Physicist (f/m/x) - Interferometric spectroscopy for wind lidar measurement

The Institute of Atmospheric Physics conducts research on the physics and chemistry of the global atmosphere, from the ground up to an altitude of 120 kilometers.

What To Expect

The LIDAR Department develops ground-based, airborne, and space-based lidar systems and operates them for the active remote sensing of key atmospheric parameters. In the context of aviation, a novel lidar system for measuring wind speed has been developed in recent years. It will enable commercial aircraft to respond to disturbances in airflow (turbulence, gusts) through real‑time control. This enhances the efficiency and safety of civil aviation. In the current EU project UP Wing, the corresponding sensor—the direct‑detection Doppler wind lidar—is being further improved, expanded, and verified in field trials and flight tests.

Your tasks

• theoretical and simulation‑based research on imaging interferometric spectroscopy using pulsed laser technology for near‑field wind lidar measurements based on molecular backscatter
• setup of laboratory experiments in interferometry using laser technology and various detection methods in different configurations
• conducting experiments and measurements in the laboratory, as well as field and flight tests
• analysis of measurements using advanced regression techniques, as well as descriptive and exploratory statistical methods

Your profile

• completed scientific university degree (Master’s or Diploma) in the natural sciences, e.g., physics, or in engineering, e.g., aerospace engineering, or other degree programs relevant to the position
• Ph.D. in optical measurement methods, odtronics, interferometry, or similar
• strong knowledge of optics, particularly in interferometry, laser technology, and detection technologies
• several years of experience in experimental research involving laboratory work
• strong knowledge of scientific programming using Python, MATLAB, Mathematica, and LabVIEW
• strong knowledge of optical design software (OpticsStudio or similar)
• very strong English skills (C1)

The remuneration is based on qualifications and assigned duties, up to pay grade 13 of the TVöD.

We look forward to getting to know you!

If you have any questions about this position please contact:

Dr. Andreas Fix
Tel.: