PhD Position – Experimental Space Physics and Astrochemistry

European Geosciences Union (EGU); Gießen; Vor Ort; EUR 39.000 - 45.000; Teilzeit

Zusammenfassung

Justus Liebig University Giessen invites applications for a funded PhD position in Experimental Space Physics and Astrochemistry. The project focuses on radiation–matter interactions and spectroscopy related to space and planetary environments, with involvement in ESA-selected OREOcube and Exocube experiments on the ISS.

The successful candidate will contribute to laboratory irradiation experiments and advanced UV-Vis/IR spectroscopy, combining astrochemistry, lab simulations, and space-based

Qualifikationen

• Master's degree in physics, physical chemistry, astrochemistry, or a related discipline.
• Experience in experimental spectroscopy, photochemistry, or radiation–matter interactions is welcome.

Aufgaben

• Contribute to ESA-selected OREOcube and Exocube experiments for the ISS.
• Perform laboratory irradiation experiments relevant to space and planetary conditions.
• Study the photochemistry and stability of organic molecules under space conditions.
• Apply UV-Vis and infrared spectroscopy to characterize samples and reactions.

Kenntnisse

Experimental spectroscopy

Photochemistry

Radiation–matter interactions

Space physics

Ausbildung

Master

Jobbeschreibung

Position

PhD Position – Experimental Space Physics and Astrochemistry

Employer

Justus Liebig University Giessen

Justus Liebig University Giessen (JLU) is a research university in Germany. ElsaesserLab at the Institute of Experimental Physics I conducts research in experimental space physics, astrochemistry, astrobiology, radiation–matter interactions, and advanced spectroscopy. The group combines laboratory simulation experiments with space-based investigations, including the ESA-selected OREOcube and Exocube experiments for the International Space Station.

Location

Giessen, Germany

Sector

Academic

Relevant division

Planetary and Solar System Sciences (PS)

Type

Part time

Level

Entry level

Salary

75% TV-H E13 (German public-sector salary scale). Fixed-term employment for 36 months.

Required education

Master

Application deadline

3 November 2026

Job Description

ElsaesserLab at Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany, invites applications for a funded PhD position in Experimental Space Physics and Astrochemistry.

The successful candidate will contribute to the ESA-selected OREOcube and Exocube experiments for the International Space Station (ISS). Research activities focus on radiation–matter interactions, the photochemistry and stability of organic molecules under space and planetary conditions, laboratory irradiation experiments, and advanced UV-Vis and infrared spectroscopy.

The research combines experimental astrochemistry, laboratory simulation of space environments, and space-based investigations of organic molecules relevant to planetary science and astrobiology.

Candidate profile

Applicants should hold a Master's degree in physics, physical chemistry, astrochemistry, or a related discipline. Experience in experimental spectroscopy, photochemistry, or radiation–matter interactions is particularly welcome.

Position details

• Location: Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany
• Duration: 3 years (36 months)
• Employment: 75% TV-H E13 (salaried PhD position)
• Starting date: As soon as possible
• Application deadline: 3 November 2026

For scientific inquiries, please contact Prof. Dr. Andreas Elsaesser ([e-mail]).