University Professorship (W3) „Aerosol and Cloud Processes“

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT); Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen; On-site; EUR 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Excellent Research Conditions

International Networking

Transparent Career Paths & Development

Family-friendly Offers

Onboarding & Integration

Job summary

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) invites applications for a W3 professorship in Aerosols and Cloud Processes at IMKAAF within the Physics Department. The appointee will lead strategic aerosol and cloud research, strengthen international collaborations, and contribute to Earth system modelling and data-driven AI applications.

Responsibilities include teaching, supervising early‑career researchers, and expanding networks across Europe, with a focus on integrating research into observatories

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics or closely related discipline (e.g., Meteorology, Chemistry, Environmental Science).
• Internationally recognized achievements in aerosol and cloud research enabling professorship eligibility.
• Experience leading research activities and collaborations; capability to operate research infrastructures.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic development of aerosol and cloud research at IMKAAF, integrate activities with observational networks.
• Advance use of resources in Earth system modelling and data-driven/AI applications at KIT and the Helmholtz Association.
• Expand collaborations, build European ACTRIS partnerships, secure competitive third-party funding.
• Mentor and support early-career researchers and foster an excellent international research environment.
• Deliver lectures and lab courses with a reduced teaching load (2 SWS per week) in Meteorology and Climate Physics programs.

Skills

Scientific leadership

External funding

Teaching experience

Diversity promotion

Education

PhD in Physics or related field

Job description

The Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) invites applications for the position of Professor of Aerosols and Cloud Processes (W3 professorship) at the Institute of Meteorology and Climate Research Atmospheric Aerosol Research (IMKAAF) within the Department of Physics and Area IV, Natural and Built Environment, of the KIT. For this position, we are looking for an internationally recognized scientist in the field of experimental atmospheric physics who will lead the IMKAAF and contribute to its strategic development.

Your Tasks

• You will assume a leading role in the strategic development of aerosol and cloud research at IMKAAF. In this role, you will strengthen the integration of the institute's research activities, scientific results, datasets, and expertise into observational networks and activities, while further enhancing their international connectivity.
• You will also play a key role in advancing the use of these resources in Earth system modelling as well as in data-driven and AI-supported applications at KIT, within the Helmholtz Association, and in the international research landscape.
• Furthermore, you will expand existing collaborations and research networks, particularly within the European ACTRIS network, initiate new strategic partnerships and research initiatives, and actively contribute to the advancement of the research field and the implementation of the Helmholtz research program "Earth and Environment" through the acquisition of competitive third-party funding.
• In addition, you will be committed to the education, supervision, and support of early-career researchers and will strengthen an excellent international research environment.
• With a reduced teaching load of 2 semester hours per week, you will teach lectures and laboratory courses within the Meteorology and Climate Physics degree programs (BSc in German, MSc in English).

Employment is subject to Art. 14, par. (2) of the KIT Act in conjunction with Art. 47 LHG Baden-Württemberg (Act of Baden-Württemberg on Universities and Colleges).

Your Profile

• You should hold a PhD in Physics or a closely related discipline, such as Meteorology, Chemistry, or Environmental Science.
• Through your internationally recognized scientific achievements, particularly in the field of aerosol and cloud research, you have qualified for a university professorship.
• You also have experience in the scientific leadership of research activities and collaborative projects, as well as in the use, operation, and further development of research infrastructures.
• In addition, you have a proven record of securing competitive external research funding, have made substantial contributions to international research collaborations and partnerships, and demonstrate a strong commitment to teaching and to the development of early-career researchers.
• Furthermore, you are expected to actively promote equal opportunities, diversity, and talent development. Strong leadership and management skills are essential.

We Offer

• Excellent Research Conditions & State-of-the-art Infrastructure : Benefit from a unique environment that combines university and large-scale research, and gain access to state-of-the-art equipment and interdisciplinary projects. This environment enables you to conduct both basic and applied research at the highest level.
• International Networking : You will work in a global network that encompasses international collaborations and English-language scientific communication. KIT promotes exchange with leading research institutions and industry partners worldwide.
• Transparent Career Paths & Personal Development : Clear development prospects, individual coaching, and a well-developed leadership development program support you in steering your academic career in a targeted manner.
• Family-friendly Offers : The KIT Dual Career Service supports you and your partner in integrating into the workforce, while flexible working time models and company childcare facilities make it easier to balance work and family life.
• Onboarding & Integration : A customized onboarding program will accompany you from your first day at work, enabling you to quickly get started in research, teaching, and the KIT networks and get off to the best possible start.

Salary

Salary is governed by the statutory provisions of the State of Baden-Württemberg and comprises the basic salary of salary grade W3. In addition, the granting of performance-related pay components is possible. The family allowance is paid, where applicable, in accordance with civil service law.

Contact person in line-management

For subject-matter inquiries, please contact Prof. Dr. Johannes Orphal , Email:

At KIT we value the diversity of our employees; different perspectives and backgrounds enrich our work. We therefore welcome applications from all candidates. Women are especially encouraged to apply. Applications from recognized severely disabled individuals are given preferential consideration when qualifications are equal.

Application up to: 2026-11-22

Job posting number: 1241/2026

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