Leibniz Institute of Atmospheric Physics

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.

Homepage: https://www.iap-kborn.de/en/home/

At the Leibniz Institute of Atmospheric Physics (IAP), a full-time position (40h/week) in the Department “Optical and Rocket Soundings” is available as PostDoc, LidarCUBE project (f/m/d).

The position is offered with a start date as soon as possible and a term until 31.05.2026. The salary is according to class EG 13 TV-L. 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 (stratosphere, mesosphere, and lower thermosphere). The advertised position is primarily linked to the technological instrument development of transportable lidar systems (light detection and ranging). New instruments and measuring methods are being developed in close collaboration with local industrial partners within the framework of the BMBF-funded project “LidarCUBE”. The project is based on our compact lidar systems (VAHCOLI – Vertical And Horizontal COverage by LIdar). Developments in optics (spectroscopy, laser physics), building, and additive manufacturing are among the areas of activity. Software development (lidar control or data evaluation) is a critical component completing the hardware development.

Your Qualifications / Experience:

• A PhD in physics, mathematics, engineering, computer science, or environmental sciences, or a related discipline, is required
• Basic knowledge and initial experience in programming infrastructure control software, real-time data acquisition, GUI development, image processing or large data handling is required
• Fundamental programming skills and expertise, e.g., Julia, Delphi, C/C++
• Experience with experimental working methods (e.g. spectroscopy, laser physics) is advantageous
• Experience in construction and 3D printing is advantageous
• Willingness to work independently
• Communication skills for presenting research results
• Ability to work in a team for interdisciplinary work groups

What we offer:

• 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

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: 2025-01
  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: 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 Dr. Jan Froh (froh@iap-kborn.de) or inform yourself under www.iap-kborn.de.