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
Offer Description
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.
Reference: JLU 389/07
- 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
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
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 Geofield
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PhD Position – Experimental Space Physics and Astrochemistry (OREOcube / Exocube) Arbeitgeber: Justus Liebig University Giessen
Die Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen bietet als traditionsreiche Forschungsuniversität nicht nur ein inspirierendes Arbeitsumfeld, sondern auch zahlreiche Möglichkeiten zur persönlichen und beruflichen Weiterentwicklung. Mit einem starken Fokus auf Wissenschaft für die Gesellschaft und einer familiengerechten Hochschulpolitik schaffen wir eine unterstützende und inklusive Arbeitskultur, die es unseren Mitarbeitenden ermöglicht, ihre eigenen Erfolgsgeschichten zu schreiben. Der Standort am Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut auf der Insel Riems in Greifswald bietet zudem eine einzigartige Umgebung für innovative Forschung im Bereich Mikrobiologie.
Kontaktdaten:
Justus Liebig University Giessen Recruiting-Team
