DLR-DAAD Doctoral Fellowship Nr. 717: Flexible optical communications and PNT transceivers for [...]

Overview

DLR-DAAD Doctoral Fellowship Nr. 717: Flexible optical communications and PNT transceivers for satellite applications at the German Aerospace Center (DLR).

Institute: Institute of Communications and Navigation, Oberpfaffenhofen.

What to expect

The Optical Technologies for Satellite Links group develops experimental laser communications systems for optical data links between airborne carriers such as airplanes or satellites and optical ground stations, as well as demonstrator platforms for testbed system verifications. The transceiver development covers several disciplines such as photonics, electronics and programming. This PhD project will push the boundaries of optical communications and PNT transceivers, exploring innovative solutions for variable and high-speed data transmission, adaptable link configurations, and inclusion of other functionalities in miniaturized system architectures. The goal is to prototype novel transceivers that can support multiple satellite applications, driving advancements in the field and enabling new services.

Main Tasks and Responsibilities

• Literature Review and State-of-the-Art Analysis: Conduct an in-depth review of existing research on optical communications and PNT systems for satellite applications, identifying gaps and opportunities for innovation.
• System Design and Simulation: Design and simulate optical communications systems for satellite constellations, considering factors such as channel characteristics, Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) miniaturization, wavelength division multiplexing (WDM), coherent detection, and advanced modulation formats.
• Performance Evaluation and Optimization: Evaluate the performance of the developed optical communications systems, focusing on standard metrics such as bit error rate (BER) and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and application-specific factors like space environment impact, Doppler effect, and system Size, Weight and Power (SWaP).
• Experimental Setup and Testing: Develop and test experimental setups for free space optical communications (FSOC) systems, including integration of PICs, discrete optical devices, amplifiers, and other essential components.
• Theoretical Modelling and Analysis: Develop theoretical models to analyse and predict the behaviour of optical communications systems in various satellite constellations, including multi-satellite and diverse orbital configurations.
• Collaboration with Industry Partners: Collaborate with industry partners to ensure practicality and feasibility of developed systems, and to gather feedback from experts in the field.
• Publishing Research Findings: Publish research findings in reputable journals and conferences, and present results at international conferences to contribute to the advancement of the field.

What we expect from you (Qualifications)

• Master degree in physics, communications, optical or electrical engineering
• Practical experience with optical communications equipment
• Excellent programming skills in MATLAB and/or Python
• Interest in satellite optical communications
• Knowledge of photonic component design and modelling
• Experience with working in a Linux environment

Starting date: January 2026

Type of employment: Full-time

Contact: Dr. Marcin Ziarko –
Dr. Juraj Poliak –

DLR stands for diversity, appreciation and equality for all people. We promote independent work and the individual development of our employees both personally and professionally. To this end, we offer numerous training and development opportunities. Equal opportunities are of particular importance to us, which is why we want to increase the proportion of women in science and management. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preference if qualified. Further information:

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