LIAG-Institut für Angewandte Geophysik, Stilleweg 2, 30655 Hannover

Homepage: https://www.liag-institut.de

The LIAG INSTITUTE FOR APPLIED GEOPHYSICS is offering the following position at the earliest possible date with 100% of the regular weekly working hours for a limited period until 30.11.28, possibly with the option of extension:

Research Assistant

in the field of mechanical engineering/technical development (m/f/d)

-EG 13 TV-L-

Reference: G 21/25 ‘Seismic borehole vibration source - mechanical engineering’

LIAG uses complementary geophysical methods to investigate structures and processes in the usable subsurface, focussing on geohazards, groundwater and georeservoirs. In reflection seismics, we focus on seismic measurement technology (compression waves, shear waves and multicomponent seismics). LIAG is an international leader in the development of broadband vibration sources and shear wave methodology for high-resolution subsurface exploration and holds patents in this field.

In the joint project ‘Monthy’, funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, LIAG and its partners are planning to develop an innovative seismic borehole vibration source for SV waves. The aim is to improve the spatial resolution, depth range and signal quality of seismic borehole tomography. The prototype, designed for depths of up to 1500 m and temperatures of up to 60°C, is intended to provide detailed insights into elastic subsurface properties and offers potential for applications in energy, environmental and raw materials research. To realise this ambitious project, we are looking for a research assistant (m/f/d) with a focus on mechanical engineering / technical development who will work together with our team of scientific and technical employees at the interface of research, technology and energy transition.

Your tasks:

• Developing design drafts for the SV-wave borehole vibration source, taking into account functional and manufacturing requirements; performing calculations on mechanical stresses and vibrational behaviour
• Design and optimisation of vibration and drive units (e.g. hydraulic, mechanical or electromagnetic); evaluation of various design principles with regard to efficiency, vibration frequency and energy transmission
• Collaboration in the design of control and regulation systems; coordination of mechanical components with electrical and hydraulic control units; integration of sensors and data acquisition systems
• Prototype construction and technical implementation; supervising the production of internal and external components; carrying out functional tests, error analyses and technical adjustments
• Validation of the prototype: Carrying out and evaluating laboratory and field tests to test the function of the source; measuring vibration parameters and energy transfer; evaluating operational stability under realistic pressure and temperature conditions
• Preparation of technical documentation, design documents, test protocols and reports for the joint project; exchange with project partners on technical interfaces; presentation of results in the project context

You have:

• A university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in mechanical engineering, mechatronics or a related field
• Knowledge of the design and testing of mechanical or mechatronic systems
• Knowledge of control and measurement technology
• Knowledge of CAD-supported design and prototyping
• Ability to practically implement experimental setups and test systems
• Manual skills / craftsmanship
• German language skills (comparable to level C1 GER)
• Good knowledge of English (at least comparable to level B2 GER)
• Creativity and ability to work in a team
• Willingness and suitability to work in the field (physical resilience for outdoor work over several days in potentially challenging environmental conditions such as heat, cold, rain and uneven terrain as well as the ability to transport loads of up to 25 kg)
• Class B driving licence

Ideally, you also fulfil the following requirements:

• Experience with laboratory or field testing
• Experience with borehole measurement systems
• Experience with electrical or servomechanical control systems
• Understanding of technical requirements under pressure and temperature conditions
• Interest in the application of engineering solutions in geophysics

We offer:

The LIAG Institute for Applied Geophysics enjoys an excellent reputation both nationally and internationally. The institute is characterised by an excellent infrastructural integration into the GEOZENTRUM Hannover, state-of-the-art and high-performance equipment (IT, laboratory, field) as well as a strong network and a friendly, professional and collegial working environment. LIAG promotes the further education and training of its staff.

The place of work is Hanover. The position is classified in pay group 13 of the collective agreement for the public service of the federal states (TV-L), taking into account § 40 No. 5 TV-L for the step allocation.

Applications from people of all nationalities, regardless of their origin, gender, religion or ideology, disability, age or sexual identity are welcome. The LIAG also pursues the goal of professional equality between women and men. We therefore particularly welcome applications from women in this area. Within the framework of flexible working hours, we offer you a responsible and varied job that is also suitable for part-time employees and as a return to work, e.g. after parental leave.

LIAG is endeavouring to increase the proportion of severely disabled people and will therefore give them preferential consideration if they are equally qualified.

Please send your electronic application with cover letter, CV and certificates (PDF with max. 10 MB) to Dr. Sonja Wadas at career-LIAG@liag-institut.de by 31.12.2025, quoting reference G 21/25 ‘Seismic Borehole Vibration Source - Mechanical Engineering’. Further information on LIAG can be found on the Internet at www.liag-institut.de. For further information, please contact Dr. Sonja Wadas on 0511/643-2489 or by e-mail at Sonja.Wadas@liag-institut.de

Please send your electronic application with cover letter, CV and certificates (PDF with max. 10 MB) to Dr. Sonja Wadas at career-LIAG@liag-institut.de by 31.12.2025, quoting reference G 21/25 ‘Seismic Borehole Vibration Source - Mechanical Engineering’. Further information on LIAG can be found on the Internet at www.liag-institut.de. For further information, please contact Dr. Sonja Wadas on 0511/643-2489 or by e-mail at Sonja.Wadas@liag-institut.de