TUD Dresden University of Technology, recognized as a University of Excellence, invites applications for a full-time PhD position (Research Associate) at the Faculty of Mechanical Science and Engineering, Institute of Aerospace Engineering, Chair of Space Systems. This opportunity is part of the E-Sailors Doctoral Network, funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe program under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant agreement. The position, titled 'E-Sailor 5,' focuses on developing a high-voltage Power Processing Unit (PPU) for the innovative Electric Solar Wind Sail (E-sail) propulsion system, a disruptive technology for deep space exploration.

The E-sail concept utilizes hair-thin, kilometers-long wires charged at high voltage to create an electrostatic sheath, deflecting solar wind particles and generating propulsive force in interplanetary environments. The successful candidate will design, prototype, and test a PPU capable of delivering voltages in the range of 20 kV and currents in the hundreds of microamperes, ensuring efficiency and reliability in vacuum and space conditions. The project includes collaboration with other E-Sailor researchers and supports payload integration for the ESTCube-LuNa mission.

Training objectives include developing core scientific skills in space technology experimentation, mission development, and a broad set of transferrable skills such as Open Science, science communication, advocacy, networking, and entrepreneurship. The program offers interdisciplinary and international research experience, with a 2-month secondment at Aalto University in Finland and collaboration across 8 universities and 4 companies.

Applicants must hold (or be close to completing) a Master’s degree in electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field, with solid knowledge in high-voltage circuit design. Space electronics experience is advantageous. Excellent English proficiency is required, and candidates must be eligible to enroll in a PhD program at TU Dresden. The position is open to all nationalities, but applicants must not have resided or worked in Germany for more than 12 months in the past 36 months prior to recruitment, in accordance with MSCA mobility rules. Candidates must not already possess a doctoral degree.

The position offers a competitive salary according to MSCA regulations, including living, mobility, and family allowances (if eligible), with employer contributions to social security and health insurance. Tuition, research costs, and short-term mobility (e.g., conference attendance) are covered. TUD Dresden is committed to diversity, family-friendliness, and encourages applications from women and candidates with disabilities.

To apply, submit a single PDF containing the application form, motivation letter, CV, reference letters or contacts, educational and professional certificates, and passport copy via the TUD SecureMail Portal or by email to [email protected] by January 30, 2026. Additionally, send a short video (max 30 seconds) introducing yourself and your motivation in a separate email. Quote the reference 'Application for DC5 position.' Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. For further details, visit the E-Sailors project page and TU Dresden’s doctoral program information.