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 Institute for Applied Geosciences at the Technical University Darmstadt invites applications for a postdoc position (m/f/d) within the project

Cross-seasonal Investigation Regarding the Composition of atmospheric trace matter Up to UTLS heightS,

part of the Transregional Collaborative Research Centre 301:
"TPChange – The Tropopause Region in a Changing Atmosphere".
https://tpchange.de

The CIRCUS (B02) project investigates the seasonal variability and origin of atmospheric refractory trace particles in the Upper Troposphere–Lower Stratosphere (UTLS) above Central Europe. Besides a general aerosol characterization, it targets the differentiation of meteoric particles (MPs) and spacecraft-induced particles (SiPs), which may influence cirrus formation and radiative forcing and its temporal variability in the UTLS. A cross-seasonal balloon sounding program will be conducted from a stationary launch site in Mainz over 18 months, with ~30 launches spanning at least a full seasonal cycle plus a subsequent winter period. This is complemented by an intensive 3-week campaign focusing on frontal uplift events in the polluted Rhine–Main region. The balloon platform is upgraded with high-resolution in-situ instruments (POPS, Partector-2, modified N3) and thermophoretic samplers for aerosol microphysics and composition. Online measurements and offline SEM-EDX analyses are split between JGU (Mainz) and TUDa (Darmstadt). Project leaders are Dr. Ralf Weigel (JGU) and Prof. Konrad Kandler (TUDa). The successful applicant will be employed at TUDa with a focus on aerosol composition. B02 is tightly embedded in the Collaborative Research Centre via modelling support from B01/A03 and campaign integration into TPEx-II. Collaborations extend internationally, including NOAA (US), e.g. for instrument provision.

Requirements

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in meteorology, atmospheric physics, physical chemistry, or a closely related field, and has a strong background in radiative interactions with particles and physical optics and / or electron microscopy. They are familiar with atmospheric thermodynamics, aerosols, and cloud microphysics, and are proficient in Python as well as in the fundamentals of statistics and applied mathematics. Experience working in Linux environments is an advantage. Prior fieldwork experience is highly desirable, and the position requires the willingness to perform regular outdoor measurements. Skills in basic electronics or instrumentation handling are considered a plus.

Employment conditions

The place of employment will be Darmstadt, the work will be distributed as needed between Darmstadt (SEM analysis) and Mainz (balloon operation). The targeted starting date is 1^st January 2026 and the project will last until 30^th June 2029. Salary is according to TV-TUD E13 (100%).

Applications and deadline

Please send applications with reference to the code B02-PD-TUDa as one single pdf file to tpc_jobs@uni-mainz.de, including a motivation letter, CV, and copies of relevant certificates. Review of all applications will start on 4^th December 2025 and will continue until the position is filled. For further information, please contact kandler@geo.tu-darmstadt.de.

TPChange offers a comprehensive and structured training for early career researchers. In addition to self-organised activities such as workshops, trainings and a guest program, the successful candidate will have the opportunity, if desired, to pursue international research visits. The consortium conducts an ambitious program to gradually enhance gender equality on all career levels.