Promotion / Ph.D. (m/f/d) - Chemical kinetics of nitrous oxide based mono- and bi-propellants

Overview

At the Institute of Combustion Technology, we are shaping the future of energy and mobility. Our 100 staff members from various disciplines optimise technical combustion processes using numerical models, modern experimental techniques and chemical‑kinetic methods. Alternative, climate‑neutral and synthetic fuels (combustion, power, transport fuels and propulsion) in liquid and gaseous form are a key area of research at the Institute.

What to Expect

In the Chemical Kinetics and Analytics department, research focuses on synthetic fuels derived from renewable sources, which are being developed for use in energy generation, aviation and transport. We investigate the chemical composition, physical properties and combustion chemistry of gaseous and liquid energy carriers. Within the DLR project “NF Space Transportation” we are investigating the chemical kinetics of nitrous oxide based mono‑ and bi‑propellants. The work involves the experimental characterisation of different hydrocarbon/nitrous oxide mixtures with respect to ignition and global activation energy close to the explosion limit to provide valuable data for the improvement and validation of chemical‑kinetic reaction mechanisms used in the development of satellite and orbital propulsion systems for attitude and orbital control.

Your Task

• Perform ignition delay time experiments of nitrous oxide / hydrocarbon mixtures behind shock waves for various conditions
• Analyse and validate chemical kinetic reaction mechanisms with new data and data from literature
• Optimise reaction mechanisms and investigate characteristic combustion properties and global activation energies within the application‑relevant range
• Present own, processed scientific results and findings at national and international conferences
• Prepare technical and research reports and scientific publications in international peer‑reviewed journals

Your Profile

• Completed a university degree in Aerospace / Space / Mechanical Engineering, Physical Chemistry / Chemistry, Physics or a related discipline
• Experience and skills in experimental work e.g. reactive flows, optical diagnostics, combustion or related fields
• Knowledge of modelling and simulation of chemical kinetic reaction systems or reactive flows
• Experience in programming and data analysis, especially in Python

We offer

DLR promotes diversity, appreciation and equality for all people. We offer independent work and opportunities for personal and professional development. Equal opportunities are of particular importance, and we strive to increase the proportion of women in science and management. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preference if qualified.

Remuneration is in accordance with the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector – Federal Government (TVöD‑Bund).