Job Information
Organisation/Company: Justus Liebig University Giessen Department: Institute of Experimental Physics I Research Field: Physics » Chemical physics; Astronomy » Astrophysics; Chemistry » Molecular chemistry; Physics » Biophysics Researcher Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions: PhD Positions Application Deadline: 3 Nov 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/Berlin) Country: Germany Type of Contract: Temporary Job Status: Part-time Hours Per Week: 30 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework…
Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No
PhD Position – Experimental Space Physics and Astrochemistry (OREOcube / Exocube)
ElsaesserLab at Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany, invites applications for a 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). These experiments investigate the photochemistry, radiation-induced transformation and stability of organic molecules and potential biosignatures under real space conditions.
The research combines time-resolved in-situ UV-Vis and IR/FTIR spectroscopy on the ISS with laboratory simulations, synchronized ground reference experiments and post-flight sample analyses.
Main activities include:
- Preparation and physicochemical characterization of organic and mineral samples
- Scientific verification testing and preparation of flight samples
- Laboratory experiments and ground reference measurements
- Analysis and interpretation of UV-Vis and IR/FTIR spectroscopic data
- Post-flight characterization of returned samples
- Scientific publications, presentations and collaboration with international research partners, ESA, DLR and industry
Employment conditions: 75% position (30 hours/week), salary according to TV-H E13, fixed-term employment for three years, with the opportunity to pursue a PhD. (In the German university system, doctoral researchers are commonly employed as Wissenschaftliche Mitarbeitende (research associates). This is a salaried university position rather than a PhD scholarship or stipend. The position is funded for three years at 75% of a full-time employment contract (30 hours per week), with remuneration according to the German public-sector pay scale TV-H E13, subject to the applicable eligibility requirements. The position is formally classified as "part-time" because of the contractual working hours. However, the research activities and the opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree (PhD) are integral parts of the position. The 75% designation does not refer to a part-time doctoral degree programme.)
Starting date: As soon as possible, preferably December 2026. Please indicate your earliest start.
Application deadline: 3 November 2026.
Reference: JLU 389/07
Applications must be submitted exclusively through the official Justus Liebig University Giessen online application portal.
Further information on ElsaesserLab.
Requirements
Research Field: Physics
Education Level: Master Degree or equivalent
Research Field: Chemistry
Education Level: Master Degree or equivalent
Skills/Qualifications
Applicants should have:
- A Master's degree (or equivalent) in physics, astrophysics, physical chemistry or a related natural science
- Experience in experimental laboratory work and scientific data analysis
- Very good command of English
- Ability to work independently, systematically and carefully
- Strong communication and teamwork skills and interest in interdisciplinary and international collaboration
Experience with optical spectroscopy, particularly UV-Vis and/or IR/FTIR, is an advantage. Programming or data analysis skills, for example in Python or MATLAB, are also desirable.
Applicants should be motivated to learn new experimental and analytical methods.
Specific Requirements
A completed Master's degree must be demonstrated by the start of employment. Applicants who have not yet received their final degree certificate may apply by submitting their current transcript of records and expected graduation date.
Languages: ENGLISH
Level: Excellent
Years of Research Experience: None
Additional Information
Benefits
The position offers direct participation in ESA-selected experiments on the International Space Station, an international research environment, opportunities for scientific qualification and professional development, flexible working hours, remuneration according to TV-H E13, supplementary pension benefits and the Hessen public transport ticket (LandesTicket Hessen).
Eligibility criteria
A completed Master's degree (or equivalent) in Physics, Astrophysics, Physical Chemistry or a related natural science is required. The degree must be completed by the start of employment.
Selection process
Applications must be submitted through the official JLU online application portal by 3 November 2026. Please include a motivation letter outlining relevant scientific and experimental experience, a CV, and Bachelor's and Master's degree certificates including transcripts. Applicants should indicate their earliest possible starting date.
Applications sent by email will not be considered as formal applications.
Additional comments
Ref. 389/07
Website for additional job details: https://jobs.uni-giessen.de/_/jobad/index?prj=2709P1363&lang=en_GB
Work Location(s)
Number of offers available: 1
Company/Institute: Justus Liebig University Giessen/Institute of Experimental Physics I
Country: Germany
State/Province: Hessen
City: Giessen
Postal Code: 35392
Street: Heinrich-Buff-Ring 16
Contact
State/Province: Hessen
City: Giessen
Website: https://www.uni-giessen.de
Street: Heinrich-Buff-Ring 16
Postal Code: 35392
E-Mail: andreas.elsaesser@uni-giessen.de
