[ES_JOBS_NET] PhD position (3y) on dust research in Darmstadt, Germany

[Konrad Kandler]

The Institute for Applied Geosciences at the Technical University Darmstadt
invites applications for a

PhD position (m/f/d) in Atmospheric Science

funded within the project

Unraveling Saharan DUST Outflow: Insights into Mineralogy, Size, Shape, 
Optical Properties And Regional Climate Impact through Novel 
Observations and Modeling (DUSTIMPACT)

by the German Research Foundation (DFG, Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft).


The DUSTIMPACT project seeks to advance our understanding of atmospheric 
mineral dust and its significant impacts on the Earth’s climate system. 
Specifically, it aims to quantify the particle size distribution, shape 
and mixing state, mineralogical composition as well as optical 
properties and radiative effects of Saharan dust in the key outflow 
regions. In particular we will assess the largest particle properties, 
which have hardly been considered to date. These dust properties play a 
crucial role in determining the aerosol’s impact on solar and 
terrestrial radiation, and consequently, its contribution to climate 
variability. By combining cutting-edge and novel measurements with 
advanced modeling, the project addresses critical uncertainties 
surrounding dust transport, the resulting atmospheric interactions, and 
its broader climate impact.

The successful candidate will work in the subproject

New Synergistic Observations for Enhanced Understanding of Saharan DUST 
Outflow PROperties (DUSTPRO).

DUSTPRO is dedicated to detailed measurements of dust properties using 
established methods (e.g., size spectrometry, filter collection with 
electron microscopy) as well as innovative approaches (e.g., 
holography). The candidate will carry out field measurements with 
existing instrumentation, perform electron microscopy analyses, and 
contribute to the development of a new holographic size spectrometry 
technique.

The position offers the opportunity to pursue a PhD degree at Technische 
Universität Darmstadt. Supervision will be provided by Prof. Dr. Kandler 
in collaboration with partners at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology 
(KIT) and / or the Barcelona Supercomputing Center. The candidate will 
join the Atmospheric Aerosol working group at the Institute for Applied 
Geosciences. TU Darmstadt offers structured networking and support 
programs for PhD students.

Requirements
* Master’s degree in Physics, Meteorology, Mechanical or Electrical 
Engineering, Geosciences, or Environmental Sciences.
* Strong background in experimental work and data analysis.
* Experience with programming languages is desirable.
* Fluency in English (spoken and written).
* Willingness and ability to carry out fieldwork, including repair and 
maintenance of equipment, at field sites in Spain and Austria.

What we offer
* The opportunity to work on an internationally visible and 
scientifically relevant research project funded by the DFG.
* Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, including electron 
microscopy.
* Fieldwork campaigns in Spain and Austria with close collaboration 
between international research partners.
* Structured doctoral training and networking opportunities through TU 
Darmstadt’s graduate programs.
* A supportive, interdisciplinary, and diverse research environment 
within the Atmospheric Aerosol working group and the Institute for 
Applied Geosciences.
* Opportunities for research stays and collaboration with partners at 
the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and the Barcelona 
Supercomputing Center.

Employment conditions
* Fixed-term position for 3 years.
* Place of employment: Darmstadt.
* Targeted starting date: 1 January 2026.
* The position is offered as a 75% position at TV-TUDa E13.

Applications procedure
Please send your application as a single PDF file to 
kandler at geo.tu-darmstadt.de, including:
* motivation letter
* CV
* copies of relevant certificates
* preferred starting date
* names and contact details of at least two references, in case you had 
a close collaboration (e.g. during the master thesis).

Review of applications will begin on 15 November 2025 and continue until 
the position is filled.
For further information, please contact kandler at geo.tu-darmstadt.de

Equal opportunity statement
The Institute for Applied Geosciences actively supports equality, 
diversity, and inclusion. As an equal opportunity employer, it 
explicitly encourages applications from women and from all individuals 
who will contribute to the diversity of the university’s research and 
teaching. Applicants with disabilities will be given preferential 
consideration if equally qualified.

We look forward to your application!


Notes on Data Protection
https://www.tu-darmstadt.de/datenschutzerklaerung.en.jsp