Technische Universität Dresden
1 month ago
PhD Student - Evolution of Ablation Induced Emissions During Re-entry Phase (SLICE Project) Technische Universität Dresden in Germany
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
Available
Deadline
Mar 31, 2026
Country
Germany
University
Technische Universität Dresden
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Where to contact
Official Email
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About this position
The Institute of Aerospace Engineering at Technische Universität Dresden (TUD) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position as part of the Horizon Europe MSCA SLICE project. The research focuses on the evolution of ablation-induced emissions during the atmospheric re-entry phase of space launch vehicles, with the aim of understanding and mitigating their environmental and climate impacts. The SLICE project bridges space engineering and climate science, addressing knowledge gaps in the life-cycle analysis of space launch systems and supporting the European Green Deal and EU Space Law development.
The successful candidate will join an international team at TUD, one of Germany's leading technical universities and a recognized University of Excellence. The Institute of Aerospace Engineering is renowned for its innovative research in space propulsion, atmospheric entry, and environmental sustainability. The doctoral research will involve numerical analysis and multiscale simulations of emission propagation, assessment of atmospheric effects, and development of models to support climate impact studies. The project includes secondments at the von Karman Institute for Fluid Dynamics (Belgium) and Astos Solutions GmbH (Germany), fostering collaboration and interdisciplinary training.
Applicants must hold or be about to complete a Master's degree in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related field, with strong skills in computational fluid dynamics, numerical modeling, and atmospheric physics. Excellent English communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in diverse teams are essential. Candidates must comply with the MSCA Mobility Rule and must not have resided in Germany for more than 12 months in the past 36 months. The position offers a competitive MSCA salary with allowances, funding for training and conferences, and a 36-month employment contract. The application deadline is March 31, 2026, with the project starting in October 2026.
To apply, submit a single PDF including the application form, cover letter, CV, references, certificates, and a short motivation video to [email protected]. For further information, contact Dr. Christian Bach or visit the project and university websites.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants must hold or be about to obtain a Master's degree (or equivalent) in aerospace engineering, physics, or a closely related field. Essential skills include solid knowledge of physical and analytical chemistry (phase changes), computer science and informatics (numerical analysis, simulation, optimization, modeling tools, CFD), product and process engineering (space engineering), condensed matter physics (fluid mechanics and dynamics), and applied physics (atmospheric entry flows). Candidates must demonstrate the ability to work efficiently and independently in a diverse, interdisciplinary, and multicultural environment, as well as strong teamwork and problem-solving skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are required. Applicants must be eligible to enroll in a PhD program at TU Dresden. Willingness to travel for secondments and events is necessary. Desired skills include knowledge in EcoDesign, climate sciences, life-cycle assessments, project management, and knowledge of the host institution's language. Candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Germany for more than 12 months in the 36 months before recruitment (MSCA Mobility Rule) and must not have been awarded a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment.
How to apply
Submit a single PDF containing the application form, cover letter, evidence-based CV, reference letters or contacts, educational and professional certificates, and a short motivation video (max 30 seconds) via email to [email protected] with the subject 'Application for DC9 position'. Ensure the total email size does not exceed 30 MB. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
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