PhD Position in Theory and Modelling of Astrophysics and Atmospheric Physics
With more than 6,300 employees in research, teaching, and administration, TU Dortmund University shapes prospects for the future. The cooperation between engineering and natural sciences as well as social and cultural studies promotes both technological innovations and progress in knowledge and methodology. Over 32,500 students benefit from this interdisciplinary approach.
The group "Theory and Modelling of Astrophysics and Atmospheric Physics" at TU Dortmund University, Germany, invites applications for a full-time PhD position under the supervision of Dr. Christoph Köhn. This position focuses on studying the effect of energetic radiation from thunderstorms on avionics as part of the Horizon Europe MSCA DN project GRAIL ("Gamma Radiation from the Atmosphere for Investigation and Learning"). The position is funded for 3 years, with a start date of September 1, 2026, or as negotiated. Payment is according to EU rules on Doctoral Networks.
This PhD project is one of 15 GRAIL PhD projects across Europe, with three based at TU Dortmund. More information about GRAIL is available at grail.physik.tu-dortmund.de.
Your Tasks:
Simulate the propagation of relativistic photons and electrons from thunderstorm source altitudes to aircraft cruising altitudes.
Model the production of secondary energetic particles (positrons, neutrons, protons) in the atmosphere.
Use particle Monte Carlo codes and the Geant4 toolkit to study interactions between energetic particles and avionics.
Quantify risks and failure probabilities of avionics systems exposed to high-energy atmospheric radiation.
Participate in laboratory experiments at industry partners to validate simulation results and study radiation effects on electronic components.
What We Offer:
A high-profile research environment with extensive interaction opportunities within the Horizon Europe GRAIL network.
Funding for attending international conferences.
Personal development opportunities through transferable skills training offered by the GRAIL network.
Extensive training via summer/winter schools, online seminars, and PhD courses.
Secondments at DENA Desarrollos (high-voltage laboratory experiments) and the Technical University of Denmark (DTU).
Your Profile:
Master’s degree in physics, electronics, computational physics, atmospheric science, or a closely related field.
Experience in scientific programming and numerical simulations.
Familiarity with Monte Carlo particle simulations and/or Geant4 is an advantage.
Interest in atmospheric electricity, high-energy radiation, and avionics resilience.
Application Details:
TU Dortmund University promotes diversity and equal opportunities. Applications from women will be given preferential treatment in accordance with legal regulations. Applications from suitable severely disabled persons are encouraged.
Mobility Rule: Candidates must not have resided in Germany for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to recruitment (and not have carried out their main activity in Germany during that period).
How to Apply:
Submit a complete application as a PDF file, including:
A cover letter
CV
Publication list
A list of potential referees willing to provide a letter of recommendation
Send your application using the reference number w15-26.
Apply below!
