Postdoc Distributed Spaceborne Radar Systems

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft); Delft; On-site; EUR 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands is offering a 2-year postdoctoral researcher position focused on advancing spaceborne radar systems. The role emphasizes defining requirements for distributed SAR and interferometric imagers, developing system concepts, and supporting NL-RIA 2.0 network activities.

You will work closely with NL-RIA partners within the Section of Space Systems Engineering (SSE) at TU Delft and contribute to workshops, market surveys, and proposals, with a focus on

Qualifications

• PhD in engineering (aerospace, electronics, or related fields).
• Proven space mission design and systems engineering experience.
• Knowledge of Earth observation or radar technologies.
• Direct project management experience across multiple entities.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with NL-RIA partners to derive high-level user requirements for distributed SAR and interferometric imagers.
• Develop system requirements and concepts for distributed space systems.
• Support NL-RIA 2.0 network activities: market survey, inventory, proposals, coordination, workshops.
• Engage with the TU Delft SSE and contribute to broader education and outreach.

Skills

Space mission design

Space systems engineering

Earth observation radar

Project management

Education

PhD in engineering

Job description

Join us at TU Delft to reshape the future of spaceborne radar systems in the Netherlands!

Job description

Spaceborne radar systems has proven to be effective tools for broader applications from high-resolution imaging to altimetry. In TU Delft, we are openning a 2-year postdoctoral researcher position to advance this promising field. The position is part of NL-RIA 2.0, the Dutch network on small spaceborne radar instruments and application, after the successful NL-RIA 1.0 project. Funded by the Netherlands Space Agency (NLSA), NL-RIA 2.0 will maintain the existing focus of NL-RIA on breakthrough technologies to implement miniaturized radar missions with the recent technology advancement and trends in low-cost distributed space systems.

The position will require you to work closely with NL-RIA partners, to derive high-level user requirements of two classes of radar instruments, i.e. distributed SAR and near-nadir looking interferometric imager, to evaluate various fractionated space systems on their suitability as radar instruments, and to develop system requirements and the system concepts. You will also play a key role in supporting the NL-RIA 2.0 network by contributing to the organisation of network support activities, including the market survey and technolgies/ applications inventory, proposal preparation, internal/external coordination meetings, and international workshops. You will work at TU Delft premise, primarily within the Section of Space Systems Engineering (SSE). SSE is dedicated to the broad range of end-to-end spacecraft engineering, with focuses on distributed and miniaturised space systems.

Job requirements

We look forward to dynamic candidates that want to get their hands onto a real mission and bring a contribution to society. You also have:

• A PhD in engineering (aerospace engineering, electronics or related fields)
• You have proven experience in space mission design and space systems engineering, ideally in distributed space systems including formation flying or in-orbit assembly.
• You have basic knowledge on Earth observation or radar technologies, ideally with experience in the field of radar-based observation.
• Ideally, you have direct experience in project management involving multiple entities.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow. These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future.

At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional. Working at TU Delft means join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Faculty Aerospace Engineering

The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is a leading international community where innovation in aerospace meets global challenges. Our support and scientific staff, including PhD candidates, postdocs, and students, largely work together on three main themes: the energy transition, sustainable aerospace, and safety and security, with the aim of tackling climate change and contributing to the independence and security of Europe.

When you join us, you become part of a diverse, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and perspectives are valued. Our work extends beyond the lab—into field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, both locally and globally.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace, assisted by a active Diversity & Inclusion team. This includes tangible support such as funding for extra personnel for family and caregiving responsibilities, mentoring programmes, and initiatives that promote cultural exchange and integration.

You don’t just join our faculty — you join a community where you can thrive, grow, and help shape the future of aerospace.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.

Conditions of employment

• Duration of contract is 2 years. Temporary.
• A job of 36-40 hours per week.
• Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch
• An excellent pension scheme via the ABP.
• The possibility to compile an individual employment package every year.
• Discount with health insurers on supplemental packages.
• Flexible working week.
• Every year, 232 leave hours (at 38 hours). You can also sell or buy additional leave hours via the individual choice budget.
• Plenty of opportunities for education, training and courses.
• Partially paid parental leave
• Attention for working healthy and energetically with the vitality program.

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.

Additional information

If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Dr. Jian Guo, via [e-mail].