PhD position - Developing drone- trace gas observations

PhD position - Developing drone-based trace gas observations with modelling-based emission verification

The goals that this project is pursuing are highly societally relevant. Applicants can contribute to the identification and quantification of atmospheric sources of greenhouse gases and ozone-depleting substances; while at the same time being at the forefront of technology development through work with drones, ultra-sensitive sampling and detection systems, and local-scale near real-time modelling. The work will be carried out at the Institute for Climate and Energy Systems:
Stratosphere (ICE-4) and Troposphere (ICE-3). We study chemical, microphysical and dynamical processes in the atmosphere and the role they play in the climate system and air pollution.

We are seeking a new Ph.D. student in the ''Ultra Trace gases'' group (ICE-4) to establish and perform drone-borne measurements of various trace gases using air sampling techniques in combination with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The modelling activities of the PhD project will be integrated in the "Air Quality and Emission Optimization" group (ICE-3) and aim at expanding the group's modelling system to assess the emission strengths of ozone-depleting substances.

The Ph.D. work also offers the opportunity to participate in the Graduate School HITEC ().

• Developing drone-mounted sensors for sample collection and measurement of greenhouse gases and ozone-depleting substances
• Deploying drone technology in the field to quantify facility-scale emissions
• Estimating emissions using the high-resolution EURAD-IM chemistry transport model
• Contribute to REIGN-MP, a major EU project building resilient monitoring networks to support the Montreal Protocol
• Strengthen international governance and transition from fragmented monitoring to a globally coordinated system
• Secure critical vulnerabilities by helping establish a European Calibration Centre
• Test lower-cost technologies and integrate them into existing global networks
• Enhance data transparency to improve observation-derived indicators for policy and compliance

• Hold an MSc in chemistry, physics, environmental sciences, meteorology, or a related field (German grade 2.0 or better)
• Demonstrate very good skills in experimental work and/or modeling (essential)
• Bring experience with drones, GC systems, or trace gas observations (desirable)
• Possess solid programming skills (e.g., Python) for data analysis (helpful)
• Apply anyway even if you do not meet all criteria, as missing skills can be taught during induction

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We support you in your work with:

• Team & Environment:
  You will work in a motivated team with an international and interdisciplinary focus – at one of the largest research institutions in Europe
• Research & Infrastructure:
  You will have access to excellent scientific and technical facilities for your work
• Networking & Exchange:
  You will participate in (international) conferences and project meetings and actively build your scientific network
• Supervision & Support:
  We will accompany your doctoral studies with continuous, expert guidance from your academic supervisor
• Work-life balance:
  We offer flexible working hours to help you balance your professional and personal life. You also have the option of flexible working (in terms of location), which is generally possible after consultation and in line with upcoming tasks and (on-site) appointments
• Annual Leave:
  You get 30 days of annual leave
• Knowledge & Development:
  Your professional development is important to us – we support you specifically and individually e.g., through…