About the opportunity
The Institute of Geophysics and Meteorology at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences of the University of Cologne invites applications for a postdoctoral position in microwave radiometry of clouds on the HALO research aircraft. The role is part of the TOPAICC project, which investigates Arctic ice clouds and their role in airmass transformation and the polar energy budget using novel submillimeter radiometry. The successful candidate will prepare and participate in Arctic airborne campaigns based in Kiruna, Sweden, develop training datasets and machine-learning retrieval methods, investigate cloud-phase transitions, and collaborate with international partners. The position begins on 1 February 2027 and is fixed-term until 31 July 2030.
Salary and benefits
- Position in an internationally well-established working group with state-of-the-art research facilities
- Diverse working environment with equal opportunities
- Support in balancing work and family life
- Extensive advanced training opportunities
- Occupational health management offers
- Flexible working time models
- Opportunity to work remotely
- Salary based on remuneration group 13 TV-L of the pay scale for the German public sector, subject to relevant wage requirements and personal qualifications
Who can apply?
- A PhD in atmospheric science, meteorology, physics, geophysics, remote sensing, or a closely related field
- Experience with microwave/submillimeter remote sensing, cloud observations, radiative transfer, or atmospheric modelling
- Experience in atmospheric field campaigns, including instrument operation, campaign preparation, data acquisition, and/or quality control
- Strong programming and scientific data-analysis skills, preferably in Python
- Willingness to participate actively in airborne field campaigns, including campaign preparation, research flights, instrument operation, flight planning, and subsequent data analysis
Required documents
- Proof of required qualifications
- Online application without photo
When to apply
- Application deadline: 25 October 2026
- Position start date: 1 February 2027
How to apply
- Prepare application documents without photo
- Submit the application online via the University of Cologne job portal at https://jobportal.uni-koeln.de referencing Wiss2609-13
Additional information
- Reference number: Wiss2609-13
- Full-time position (39.83 hours per week)
- Women will be considered preferentially in accordance with the Equal Opportunities Act of North Rhine-Westphalia (LGG NRW)
- For inquiries, contact Dr Mario Mech (mario.mech@uni-koeln.de) or Professor Dr Susanne Crewell (susanne.crewell@uni-koeln.de)
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Researchers holding a PhD in meteorology, physics, atmospheric science, or a related discipline who want to bridge airborne observations and climate modeling
- Candidates with practical background in Python programming, radiative transfer models, or microwave remote sensing data
- Scientists enthusiastic about joining international field campaigns, including airborne research flights based in Kiruna, Sweden
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is fixed-term until July 2030, meaning long-term employment security beyond the project timeline is not guaranteed
- Active participation in Arctic airborne campaigns involving travel and deployment is a mandatory core requirement
- Applicants must meet specific public sector wage qualification criteria to attain the targeted TV-L remuneration group
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This postdoctoral position provides an exceptional opportunity for early-career researchers aiming to establish a strong publication record in atmospheric remote sensing, lead retrieval algorithm development, and work directly with cutting-edge aircraft instrumentation within an established consortium.
Our take
Strongly recommended for postdoctoral researchers with a background in atmospheric remote sensing and a willingness to participate in demanding field campaigns. Less suitable for candidates who prefer entirely office-based or non-traveling academic roles.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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