (VBL).
• Support for work-life balance, including family-friendly policies and services.
• An opportunity to be part of a renowned institute within the Leibniz Association, known for its commitment to equality, flexibility, and professional growth.

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 modelling 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 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: 2026-07

to:personal(at)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 chau(at)iap-kborn.de.