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TUD Dresden University of Technology

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PhD Position in High-Voltage Power Processing for E-Sail Propulsion TUD Dresden University of Technology in Germany

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Electrical Engineering

Funding

Full funding available

Deadline

Sep 18, 2026

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Country

Germany

University

TUD Dresden University of Technology

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Keywords

Electrical Engineering
Aerospace Engineering
aerospace Propulsion

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About this position

TUD Dresden University of Technology is offering a Research Associate / PhD Student position in the Chair of Space Systems at the Institute of Aerospace Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Science and Engineering. The project is part of the E-Sailors Doctoral Network and focuses on DC5: High-Voltage PPU for E-sail—developing a high-voltage power-processing unit to power the E-sail electron emitter, sail, and associated devices.

The research sits at the intersection of aerospace engineering and electrical engineering, with strong emphasis on high-voltage circuits, space electronics, and space propulsion. The project aims to design efficient hardware that can operate in vacuum and space environments, build and test prototypes, and support payload integration for the ESTCube-LuNa mission. The broader E-Sailors network explores electric solar wind sail technology for deep-space propulsion.

This is a PhD opening with full promotion and a duration of 32 months, starting November 1, 2026. The working language is English. The position is based in Dresden, Germany, with a 2-month secondment at Aalto University in Finland.

Funding: The position is funded under MSCA regulations with a competitive salary including living, mobility, and possibly family allowance. Tuition costs, research costs, and short-term mobility costs such as conference attendance are covered. Employer deductions for social security and health insurance apply according to national rules.

Eligibility highlights: Applicants need an MSc degree or equivalent in electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field. Candidates may apply before the master’s degree is formally awarded, but cannot be employed before obtaining it. A doctoral degree must not already have been awarded. Strong knowledge of high-voltage circuit design is required; space electronics experience is an advantage. Excellent English proficiency is required. Non-EU applicants must be eligible for a visa. MSCA mobility rules apply: the researcher must not have lived or carried out their main activity in Germany for more than 12 months in the 36 months before recruitment.

How to apply: Submit one single PDF with the requested documents in the exact order listed in the announcement, plus a separate short video (max 30 seconds). Apply preferably via the TUD SecureMail Portal or email the application to [email protected] using the reference “Application for DC5 position”. Deadline: September 18, 2026.

Funding details

Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.

How to apply

Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.

More information can be found here

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