Research Assistant in the field of mechanical engineering/technical development (m/f/d)

Position Details

• Position: Research Assistant in the field of mechanical engineering/technical development (m/f/d)
• Employer: LIAG-Institut für Angewandte Geophysik, Stilleweg 2, 30655 Hannover
• Location: Hanover, Germany
• Sector: Academic
• Relevant divisions: Geosciences Instrumentation and Data Systems (GI), Seismology (SM), Tectonics and Structural Geology (TS)
• Type: Full time
• Level: Experienced
• Salary: Salary group 13 of the collective agreement for the public service of the German states (EG 13 TV-L)
• Required education: Master
• Application deadline: 11 January 2026 (Application submission deadline: )
• Posted: 10 December 2025

The LIAG INSTITUTE FOR APPLIED GEOPHYSICS offers the following position at the earliest possible date with 100% of the regular weekly working hours for a limited period until , possibly with the option of extension. The reference for this position is G 21/25 ‘Seismic borehole vibration source - mechanical engineering’. LIAG utilizes complementary geophysical methods to investigate structures and processes in the subsurface, focusing on geohazards, groundwater and georeservoirs. In reflection seismics, we focus on seismic measurement technology (compression waves, shear waves and multicomponent seismics). LIAG is an international leader in the development of broadband vibration sources and shear wave methodology for high‑resolution subsurface exploration and holds patents in this field.

In the joint project ‘Monthy’, funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, LIAG and its partners plan to develop an innovative seismic borehole vibration source for SV waves. The aim is to improve the spatial resolution, depth range and signal quality of seismic borehole tomography. The prototype, designed for depths up to 1500 m and temperatures up to 60 °C, will provide detailed insights into elastic subsurface properties and offers potential for applications in energy, environmental and raw materials research. To realise this ambitious project, we are looking for a research assistant (m/f/d) with a focus on mechanical engineering/technical development who will work together with our team of scientific and technical employees at the interface of research, technology and energy transition.

Your Tasks

• Develop design drafts for the SV‑wave borehole vibration source, taking into account functional and manufacturing requirements; perform calculations on mechanical stresses and vibrational behaviour.
• Design and optimise vibration and drive units (e.g. hydraulic, mechanical or electromagnetic); evaluate various design principles with regard to efficiency, vibration frequency and energy transmission.
• Collaborate in the design of control and regulation systems; coordinate mechanical components with electrical and hydraulic control units; integrate sensors and data acquisition systems.
• Construct the prototype and implement technical solutions; supervise the production of internal and external components; carry out functional tests, error analyses and technical adjustments.
• Validate the prototype: carry out and evaluate laboratory and field tests to test the function of the source; measure vibration parameters and energy transfer; evaluate operational stability under realistic pressure and temperature conditions.
• Prepare technical documentation, design documents, test protocols and reports for the joint project; exchange with project partners on technical interfaces; present results in the project context.

You Have

• A university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in mechanical engineering, mechatronics or a related field.
• Knowledge of the design and testing of mechanical or mechatronic systems.
• Knowledge of control and measurement technology.
• Knowledge of CAD‑supported design and prototyping.
• Ability to practically implement experimental setups and test systems.
• Manual skills / craftsmanship.
• German language skills (comparable to level C1 GER).
• Good knowledge of English (at least comparable to level B2 GER).
• Creativity and ability to work in a team.
• Willingness and suitability to work in the field (physical resilience for outdoor work over several days in potentially challenging environmental conditions such as heat, cold, rain and uneven terrain as well as the ability to transport loads of up to 25 kg).
• Class B driving licence.

Ideally, You Also Fulfil The Following Requirements

• Experience with laboratory or field testing.
• Experience with borehole measurement systems.
• Experience with electrical or servomechanical control systems.
• Understanding of technical requirements under pressure and temperature conditions.
• Interest in the application of engineering solutions in geophysics.

We Offer

The LIAG Institute for Applied Geophysics enjoys an excellent reputation both nationally and internationally. The institute is characterised by an excellent infrastructural integration into the GEOZENTRUM Hannover, state‑of‑the‑art and high‑performance equipment (IT, laboratory, field) as well as a strong network and a friendly, professional and collegial working environment. LIAG promotes the further education and training of its staff.

The place of work is Hanover. The position is classified in pay group 13 of the collective agreement for the public service of the federal states (TV‑L), taking into account 40 No. 5 TV‑L for the step allocation.

Applications from people of all nationalities, regardless of their origin, gender, religion or ideology, disability, age or sexual identity are welcome. The LIAG also pursues the goal of professional equality between women and men. We therefore particularly welcome applications from women in this area. Within the framework of flexible working hours, we offer you a responsible and varied job that is also suitable for part‑time employees and as a return to work, e.g. after parental leave.

LIAG is endeavouring to increase the proportion of severely disabled people and will therefore give them preferential consideration if they are equally qualified.

Please send your electronic application with cover letter, CV and certificates (PDF with max. 10 MB) to Dr. Sonja Wadas at by , quoting reference G 21/25 ‘Seismic Borehole Vibration Source - Mechanical Engineering’ . Further information on LIAG can be found on the Internet at For further information, please contact Dr. Sonja Wadas on 0511/ or by e‑mail at