Technical University of Darmstadt, Institute for Applied Geosciences

The Institute of Applied Geosciences (IAG) at the Technical University of Darmstadt is a dynamic research hub at the intersection of Earth sciences, engineering, and sustainability. Our mission is to advance the understanding and responsible use of geological systems in support of the energy transition and environmental protection.
PhD candidates at the IAG work in an interdisciplinary environment with close collaboration across engineering and natural sciences. We emphasize both fundamental research and its translation into practical, real-world solutions. Our modern laboratories and field facilities enable innovative experimental and numerical investigations.
Doctoral researchers benefit from supervision by experienced scientists and integration into active research projects. We offer opportunities to publish in leading journals and present at international conferences.
As part of TU Darmstadt, we are embedded in a vibrant academic community with access to excellent research infrastructure. We value curiosity, creativity, and commitment to addressing global environmental and energy challenges. Interdisciplinary collaboration and teamwork are core principles of our scientific culture.
Our location in the Rhine-Main metropolitan region provides unique access to academic, industrial, and field research opportunities. We invite motivated and passionate candidates to join us in shaping the future of applied geosciences through doctoral research.

Homepage: https://www.geo.tu-darmstadt.de/atmosaerosol/fachgebiet_atmosaerosol/index.en.jsp

The DUSTIMPACT project seeks to advance our understanding of atmospheric mineral dust and its significant impacts on the Earth’s climate system. Specifically, it aims to quantify the particle size distribution, shape and mixing state, mineralogical composition as well as optical properties and radiative effects of Saharan dust in the key outflow regions. In particular we will assess the largest particle properties, which have hardly been considered to date. These dust properties play a crucial role in determining the aerosol’s impact on solar and terrestrial radiation, and consequently, its contribution to climate variability. By combining cutting-edge and novel measurements with advanced modeling, the project addresses critical uncertainties surrounding dust transport, the resulting atmospheric interactions, and its broader climate impact.

The successful candidate will work in the subproject

New Synergistic Observations for Enhanced Understanding of Saharan DUST Outflow PROperties (DUSTPRO).

DUSTPRO is dedicated to detailed measurements of dust properties using established methods (e.g., size spectrometry, filter collection with electron microscopy) as well as innovative approaches (e.g., holography). The candidate will carry out field measurements with existing instrumentation, perform electron microscopy analyses, and contribute to the development of a new holographic size spectrometry technique.

The position offers the opportunity to pursue a PhD degree at Technische Universität Darmstadt. Supervision will be provided by Prof. Dr. Kandler in collaboration with partners at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and / or the Barcelona Supercomputing Center. The candidate will join the Atmospheric Aerosol working group at the Institute for Applied Geosciences. TU Darmstadt offers structured networking and support programs for PhD students.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Physics, Meteorology, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, Geosciences, or Environmental Sciences.
• Strong background in experimental work and data analysis.
• Experience with programming languages is desirable.
• Fluency in English (spoken and written).
• Willingness and ability to carry out fieldwork, including repair and maintenance of equipment, at field sites in Spain and Austria.

What we offer

• The opportunity to work on an internationally visible and scientifically relevant research project funded by the DFG.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, including electron microscopy.
• Fieldwork campaigns in Spain and Austria with close collaboration between international research partners.
• Structured doctoral training and networking opportunities through TU Darmstadt’s graduate programs.
• A supportive, interdisciplinary, and diverse research environment within the Atmospheric Aerosol working group and the Institute for Applied Geosciences.
• Opportunities for research stays and collaboration with partners at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and the Barcelona Supercomputing Center.

Employment conditions

• Fixed-term position for 3 years.
• Place of employment: Darmstadt.
• Targeted starting date: 1 January 2026.
• The position is offered as a 75% position at TV-TUDa E13.

Please send your application as a single PDF file to kandler@geo.tu-darmstadt.de, including:

• motivation letter
• CV
• copies of relevant certificates
• preferred starting date
• names and contact details of at least two references, in case you had a close collaboration (e.g. during the master thesis).

Review of applications will begin on 15 November 2025 and continue until the position is filled.
For further information, please contact kandler@geo.tu-darmstadt.de