Auf einen Blick
- Aufgaben: Lead a research group and manage a lab focused on spaceflight mechanics and robotics.
- Arbeitgeber: Join the Chair of Astrodynamics at TUM, a leader in spaceflight science and engineering.
- Mitarbeitervorteile: Enjoy a full-time position with potential for permanent placement and a stimulating international team.
- Warum dieser Job: Shape the future of space exploration while mentoring students and conducting groundbreaking research.
- Gewünschte Qualifikationen: Ph.D. in relevant fields with strong skills in space systems, programming, and research publication.
- Andere Informationen: Diversity is valued; all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, including individuals with disabilities.
Das voraussichtliche Gehalt liegt zwischen 48000 - 84000 € pro Jahr.
Chair of Astrodynamics
TUM School of Engineering and Design
Technische Universität München
TUM – Logo
The Chair of Astrodynamics is offering a
Academic Position as Postdoctoral Researcher and Group Lead in Astronautical Engineering and Orbital Space Robotics (m/f/d)
About us and the position
At the Chair of Astrodynamics, we advance spaceflight science and engineering through pioneering research, from theory, to experimentation and flight. Our research foci include spaceflight mechanics, orbital robotics and systems engineering for advanced space missions.
This university-funded scientific employee position is for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher that wants to build up the solid foundation of an academic or group-lead career in Astronautics and Space Engineering, and aims at becoming a leader in the field. The postdoctoral associate will lead a research group, manage a laboratory, and conduct research and teaching in all focus areas of the Chair of Astrodynamics. Those include spaceflight mechanics, with a primary focus on the rotational and orbital maneuvering of artificial satellites, autonomous guidance, navigation, & control, the engineering of advanced space systems and missions, and orbital robotics for in-space servicing, assembly, and debris removal. Broader research interests extend to entrepreneurial innovation, technology transfer, and space-enabled sustainability. The research philosophy at the Chair of Astrodynamics integrates theoretical investigation with simulation, laboratory experimentation, and flight testing.search methodologies utilizing advanced methods. Our research is inherently interdisciplinary, fostering collaboration with the fields of information systems, innovation management, and psychology.
Your main Responsibilities
Lead a research group of Ph.D. candidates, Master’s students and lab technician toward collaborative research goals
Lead the development and manage a state-of-the-art laboratory for spaceflight mechanics and control hardware-in-theloop testing and advanced astrodynamics visualization
Conduct original and excellence-driven research efforts in all focus areas of the Chair of Astrodynamics, integrating theoretical investigation with simulation, laboratory experimentation, and flight testing
Publish research findings in reports, high-impact international journals, and present at leading conferences
Mentor undergraduate, Master’s students and Ph.D. candidates
Continue to develop expertise and stay current with advancements in the Chair’s research areas
Contribute to teaching and examinations for TUM students at the Chair of Astrodynamics
Proactively execute and manage administrative tasks at the Chair of Astrodynamics
Contribute to inventions and patent applications
Initiate and lead grant writing and collaborative proposal development to obtain research funding
Required Skills & Experience
A Ph.D. with excellent academic results in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, or a related field at the time of appointment
Required knowledge
Excellent knowledge of spaceflight mechanics, control, orbital robotics, and space systems engineering
Excellent mathematical, analytical and problem-solving skills
Proficiency or native knowledge of English (written and spoken)
Proficiency or native knowledge of German (written and spoken)
Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, C/C++, GMAT or similar, 3D modeling tools, project management tools
Proven experience in space engineering research integrating simulation, lab and flight experimentation
An excellent publication record at the time of appointment
Required skills
Excellent interpersonal communication skills, ability to work in a team and ability to lead a team
Exceptional critical thinking, creativity and attention to details
High self-motivation, resiliency and persistence in overcoming research and team-leadership challenges
Proficient organizational skills, and project management
Proven ability to formulate and systematically investigate research questions
Strong passion and ability to write archival quality technical papers and documentation
Capacity to work independently as well as collaboratively, and to motivate a team
Commitment to research excellence and adherence to the highest ethical professional standards
Advantageous knowledge/skills
Prior experience in a leading role
Prior experience of research grant writing
Good knowledge of the Bavarian, German and European research ecosystem.
What we offer
Full-time position (100% / 40h, pay grade A13 a.Z., TV-L) with an initial 3-year contract, which in case of exceptional performance may be extended to a permanent position
Engaging research in a welcoming international team, highly motivated to shape the future of Space
Stimulating working environment at one of the top technical universities in Europe
An academic ecosystem fostering entrepreneurial initiatives and the possible creation of spin-off startups
A large network of peers in the international space business and academia
The position is based at the TUM Ottobrunn Campus in the vicinity of Munich, Bavaria, Germany
We value diversity, equity, and inclusion and encourage candidates from underrepresented groups to apply. We are dedicated to offering an inclusive research environment and encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply, including individuals with disabilities. The position is suitable for persons with disabilities.
Application
Interested candidates should send their application (including motivation letter (max. 1 page), CV in Europass format, also listing nationality/nationalities, list of publications, university transcripts with grades, at least three letters of reference, copy of three journal papers, copy of diplomas or other supporting documents) via email: (Important: Please attach a single PDF and use the subject: „(your name) for GROUPLEAD-COA“). The deadline for the application is: 31 March 2025 (the position will remain open until filled). The aim is for the position to start in late Spring 2025. We look forward to your application!
Technische Universität München
TUM School of Engineering and
Design Chair of Astrodynamics
Prof. Dr. Marcello Romano
Lise-Meitner-Str. 9, 85521 Ottobrunn
Data Protection Information:
As part of your application, you provide personal data to the Technical University of Munich (TUM). Please view our privacy policy on collecting and processing personal data in the course of the application process pursuant to Art. 13 of the General Data Protection Regulation of the European Union (GDPR) at By submitting your application, you confirm to have read and understood the data protection information provided by TUM.
Academic Position as Postdoctoral Researcher and Group Lead in Astronautical Engineering and Orbital Space Robotics (m/f/d) Arbeitgeber: Technische Universität München (TUM)

Kontaktperson:
Technische Universität München (TUM) HR Team
StudySmarter Bewerbungstipps 🤫
So bekommst du den Job: Academic Position as Postdoctoral Researcher and Group Lead in Astronautical Engineering and Orbital Space Robotics (m/f/d)
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to highlight your leadership experience in your conversations with us. As a group lead, you'll be managing a team of Ph.D. candidates and students, so demonstrating your ability to inspire and guide others is crucial.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarize yourself with our current research projects and publications. This will not only help you understand our focus areas better but also allow you to discuss how your expertise aligns with our goals during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the field of astronautical engineering and orbital robotics. Attend relevant conferences or workshops where you can meet potential collaborators and gain insights into the latest trends and challenges in the industry.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with grant writing and funding proposals. Since securing research funding is part of the role, showcasing your past successes or strategies in this area will set you apart from other candidates.
Diese Fähigkeiten machen dich zur top Bewerber*in für die Stelle: Academic Position as Postdoctoral Researcher and Group Lead in Astronautical Engineering and Orbital Space Robotics (m/f/d)
Tipps für deine Bewerbung 🫡
Craft a Strong Motivation Letter: Your motivation letter should clearly express your passion for astronautical engineering and orbital space robotics. Highlight your relevant experience, research interests, and how you envision contributing to the Chair of Astrodynamics.
Format Your CV in Europass Style: Ensure your CV is in the Europass format, detailing your academic background, work experience, skills, and publications. Make sure to include your nationality/nationalities as requested.
Compile Required Documents: Gather all necessary documents including university transcripts, letters of reference, copies of three journal papers, and diplomas. Ensure everything is up-to-date and accurately reflects your qualifications.
Submit as a Single PDF: When you're ready to apply, compile all your documents into a single PDF file. Use the subject line format specified in the job description: '(your name) for GROUPLEAD-COA' when sending your application via email.
Wie du dich auf ein Vorstellungsgespräch bei Technische Universität München (TUM) vorbereitest
✨Show Your Passion for Space Engineering
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for astronautical engineering and orbital robotics. Share specific examples of your previous research or projects that align with the Chair of Astrodynamics' focus areas, demonstrating your commitment to advancing spaceflight science.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
Since this position involves leading a research group, be prepared to discuss your leadership experiences. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams, mentored students, or led projects in the past, showcasing your ability to inspire and guide others.
✨Demonstrate Interdisciplinary Collaboration Skills
The role emphasizes collaboration across various fields. Be ready to discuss instances where you've worked with professionals from different disciplines, highlighting your ability to integrate diverse perspectives into your research and problem-solving approaches.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to spaceflight mechanics, control systems, and orbital robotics. Brush up on your knowledge of MATLAB, Python, and other relevant tools, and be ready to discuss your research methodologies and findings in detail.