Postdoc in Remote Sensing for Analysing Flow Physics of Offshore Wind Farm Clusters ForWind - Center for Wind Energy Research in Germany

This postdoctoral position at the Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, within the ForWind - Center for Wind Energy Research, offers an exciting opportunity to advance the scientific application of remote sensing techniques for analysing flow physics in large offshore wind farm clusters. The research is crucial for the future of energy systems, focusing on understanding energy conversion processes under various meteorological and grid conditions to support the expansion of offshore wind energy. The position is based in the WindLab, a modern research facility, and provides a dynamic, multidisciplinary academic environment with strong links to industry and international partners.

The successful candidate will develop and validate improvements in the design and operation of offshore wind farm clusters using scanning lidar, radar, and synthetic aperture radar (SAR). Key responsibilities include developing scanning strategies, analysing virtual measurements in numerical wind fields, investigating cluster wake mitigation strategies, and studying atmospheric phenomena such as coherent structures, wind ramps, low-level jets, and turbulent–nonturbulent transitions. The role also involves enhancing forecasting methods, implementing real-time forecasting algorithms, supporting offshore measurement campaigns, and processing large datasets by integrating remote sensing, meteorological, and operational wind farm data.

Collaboration is central to this position, with opportunities to work closely with wind farm operators, researchers from various fields, and partner institutions such as Fraunhofer IWES and the German Aerospace Center (DLR). The research group is internationally recognised for its work in wind physics, turbulence modelling, and the control of wind turbines and wind farms. Facilities include three turbulent wind tunnels, equipment for free-field measurements, and a high-performance computing cluster, enabling comprehensive experimental and simulation-based research.

The position is funded for three years, with remuneration according to the TV-L E13 collective agreement for the German public service (100% position). Additional benefits include 30 days vacation, company pension scheme, flexible working hours, health management, further training opportunities, and a family-friendly working environment with on-campus childcare. The university actively supports the career development of female scientists and candidates with disabilities.

Applicants must hold a PhD in physical or engineering sciences, or a master’s degree in Physical Science, Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, Renewable Energy, or equivalent. Required skills include experience in handling and analysing large datasets, statistical analysis, measurement techniques, uncertainty estimation, forecasting methods, machine learning, and programming in Python. High motivation, teamwork skills, and fluency in English are essential.

To apply, submit your application as a single PDF file (including motivation letter, CV, transcripts, diplomas, and references) by 31 January 2026 to [email protected], referencing #AP124. Optionally, include a second PDF with your PhD thesis and relevant research papers. For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Martin Kühn at [email protected]. More details about the research group and facilities can be found at Wind Energy Systems and ForWind.