Researcher / graduate student position on

Small solar system objects

Three-year fixed-term position, Salary Level EG 13 TV-L, 100%

The Institute of Geophysics and Extraterrestrial Physics of the Technische Universität Braunschweig is looking to fill a researcher position (salary group 13 TV-L, 100%) as part of Prof. Jessica Agarwal’s research group, starting in spring 2027 for a period of three years.

The position will offer the possibility to work towards obtaining a doctoral degree from the Technische Universität Braunschweig and join the International Max Planck Research School for Solar System Science at the University of Göttingen and at TU Braunschweig. Applications by persons at post-doctoral level are also welcome.

The successful applicant is expected to carry out research on small solar system objects, publish the results in relevant refereed journals, present them at international meetings, and to teach Bachelor and Master students (4h per week per semester). The detailed topic of research is to some extent flexible and will be discussed and agreed upon during the application process. In particular for pre-doctoral candidates, the future supervisor can also suggest possible projects. Inquiries for details on the position are welcome and should be addressed to Jessica Agarwal (contact details below).

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field, and combine dedication to scientific work with the ability to work in a self-organised and efficient way. Good command of written and spoken English is required. Familiarity with programming and/or data analysis will be advantageous. For the teaching, knowledge of German or the willingness to learn it will be a strong asset.

Applications should include

1. a cover letter including the proposed starting date,
2. a description of proposed research (at least for postdoctoral applicants),
3. a description of previous research (e.g., for a Bachelor and/or Master thesis in case of pre-doctoral applicants),
4. curriculum vitae, addressing also previous employment in German public service,
5. a publication list if applicable,
6. and the contact information of two potential referees.

The advertised position is intended to further the applicant’s academic qualification. The employment is intended to last for three years. A prerequisite for appointment is therefore that, at the time of appointment, the applicant can still be employed for at least three years within the statutory maximum fixed-term period as set out in Section 2(1) of the German law WissZeitVG. This is relevant for individuals who have previously been employed as researchers in Germany.

Applications must be sent by email as a single pdf file to Jessica Agarwal ( j.agarwal@tu-braunschweig.de). Review of applications will begin on November 16, 2026, and continue until the position is filled.

Remuneration is in accordance with the collective agreement TV-L, pay grade E13 (100%), including 30 days of vacation per year. Social security benefits will be in accordance with public service regulations.

The Institute of Geophysics and Extraterrestrial Physics offers an active and interdisciplinary scientific environment with an open and collaborative atmosphere. Key research areas include Laboratory Astrophysics, Planet Formation, Space Physics, Applied Geophysics, and Small Body Astronomy and Exploration.

With about 15 000 students and 3 800 employees, Technische Universität Braunschweig is one of Germany´s leading institutes of technology. We offer flexible working and part-time options, and a family-friendly university culture. We welcome applicants of all nationalities. We encourage people with severe disabilities to apply. Applications from severely disabled persons will be given preference if they are equally qualified. Please attach a proof of disability to your application. We are also working on the fulfilment of the Central Equality Plan based on the Lower Saxony Equal Rights Act (Niedersächsisches Gleichberechtigungsgesetz—NGG) and strive to reduce under-representation in all areas and positions as defined by the NGG. In this case, applications from women are particularly welcome.

The personal data will be stored for the purpose of processing the application. By submitting your application, you agree that your data may be stored and processed electronically for application purposes in compliance with the provisions of data protection law. Further information on data protection can be found in our data protection regulations at https://www.tu-braunschweig.de/datenschutzerklaerung-bewerbungen. Application costs cannot be reimbursed.

Full contact information:

Prof. Dr. Jessica Agarwal

Institute of Geophysics and Extraterrestrial Physics, Technische Universität Braunschweig

Mendelssohnstr. 3, D-38106 Braunschweig

Phone: +49 531 391 5249

Email: j.agarwal@tu-braunschweig.de