PhD and Postdoc Positions in Fire Safety, Combustion, and Materials Science for Space Exploration at University of Bremen

The University of Bremen's Center of Applied Space Technology and Microgravity (ZARM) is offering an exciting PhD and postdoctoral opportunity in the Combustion Technology group as part of the ERC Synergy project FireSpace. This multidisciplinary project aims to revolutionize fire safety for human spaceflight by developing advanced fire-retardant materials and innovative firefighting strategies for spacecraft and future lunar/Martian habitats. The research is conducted in collaboration with leading institutions: Centrale Lille Institute (France), Ghent University (Belgium), Sorbonne University (France), and New York University (USA). Key research areas include materials science, combustion dynamics, experimental and numerical modeling, and the development of diagnostics for flame characterization in microgravity environments. The project leverages the unique Bremen drop tower for experimental work and involves both laboratory and microgravity platform experiments. The successful candidate will plan and design experiments, develop diagnostics, conduct scientific evaluations, and contribute to numerical model development using experimental data. There is also an emphasis on interdisciplinary teamwork and international collaboration. Applicants should hold a master's degree (or be in the final phase) in engineering or physics, with strong English skills and a solid technical and physical understanding. Desirable skills include prior knowledge in combustion, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, measurement technology, programming (Python, MATLAB, C++), and CAD design. The position is classified as E 13 TV-L, full-time or part-time, and is funded until January 1, 2032. Benefits include annual bonuses, pension scheme, flexible working hours, health management, and opportunities for further training. To apply, submit your motivation letter, CV, certificates, and publication list (if applicable) as a PDF by email with reference number A005-26 by March 19, 2026. The University of Bremen is committed to diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds. Women and severely disabled applicants will be given priority where qualifications are equal. For more information, visit the official job posting or contact Dr.-Ing. Florian Meyer at ZARM.