PhD Position: Future Solar-Wind Propulsion Concepts (E-Sailors DC3) at TU Dresden TUD Dresden University of Technology in Germany

TUD Dresden University of Technology, recognized as a University of Excellence, invites applications for a full-time PhD position (Research Associate) in the E-Sailors Doctoral Network, focusing on 'Future Solar-Wind Propulsion Concepts' (DC3). Hosted by the Chair of Space Systems at the Institute of Aerospace Engineering, this position is part of a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) project funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe program. The successful candidate will join a vibrant, interdisciplinary, and international research environment, collaborating with 8 universities and 4 companies, including a secondment at FMI in Finland, the birthplace of E-sail technology.

The E-Sailors network aims to advance electric solar wind sail (E-sail) technology from demonstration missions in Low Earth Orbit to operational use in the solar wind, supporting the EU's leadership in deep space exploration. The DC3 project specifically explores innovative solar-wind propulsion concepts beyond the classical E-sail, such as the Dipole Drive and solar-wind ion focusing thruster. The research involves comprehensive literature review, mathematical modeling, development of advanced numerical tools, and experimental validation through sub-scale prototypes. The candidate will benchmark new concepts against current state-of-the-art technologies and assess their application in future science missions.

Training objectives include developing core scientific skills in space technology experimentation and mission design, acquiring transferable skills in Open Science, science communication, advocacy, and networking, and building business and entrepreneurship competencies such as IPR management and business planning. The position offers a competitive MSCA salary package, including living, mobility, and family allowances (if eligible), as well as coverage for tuition, research, and short-term mobility costs. Employer contributions to social security and health insurance are provided according to German regulations.

Applicants must hold (or be close to completing) a Master’s degree in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, physics, or a related field, with solid knowledge in plasma propulsion. Excellent English proficiency is required, and candidates must be eligible to enroll in a PhD program at TU Dresden. The MSCA Mobility Rule applies: candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Germany for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment. The position is open to candidates of any nationality, provided they meet EU visa requirements. The employment contract cannot be issued until the Master’s degree is obtained.

Applications should be submitted as a single PDF (application form, motivation letter, CV, references, certificates, passport copy) via the TUD SecureMail Portal or by email to [email protected], quoting 'Application for DC3 position'. A short video (max 30 seconds) introducing yourself and your motivation must be sent in a separate email. The deadline for applications is January 30, 2026. Selection involves eligibility review, shortlisting, and online interviews. The university encourages applications from women and candidates with disabilities, and is committed to diversity and family-friendly policies.

For further details, visit the E-Sailors project page (https://sisu.ut.ee/esailors/) and the TU Dresden PhD program information (link). Data protection information is available at this page. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge space propulsion research and become a Marie Skłodowska-Curie PhD fellow at one of Germany’s leading technical universities.