Doctoral Researcher in Space Geodesy
Join a DFG-funded research unit at GFZ Potsdam to advance multi-technique space geodesy and ring laser data combination.
Best for:Best for master's graduates in geodesy or geophysics with strong programming skills and an interest in space geodetic techniques.
Overview
The GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences invites applications for a doctoral researcher position focusing on space geodesy within section 1.1 Space Geodetic Techniques and the department of Geodesy. This role is part of the DFG-funded Research Unit RING, which integrates ring laser technology with space geodetic techniques such as VLBI and LLR to study Earth rotation and geophysical parameters. The successful candidate will develop multi-technique combination software, analyze Earth orientation parameters, and improve geodetic observation consistency in collaboration with partner institutions. The position offers a three-year fixed-term contract with part-time employment at 75% in Potsdam, Germany.
What you'll do
- Develop and apply multi-technique combination software for ring laser, LLR, and VLBI observations at the normal equation level
- Determine the full set of five Earth Orientation Parameters from combined data analysis by exploiting individual technique strengths
- Determine accurate results for the Lunar Ephemerides and extragalactic frame tie
- Develop and perform Earth Orientation Parameter predictions considering complementary observational features
- Design and conduct simulations of multiple ring lasers to quantify their effects on target parameters
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree or equivalent in space geodesy, space engineering, geophysics or related fields
Language: English; very good command of spoken and written English
Instruction: English
- Programming skills, preferably in MATLAB, Python, or Fortran
- Understanding of Very Long Baseline Interferometry analysis and its main products such as ICRF and EOP
- Knowledge of software for VLBI signal processing, automatization, batch processing, and simulation
- Very good command of spoken and written English
- Excellent teamwork and communication skills for interdisciplinary collaboration
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-25
Applicants must submit their application through the online application form provided by the institution before the specified deadline. The submission must include a concise letter of motivation and a detailed CV.
- Letter of motivation
- CV
- List of publications
- Grades, transcripts and certificates of master's degree
Contact
Robert Heinkelmann· Scientist
+49 (0) 331-6264-28787
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