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. Our network includes 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/

At the Leibniz Institute of Atmospheric Physics (IAP), a full-time position (40h/week) in the Department “Modelling of Atmospheric Processes” is available as

Postdoctoral scientist, “Drivers of D-region ionosphere variability above the Baltic Sea region” (f/m/d)

The position is offered for two years with a start date on April 1, 2027. The salary is according to class EG 13 TV-L. The fixed-term contract is based on § 2 WissZeitVG.

This position is part of the project “Atmospheric Impact on the R-Mode Positioning System” with participation from IAP, the University of Greifswald, the DLR Institute for Solar-Terrestrial Physics, the DLR Institute of Communications and Navigation, and the Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde.

Satellite-based navigation systems (GNSS) provide essential services for position determination and time synchronization, but synthetic interferences often disrupt the GNSS signals in the Baltic Sea area, which can have catastrophic consequences for air or ship traffic. This collaborative effort aims to establish a backup system based on the R-Mode (Ranging Mode) technology that provides sufficiently accurate position and time data in the event of a GNSS disruption. Waves emitted by R-Mode transmitters travel close to the surface (ground wave) or they are reflected at the E layer (90-130 km). Superposition of the latter signal with the ground wave leads to a deterioration of R-mode accuracy. This is of little concern during daytime, as the wave is damped when passing the D layer (60-90 km). However, at night, but also when there are fluctuations in the D layer, this attenuation disappears or is reduced.

Your Tasks:

The department Modelling of Atmospheric Processes develops the upper-atmosphere general circulation model UA-ICON, as well as the chemistry transport model CTM-IAP, which can be driven by UA-ICON dynamics. The successful candidate will perform UA-ICON simulations with interactive chemistry, and/or UA-ICON-CTM simulations to understand how global teleconnections (e.g., from the tropics or the polar vortex) affect the chemistry in the D-region ionosphere layer above the Baltic Sea. In addition, UA-ICON experiments shall be conducted to study the effects of solar variability on the D-region. Thus, the project will investigate the relative importance of lower-atmospheric versus solar forcing on the state of the D-region above the Baltic Sea and their predictability.

Your Qualifications / Experience:

• A PhD in Physics, Computational science, Atmospheric science or a related field
• Proficiency in high performance computing
• Knowledge of modern statistical methods
• Proficiency in visualizing large data sets
• Proficiency in English as a working language
• Excellent communication and team work skill

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 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: 2026-09

to: personal@iap-kborn.de

Applications received before December 14, 2026 will receive full consideration. 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 Prof. Dr. Claudia Stephan (CCStephan@iap-kborn.de) or inform yourself under www.iap-kborn.de.