Postdoc Distributed Spaceborne Radar Systems

Join us at TU Delft to reshape the future of spaceborne radar systems in the Netherlands!

Job description

Spaceborne radar systems has proven to be effective tools for broader applications from high-resolution imaging to altimetry. In TU Delft, we are openning a 2-year postdoctoral researcher position to advance this promising field. The position is part of NL-RIA 2.0, the Dutch network on small spaceborne radar instruments and application, after the successful NL-RIA 1.0 project. Funded by the Netherlands Space Agency (NLSA), NL-RIA 2.0 will maintain the existing focus of NL-RIA on breakthrough technologies to implement miniaturized radar missions with the recent technology advancement and trends in low-cost distributed space systems.

The position will require you to work closely with NL-RIA partners, to derive high-level user requirements of two classes of radar instruments, i.e. distributed SAR and near-nadir looking interferometric imager, to evaluate various fractionated space systems on their suitability as radar instruments, and to develop system requirements and the system concepts. You will also play a key role in supporting the NL-RIA 2.0 network by contributing to the organisation of network support activities, including the market survey and technolgies/ applications inventory, proposal preparation, internal/external coordination meetings, and international workshops.

You will work at TU Delft premise, primarily within the Section of Space Systems Engineering (SSE). SSE is dedicated to the broad range of end-to-end spacecraft engineering, with focuses on distributed and miniaturised space systems.

Job requirements

We look forward to dynamic candidates that want to get their hands onto a real mission and bring a contribution to society. You also have:

• A PhD in engineering (aerospace engineering, electronics or related fields)
• You have proven experience in space mission design and space systems engineering, ideally in distributed space systems including formation flying or in-orbit assembly.
• You have basic knowledge on Earth observation or radar technologies, ideally with experience in the field of radar-based observation.
• Ideally, you have direct experience in project management involving multiple entities.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional. Working at TU Delft means join an international community of professionals and students.

Faculty Aerospace Engineering

The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is a leading international community where innovation in aerospace meets global challenges. Our support and scientific staff, including PhD candidates, postdocs, and students, largely work together on three main themes: the energy transition, sustainable aerospace, and safety and security, with the aim of tackling climate change and contributing to the independence and security of Europe.

When you join us, you become part of a diverse, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and perspectives are valued. Our work extends beyond the lab—into field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, both locally and globally.

You don’t just join our faculty — you join a community where you can thrive, grow, and help shape the future of aerospace.

Conditions of employment

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