PhD Position in Carbon Chemistry: Join Dr. Niels Ligterink’s group at TU Delft for a laboratory-based PhD project investigating carbon chemistry on the surfaces of Galilean moons (Europa, Ganymede, and Calisto). The research aims to unravel the origin of carbon-bearing molecules through simulations and experiments. The findings will contribute to space exploration missions and ongoing observational efforts.
PhD Position in Carbon Chemistry on the Surfaces of the Galilean Ice Moons
Designation: PhD Candidate
Research Area: Carbon Chemistry on Galilean Ice Moons
Location: TU Delft, Delft, Netherlands
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Master’s degree or equivalent in relevant field (planetary science, chemistry, physics, astronomy) by the starting date.
- Strong background in laboratory experiments and techniques relevant to the position (e.g., vacuum technology, spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, cryogenics, radiation sources).
- Good coding skills are a plus.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Job Description:
- Conduct laboratory studies with the ICEBEAR setup to simulate destruction and formation of carbon-bearing molecules on the surfaces of Galilean moons.
- Analyze data to interpret current observations and guide future space exploration missions.
- Active participation in the scientific community at TU Delft and related departments.
- Teaching assistant assignments and supervision of BSc. and MSc. students.
- Presentation of scientific results at national and international conferences.
- Possibility to be involved in space instrument development, Lunar & cometary science, and/or telescope observations.
Conditions of Employment:
- 4-year period of employment with 2 contracts, subject to progress assessments.
- Salary and benefits in accordance with Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
- Enrolment in TU Delft Graduate School for Doctoral Education Programme.
How to Apply:
- Submit an online application via the application button.
- Include a cover letter/personal statement, CV, and full list/transcripts of all university-level courses.
- All application material should be in English (except transcripts).
- Application deadline: March 21, 2024.
Contact: For questions about the position and application procedure, contact Niels Ligterink (niels.ligterink@unibe.ch).
Last Date for Apply: March 21, 2024
Note: Pre-employment screening may be part of the selection procedure. Applications sent by email and/or post will not be processed. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified for interviews.