Postdoc Optical Alignment Systems Optical Ground Stations Laser Satellite Communications

Laser satellite communication is an emerging technology with strong potential for future high‑capacity data transmission, particularly for intersatellite links. In this post‑doctoral position you will develop and demonstrate innovative alignment methods for optical ground stations, contributing to improving the stability and reliability of free‑space optical communication links.

• Investigate alignment systems for optical ground stations used in laser satellite communications.
• Develop an alignment method between the receiving and transmitting channels that can mitigate the effects of vibrations, thermal fluctuations, and finite mechanical tolerances.
• Contribute to the realization of a laboratory setup to demonstrate and validate the proposed method.
• Collaborate within the Free Space Optical Communications group and the Space Instrumentation section of the Space Engineering Department.

• PhD degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field, or scheduled doctoral defence.
• Demonstrated experience in experimental research.
• Proven experience with the alignment of optical systems in a laboratory or research setting.
• Experience in the field of optical communications.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English (minimum B2, preferably C1/C2).
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Security screening may be part of the selection procedure.

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4‑year period of employment, typically in two contracts: an initial 1.5‑year contract with a progress assessment after 15 months, followed by a contract for the remaining 2.5 years, contingent on performance.

Salary is aligned with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, ranging from €3,546 to €5,538 gross per month over the four years, based on a full‑time contract (38 hours). Additional benefits include 8 % holiday allowance, an end‑of‑year bonus of 8.3 %, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work‑costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.